Matsubara Civic Library, beyond the boundary of natural and artificial

With the Matsubara Civic Library in Matsubara, Osaka Prefecture replaced an existing library. The original building was located adjacent to a pond in a park, which is the location of many of the area’s cultural facilities. The design competition called for proposals that considered design and construction. MARU.architecture’s winning proposal viewed the site as a unique project condition. They placed the library in the water. The proposal won for its creativity and rationalization of construction process and budget.

 

Civil engineering elements

The architects envisioned a building with outer walls standing mightily in the water. In order to protect the building from water, absorb horizontal force during earthquakes, and provide the needed insulation, the walls were constructed of 600 mm (2 feet) reinforced concrete. Windows were sparingly and strategically placed to ensure natural light and to draw in air chilled by evaporative cooling from the pond. The thick outer walls were designed to absorb all seismic loads which also enabled the freedom to implement a split-level design inside the building using a steel framework. The gradually staggered floors reveal hints of the adjacent floors. The spiraling circulation route heightens the experience of the patrons as they move through the book-filled spaces where others can be found reading.   

 

A memorable structure which reflects the passage of time

Matsubara is dotted by ponds and ancient tombs throughout the city. This timeless structure respects these elements and makes a grand statement as it stands solemnly in the water. The building’s concrete surface has varied patterns from the rough plywood formwork that was used to construct it. This resultant texture seamlessly implies a sense of agelessness. The powerful mass of the outer walls extracts the different actions of people— it is here where time and memories collide.  

This monumental building is reflected in the water and enjoyed by patrons as well as people passing by. The Matsubara Civic Library serves as an important landmark in the city and is certain to continue to engage the community members for many generations to come.