Manchester Metropolitan University Library
A library of the future
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The new 22,000 sqm library will provide a gateway to the academic campus and serve as a beacon for ambition, excellence and innovation.
A collaboration with Schmidt Hammer Lassen commissioned as part of the university’s 2030 strategic vision, the development will act as a city-wide landmark and welcoming front door to the university campus, while sign-posting the region’s internationally acclaimed Knowledge Quarter.
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The iconic new building will feature digitally enabled teaching and research facilities to enhance students’ data science and analytical skills, flexible break-out spaces to support collaboration and nurture ideas, and a new home for the Manchester Poetry Library, the North West’s first public poetry library. It will also house a new gallery and event spaces designed for both public and University use.
We were very conscious of designing a 'living library' where the collection is only one of many services offered, giving students a reason to stay on campus and make the most out of their university experience.
The design redefines the library concept, taking the form of a ‘tower and tail’ cut with bold geometric slices; clear and vibrant glazed slots hint at the diversity of activities on offer within, softened by circular-coloured lenses.
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The tower is set to raise the library’s profile both physically and metaphorically, rising above and beyond the Mancunian Way. The tail will ground the library as a building in the round of the historic locale of All Saints, further defining the place and presenting an active frontage to the park.
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Our new library will be welcoming and inclusive, fostering community and belonging. It will draw people in and stimulate the creation, discovery and sharing of knowledge, collaboration and experimentation. It’s a tremendously exciting opportunity to transform the campus experience.
Project details
Project name: Manchester Metropolitan University Library
Location: Manchester, United Kindom
Scope: Architecture
Clients: Manchester Metropolitan University
Status: Live
Completion date: 2029
Client: Manchester Metropolitan University
Architect: Hawkins\Brown
Library Specialist: Schmidt Hammer Lassen
Interior Designer: Hawkins\Brown and Schmidt Hammer Lassen
Project Manager: Turner & Townsend
Structural & Civil Engineer: Buro Happold
Landscape: Planit IE