The Oberkirch Media Centre
Forget all about mahogany king-size tables dimly lit by vintage abet jour lamps, comfortable, luxurious armchairs and books covered in colorful embroidered leather; the 21st century library has become a contemporary architectural statement exhibiting highly increased functionality and a fusion of sophisticated media devices.
The Oberkirch Media Centre in Germany is a perfect example illustrating how the perception of a library has been reshaped by the demands of today’s fast-pacing society. The place is a complex three-storey building serving as a town archive, a library, a media center and also a place hosting various events. The Wurm+Wurm design team outdid themselves with this ambitious, futuristic, yet still operative project. Aimed towards architectural innovation, whilst keeping to the user-friendly interface, the Center was an unmitigated success!
When faced with the bizarrely sculptural, contrasting façade, any viewer would reasonably question himself what this building hosts. The odd exterior induces an overall feeling of rigidness through an eclectic mix of unorthodox cuts and corners, rounded structures and suspended terraces. Further, the all-white walls enhance the perfection of the design, making it appear even more imposing and impenetrable. However, on a second look, the crystal clear windows provide the viewer with a mischievous sneak peak to the bright, colorful interior. The alluring glimpse of the other side warmly invites you to explore the intricate labyrinth within.
So, as for the inner design, the first thing one will notice is how spacious, completely uncluttered and very well organized everything is. This deeply contributes to creating a relaxed, airy, Zen atmosphere. Moreover, despite the fact that there is plenty of room between book stalls, individual study places and reading areas on all three levels, not even one square meter is being wasted. For instance, the stories are interconnected by an ample, spiraling staircase -considered to be ‘le piece de resistance’ of the center, due to its organic, flowing finishing-, in order to fully exploit the remaining space among floors. The roof is pierced with mammoth round windows, with the purpose of making extensive use of natural light. The corridors, mostly illuminated by sunlight due to the ingeniously designed lateral glass structures and balconies, serve also as reading areas. Last but not least, the children’s special designated area is another avant-garde, yet utilitarian, statement, through the multi-use positioning of furniture and the eccentric design.
Having started as a project in 2007, it took the constructing team three years of hard work to finish this grand piece of contemporary architecture. Through its dual nature and contrasting elements, the building has incited numerous architects and design aficionados all over the world in the past year, gaining it widespread appreciation. As Oberkirch Media Center is regarded as one of the most fascinating modern libraries in Europe, the public is ardently expecting the future projects of Wurm+Wurm!
