![University Library / OFFICE Kersten Geers David Van Severen - Table, Chair, Lighting](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/591d/8fc6/e58e/cef3/1700/0019/newsletter/078-2015_BP_OFFICEkgdvs_bieb_13_2__pub_file__24_x_32_400_dpi_rgb98.jpg?1495109570)
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Architects: OFFICE Kersten Geers David Van Severen
- Area: 285 m²
- Year: 2014
![University Library / OFFICE Kersten Geers David Van Severen - Table, Steel](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/591d/8ff9/e58e/ce9f/9e00/001f/newsletter/078-2015_BP_OFFICEkgdvs_bieb_03__pub_file__24_x_32_400_dpi_rgb98.jpg?1495109621)
Text description provided by the architects. The new library for the faculty of Architecture and Urbanism of the University of Ghent can be considered a large, pavillion-like piece of furniture, inserted under the bacony of the existing Physics hall. The accessible, three-storied cupboard forms a complete perimeter around the central, atrium-like space, enforcing its monumental scale. Both the lendable collection as well as the more precious books which can only be consulted, are presented visibly around it.
![](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/591d/902e/e58e/ce9f/9e00/0022/newsletter/_office78-library-press_kit_2_copy.jpg?1495109674)
![](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/591d/9020/e58e/ce9f/9e00/0021/newsletter/_office78-library-press_kit_2.jpg?1495109660)
The perimeter of cupboards, realised completely as a bolted construction of prefabricated steel elements, contains passages, stairs, desks and corridors, and organises both the library itself as the access to the multiple backof ces and auxiliary functions. A system of vertically sliding, perforated panels allows for the cupboards to be closed off, protecting the collection during lectures and other events, while keeping it visually present.
![University Library / OFFICE Kersten Geers David Van Severen - Shelving](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/591d/8fd1/e58e/ce9f/9e00/001c/medium_jpg/078-2015_BP_OFFICEkgdvs_bieb_09__pub_file__24_x_32_400_dpi_rgb98.jpg?1495109580)
![University Library / OFFICE Kersten Geers David Van Severen - Image 5 of 10](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/591d/8fdb/e58e/cef3/1700/001a/medium_jpg/078-2015_BP_OFFICEkgdvs_bieb_08__pub_file__24_x_32_400_dpi_rgb98.jpg?1495109590)