The site is situated in Southeast Portland's Lents area, which boasts of a diverse community. In the downtown Lents area, there are numerous residential buildings and retail spaces in proximity to the site. The site's location is behind a Max station, which makes it easily accessible. Notably, Lents has a rich history of food production, and traditional farming is prevalent in the area. The community comprises families with children, homeless people, and individuals from different cultures and countries, including Asian, Hispanic, and Black, making it more diverse than Portland.
During my visit, I discovered that the community lacks inclusive community centers, and the existing centers are specific to particular ethnic backgrounds. Although there are group communities for each ethnic background, there is no space where people from all cultural and ethnic backgrounds can feel accommodated and comfortable together. To address this gap, I conceptualized an inclusive public space that would bring together people from different backgrounds. My model represents the various ethnic and cultural backgrounds, including locals and those from other backgrounds, and my main objectives were to build community identity and connections.
When contemplating the Future Library, my initial musings centered on the question of whether we will continue to read printed books or switch exclusively to electronic ones in the years ahead. Furthermore, I wondered how architecture will evolve in response to the rapid technological advancements and the plethora of new gadgets being introduced into our daily lives. Given the constant influx of new technologies, we must account for their impact on architectural design as well.
The following diagrams illustrate the process I used to arrive at this particular design. As previously mentioned, I took into consideration the proximity of the Max station to the site and decided to implement a significant change by creating a new pedestrian pathway that connects the Max station to the neighborhood, and vice versa. This change allowed me to create a central courtyard that would serve as a gathering place for all communities, providing an inclusive and international space.
The circular building may reduce frame loads and pedestrian-level winds.
Creates a rounded shape, improving aerodynamics and pedestrian experience.
The gradient diagram shows a gradual decrease in noise levels as one moves up through the floors of the building. The topmost level is designed as a tranquil space intended for a private reading library. In designing this library for the future, technology was leveraged to address human issues.
On the ground floor, I envisioned a space where individuals from different linguistic backgrounds could engage in discussions. The cultural event auditorium and the lobby gallery are also located on the lively ground floor. The first floor is devoted to showcasing technology and its applications, while the second floor is designated for classrooms and meeting rooms. Finally, the top floor provides a quiet haven for uninterrupted reading and study.
I hold the belief that every individual is akin to a book, particularly those who hail from diverse parts of the world. Such individuals have the potential to learn from one another and exchange knowledge.
To facilitate this exchange, the library will employ a translator system that can interpret languages from and into any language. Additionally, an urban plaza situated at the heart of the library will serve as both a gathering spot and a connector between the Max station and the neighborhood.
The design also incorporates the use of natural light, as the courtyard and inner facade allow for the penetration of daylight, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere within the library.
My design concept prioritizes flexibility, which translates to minimal use of permanent walls. Instead, I aim to create a versatile space with movable walls, which can be adjusted to meet various needs. To facilitate this, I have included significant storage space on each level for equipment storage.
In light of the homeless and immigrant population residing in the neighborhood, I have also incorporated a space dedicated to providing them with essential services, such as social workers.
Additionally, the lobby gallery serves a crucial role in informing people arriving at the neighborhood via the Max station. It can function as an indoor gallery space, showcasing local events and activities, thereby raising awareness about the happenings in the neighborhood.
Ground Floor
-There are an inside gallery and auditorium on the ground floor.
-There are a lot of flexible walls and furniture. We don’t know how big the future furniture is and how much space we need.
-This is another space where people manage the VR systems provided on this floor.
First Floor
Second Floor
I opted to use a hydroponic system for irrigating the plants in the library as it serves as an educational tool for teaching visitors about sustainable agricultural practices.
The design features details that have been meticulously incorporated into the outdoor balconies and indoor green wall systems, which contribute to the overall aesthetics of the library.
Third Floor
The integration of vegetation in the balconies and the central green area of the library serves a dual purpose of enhancing the aesthetics of the space and reducing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. The indoor vertical green equipment also contributes to this effort.
Furthermore, the library design incorporates a rainwater harvesting system, which can be utilized for watering the green areas, promoting sustainable water management practices
The design of the library includes expanding existing sidewalks to provide more space for pedestrians, parklets, food carts, bike lanes, jogging lanes, transit lanes, and travel lanes. This will create a welcoming and sustainable transportation environment for visitors to the library.
