Six architectural concepts to have advanced to Stage Two in The Heart of the Metropolis, the architectural competition for the design of the new Helsinki Central Library, will be on display at the Art Museum Meilahti from March 23 to April 5.
The six concepts were first selected in November 2012 from over 540 works originally received. The competitors have now had three months to refine their work further, along the guidelines provided by the jury. The works will still be displayed under aliases.
The Finnish public library system is unique
Chairperson of the jury, deputy mayor in charge of personnel and cultural affairs, Ritva Viljanen, considers the Central Library project to be of importance not just to Helsinki residents, but to all of Finland.
The Finnish public library system is unique. One does not see this level of library usage, or such an importance given to libraries elsewhere. This must be appreciated and further developed, says Viljanen, who will be opening the exhibition.
The Central Library will provide the free public spaces the residents of the city have long hoped for.
The Central Library is seen as a public building open to all, a cradle for civilization, a new Sampo which creates welfare and know-how, and improves possibilities for participatory citizen action.
The jury will select a winner from the six concepts now on show. The winner will be announced in June 2013.
Comments and votes welcome
The six different concepts can be commented on both at the actual exhibition and online. There are also city screens located in several locations around Helsinki, where it is possible to vote for one’s favourite concept. The opinion of the public will be introduced to the jury and also published online.
Relax in the pop-up-library!
The exhibition area also contains a pop-up library, complete with reading chairs, where it is possible to familiarize oneself with library services of the future.
In the pop-up library everyone can choose a reading chair to suit his or her taste. The chairs come with fun intellectual “snacks”: activities, stories and information, says Viljanen.
- The exhibition is open in the Art Museum Meilahti (Tamminiementie 6) from March 23 to April 5. Opening hours Noob to 7 pm. On Easter weekend (March 29 to April 1) the exhibition is closed. Free entrance.
Join us!