Project Task: Modern Library in Astana

Objective of the Competition: Develop a design for a modern library that will become a center of knowledge and innovation in Astana. The library should incorporate advanced technologies and adhere to the principles of sustainable architecture.

Design area:
Participants may independently select a site for the library based on the following criteria:

• Location: The site must be within the city limits of Astana, easily accessible for residents and tourists. Areas with good transport connectivity and integration with existing city infrastructure are preferred.
• Plot size: Recommended size is 0.5–1.0 hectares. However, participants may propose alternative sizes, provided they justify the choice within the overall project concept.
• Surroundings: Sites adjacent to green spaces or cultural landmarks are preferred to support the idea of integrating the library into the city’s cultural and educational environment.
• Flexibility in parameters: Participants may suggest changes to the chosen site or its size, as long as the modifications align with the overall project concept and the goals of sustainable architecture.
• Building Size: The recommended building area is 5,000–7,000 m². Deviations are allowed if well-justified in the project.

Required Spaces and Planning Solutions:
1. Public Areas:

• Main Lobby: Includes a waiting area, information desk, and self-service terminals.
• Multi-purpose Zone: A flexible space for lectures, exhibitions, and workshops, adaptable for various events.
• Co-working Zone: Includes individual workspaces with high-speed internet, charging stations, and cozy corners for focused work.
• Cafe or Buffet: Open to both visitors and staff, offering comfortable seating for relaxation and networking.

2. Library Spaces:

• Main Reading Hall: Open access to books and media materials for on-site reading or borrowing.
• Specialized Rooms for Rare Editions and Archives: Equipped with climate control systems to preserve valuable materials.
• Children’s Area: Interactive spaces for educational games, featuring safe materials and equipment for children of all ages.
• Quiet Reading Zones: Designed for focused study and reading, located away from noisy public areas.
• Media Center: Access to digital resources, including multimedia collections, VR technologies, and educational platforms.

3. Educational and Specialized Areas:

• Conference Room: Capacity for 50–100 people, equipped for lectures, conferences, and video presentations.
• Classrooms and Studios: Multimedia-equipped spaces for training sessions and workshops.
• Special Collections and Archives Zone: Designed for research with historical materials, rare manuscripts, and documents.

4. Service and Administrative Spaces:

• Restrooms, storage rooms, and technical facilities for climate control and security systems.
• Administrative offices for staff, including break rooms, workspaces, and a staff conference room.
• Technical service and storage areas for equipment, including a server room and IT infrastructure.
• Library Storage Rooms.
• Parking for visitors and staff.

5. Accessibility for Visitors with Special Needs:

• Accessible entrances, restrooms, and navigation systems for people with reduced mobility.
• Interactive panels and signage for indoor navigation, as well as dedicated workstations for visitors with visual or hearing impairments.

Special Requirements:

• Advanced Technologies: The project should incorporate modern systems for digital resource access, integration with city information services, and flexible technological solutions to meet future demands.
• Sustainable Architecture: Emphasis should be placed on energy efficiency, water conservation, use of renewable resources, and sustainable construction materials. Green spaces and natural lighting are highly encouraged.

Inspirational Examples:

• Oodi Central Library in Helsinki: For integrating cultural functions with unique design.
• Shenzhen Public Library: A sustainable approach with solar energy usage.
• Alvar Aalto Library in Rovaniemi: For adapting to northern climate conditions.

Evaluation Criteria:

• Creativity and originality of the concept.
• Use of innovative technological solutions.
• Justification of site selection and planning decisions.
• Realism and adaptability of the project.
• Compliance with sustainable architecture principles.

Note: Participants may justify deviations from the recommended building areas and functional zones if it enhances the project and aligns with the stated goals.