Taking over ten years from concept to reality, the University of Birmingham Library was described as heralding a new generation of libraries in UK higher education.
The state-of-the-art development replaces the old 1950s library and meets modern users’ requirements with group study rooms, PC use and loanable laptops, Wi-Fi, support for staff and researchers, and 24/7 live chat.
The construction of the external cladding was an important part of the library’s story, aiming to present a visualisation of its technological provenance. The contemporary aesthetic does just that, representing a range of resources for studying in the 21st Century and beyond.
Anodised Rainscreen and feature cladding was fitted to the library exterior and entranceway, adding vibrancy to the building, which sits at the heart of the University campus.
Tim Cornbill, Project Architect for Associated Architects said:
“We approached Bailey as they could provide the high-quality finish we desired for the important components of the building. They could also match the performance specification and flexibility when it came to the panel sizes required to fit the design…The finished result is superb. The entrance canopy and the feature colonnade tie in seamlessly with the other anodised gold finishes throughout the project, providing the perfect impression for students entering the building”.