From Police Station to Médiathèque by TANK

The new space designed by Tank Architectes in front of the existing station (in Madeleine, France) has been converted into a Médiathèque, public library and visitor center characterized by a triangular faceted timber canopy that controls indirect light onto the bookshelves below, performing the role of a large-scale intricate canopy.

A glass wall wraps the entire construction to thermally and acoustically protect the interior space but allows readers of all ages views to the varied gardens that surround the structure, making it feel like an exterior space in a colorfully vegetated area.

The central modules contain protruding elements that frame smaller triangular skylights like polygonal domes that allow natural light inside. Each unit is prefabricated using laminated beams and pinewood joists, cladded in particle board panels and fixed together with custom metal hangers.

The library opens to the garden and participates in linking neighborhoods with downtown, creating a constant flow of visitors and creative energies. The ground floor of the development facilitates a small auditorium, a cafe and seating areas that can host wide range of community events. The central atrium allows smooth passage through the building, connecting the contents and linking the edifice to the outside.