São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects

São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Chair, Table, BeamSão Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Shelving, LightingSão Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Table, ChairSão Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Facade, GardenSão Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - More Images+ 11

São Paulo, Brazil
  • Collaborator: Paula Homsi
  • Coordinator: Flavia Marcondes
  • Visual Identity: Univers Design
  • Architects: Aflalo and Gasperini Architects
  • City: São Paulo
  • Country: Brazil
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Text description provided by the architects. The antithesis is strong and the metaphor becomes obvious when one realizes that the Sao Paulo Library, once a prison, is now a place of freedom to explore knowledge, ideas, and books.

São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Image 8 of 16
© Daniel Ducci

The old Carandiru penitentiary complex in Sao Paulo has changed its face becoming the new Youth Park. Within the park, the Library is bringing people from every corner of the city to take advantage of the new entertainment and cultural experience.

São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Facade, Windows
© Daniel Ducci

The building interior is spacious with zenithal illumination, assuring great flexibility in the layout. Spaced every 10 meters, 20 columns and 10 beams compose the structure. The furniture adds fun and colorful tones and playful graphics were added to the glass partitions to give needed privacy to those who will read or research. The library is organized as a bookstore, aiming to attract a non-reader public as well. The idea is that this project can be replied in other cities.

São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Facade, Garden
© Daniel Ducci

The layout of the building begins with the ground floor, which is composed of a reception area, a small auditorium, and reading modules for children and teenagers. The existing terrace was covered by tensor structure, giving the impression of “nautical tents”. These “tents” connect to the cafeteria and cover the seating area and performance spaces.

São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Table, Chair
© Daniel Ducci

In the upper floor we find another quantity space, several reading spaces and multimedia areas. On this floor specialized furniture can be found for differently-abled people including: tables ergonomically designed for visually and physically impaired visitors. In accordance with ADA regulations, the building has tactile floors, Braille inscriptions, as well as adequate ramps. The upper level has terraces in the east and west facades. For increased privacy, they were covered with pergolas made with eucalyptus and polycarbonate, assuring a pleasant space for a living room and live performances. Pre-molded panels, with texturized finishing, compose the remaining facades.

São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Chair, Table, Beam
© Daniel Ducci

More than being a beautiful and distinct building, this new institution has the mission to be the central of 961 libraries in the state of Sao Paulo, spread over 602 municipalities.

São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects - Shelving, Lighting
© Daniel Ducci

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Project location

Address:Sao Paulo - São Paulo, Brazil

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "São Paulo Library / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects" 30 May 2011. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/137162/sao-paulo-library-aflalo-and-gasperini-architects> ISSN 0719-8884

© Daniel Ducci

圣保罗图书馆 / Aflalo and Gasperini Architects

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