by Jennifer LeClaire

Durability through transformation. That was the architects' vision for the DOK Library Concept Center in Delft, the Netherlands.

The multimedia library occupies part of the overhauled Hoogovenpand, a 1970s mixed-use building facing a public square. Architects Liesbeth van der Pol of Dok architects (no relation) and Aat Vos of Aequo BV revitalized the gloomy building, creating the library space among existing commercial and residential functions.

Today the complex provides a bright, open setting to explore the library's diverse offerings alongside offices, apartments, restaurants, shops, and a bicycle garage. Far from the stereotype of a library as a sterile, quiet learning environment, DOK offers books, magazines, computers, music, movies, and art in a colorful urban context.

In with the Old

Dok architects was commissioned by the City of Delft to work out the renovation and expansion of the Hoogovenpand, including the library space, located in the central Zuidpoort development. Aequo came on as interior designer, but the two firms opted to approach the project as an integrated collaboration.   >>>

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SUBSCRIPTION SAMPLE The DOK Library Concept Center, in Delft, the Netherlands, was designed by Dok architecten with Aequo BV. Photo: Arjen Schmitz Extra Large Image Inside the library, a wide stair connects the ground floor with one above. Photo: Arjen Schmitz Extra Large Image   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.