INTRODUCTION The National Library of Sejong is the first branch facility of the National Library of Korea and is planned to be built in the Multifunctional Administrative City of Korea, also known as Sejong City. Designed by Samoo Architects & Engineers with the motif of a book page being turned over, a simple geometry of a gently curved paper forms the basis of the design and creates a unique outline that is easily recognizable as one of the landmark buildings of the city. As one of the strategies in designing the building, the library was also planned to become an Emotional Library, a place where analogue and digital formats converge for the convenience of the users and to maximize the possibilities of the library.
MASTERPLAN With the government led initiative to relocate the majority of central government agencies to the newly createdSejong City, there was an immediate need for a new national library. Because of the library’s dual-role serving both the government officials and the local citizens, the library was to be located between the government complex and the Sejonglake. With maximum accessibility from various locations, the facility is planned to become an open library with a commanding view of the beautiful scenery provided by the lake.
FLOOR PLAN Approaching the library, visitors will be welcomed by the open plaza created by the gently lifted mass of the library. Inside the library, an expansive open space starting with the lobby provides spatial connectivity throughout the library which also helps users in way-finding. Reading areas are located mainly on the 1st and 2nd floor with open layouts & easy accessibilities. Seminar rooms & conference facilities are located on the 3rd floor while the upper-most floors provide dining facilities & roof-top terraces with open view of the surroundings. The splendid view of the lake introduced inside the building creates an ultimate atmosphere for library users with dedicated reading zones. Children reading zones are located on the lower floors to minimize noise while providing a direct access route to the playground outside the building.
TECHNOLOGIES Due to the unique shape and geometry of the building, the project was initiated with BIM (Building Information Modeling) from the beginning. Major structural elements such as slab, columns, and cores were modeled with BIM in order to confirm the viability of the required programs as well as constructability. BIM provided solutions to pre-construction simulations of interoperability among various disciplines and manufacturing of unique panels and curtain wall systems that was fundamental to the unique geometries of this project.
Planned to become a major resource & support facility to the newly relocated central government complex, the library will serve for the government as well as the local citizens.As a unique landmark facility, the library will become an important asset to the city providing a platform for research& interaction.
