University library extension, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

The University Library Complex consists of three independent buildings that were built decades apart—the original main library in the 1970s, its annex in the 1980s and the latest extension. This project involved the construction of a new extension and a spatial reorganisation of the two existing buildings to merge and transform into one coherent whole, creating an open plan where different learning activities can come together. This extension features a minimalist design that integrates nature with respect to its history, and seeks to preserve the existing spatial quality and ambience of the University Mall.

PRESERVING CULTURE, HISTORY AND MEMORIES
To rearrange spaces within the three buildings, boundary walls were removed to enhance interaction. The new extension maintains the alignment to the main axis of the existing University Library and the buildings along the University Mall. The project restores the University Mall’s piazza and garden to their original appearances after the construction of a huge basement underneath. At the juncture of the University Library and the new extension, the architect inserted an atrium within the extension. The historical façade of the University Library has been preserved as an internal feature wall of the atrium, and this space serves as a visual articulation of the conservation and preservation of the old to integrate with the new. Having a shared façade also means one less façade was needed, and together with the adaptive reuse of the existing stone cladding for the restoration of the Forum (a set of stairs), reduced the amount of construction materials that were required. In addition, the atrium acts as a visual connection between the floors.

PROJECT DATA

Project Name	University Library Extension, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Location	Central Campus, The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong
Completion Date	September 2012
Site Area	4,667 square metres
Gross Floor Area	9,488 square meters
Number of Rooms	16 study rooms ; 2 multi-function rooms; Learning Commons; Research Commons; Reading Room; Open study area of about 2,000 study spaces
Building Height	17.56 meters
Client/Owner	The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Project Manager	Campus Development Office, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Architecture Firm	Aedas Ltd.
Principal Architect	Stephen Cheng
Main Constructor	Chun Wo Construction & Engineering Co., Ltd.
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer	J. Roger Preston Ltd.
Civil & Structural Engineer	Wong & Cheng Consulting Engineers Ltd.
Quantity Survivor	Langdon & Seah Hong Kong Ltd.
Landscape Architect	Team 73 HK Ltd.
Environment &Ecological Consultant	FYBR Hong Kong Limited
Interior Designers	PangArchitect Ltd; Campus Development Office, The Chinese of University of Hong Kong
Interior Fitting Out Contractor	PacificPlan Interiors Ltd.
Images/Photos	Aedas Ltd; University Library System, The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Angela Pang