The volume composition of the NUK II University Library is formed as a group of three volumes set on top of an elevated plateau hovering above the excavations. Designed by SANGRAD Architects, AVP Arhitekti, and Biro Arhitekti, this unity of forms also means a unity of space, function and organization. Within the existing roman structure (which is understood as geometrical and spatial order, urban definition and direction), the archaeological grid becomes the base of the library functional scheme and the excavations are actively transferred to the future architectural assembly. More images and architects’ description after the break.
The square, which is a programmatically necessary space of a public building in this case, is being located under the building along the ancient streets F and H. The original walls of the archaeological excavations determine the depression of the square and its connection to the city streets Zoisova and Emonska (main entrances to the building). The passage through the building (planned by the project) thus becomes an active plaza, to be reached from all sides. A service entrance is envisaged from Rimska street. A bus station in the Zoisova street has been planned next to the South-West fringe of the land plot, while the South-East has been taken by the impluvium reconstruction. On Zoisova street there are also additional city bus lane, cycling lane and tree line. Emonska street has been planed as a shared space with a tree line along both sides of the road (extension of Plečnik`s green avenue). 12 car parking spaces for library urgent needs are located along Emonska street while bicycle parking spaces are located along both Emonska and Zoisova street and in the back of the library.
