Joint Applicants : Yi Architects
Representative Architect : Eun Young Yi

Pyeongtaek Central Library reinterprets the meaning of the place name 'Pyeongtaek' architecturally. 'Pyeongtaek' refers to a plain area where agricultural culture has developed since ancient times, and as the origin of the place name suggests, "there is only a pond on the flat land," the element of "water" is understood to be imbued with the spirit of the place (Genius Loci). This is an essential element in the public realm of Korean architecture and in the static domain of the yangban (the gentry). The entire library is envisioned as a garden, termed 'Library Garden' (도서원), with a water space called 'Aqua Forum' at its center. The architectural prototype of this library is based on the traditional architecture of Pyeongseong-eup Gaksa (彭城邑客舍), forming a rectangular mass that unfolds like wings around the central water space.

The library aims to be a space similar to a 'living room of the city' where people enjoy staying, centered around the Su-gwangjang (water plaza). While it typically functions as a pond filled with water, it can transform into a plaza when the water is drained, accommodating various cultural programs such as readings, concerts, and exhibitions. The library is designed to be a bright and open space, allowing for flexibility. The rectangular building is constructed with a single material and color, becoming progressively more enclosed in terms of materiality as one moves inward.

The rear space of the colonnade, featuring a lightweight roof and slender columns, has a transparent glass façade, while the interior is wrapped in translucent glass blocks, creating layers. The central archive room stands as a massive object, adding depth to the interior space.

Pyeongtaek Central Library modernizes the traditional library spaces of the Gyu-jang-gak's pond, the centrality of the Haeinsa Jangyeongpan-gog, and the openness of the Pyeongseong-eup Gaksa in contemporary architectural language. This library, which encompasses the history, culture, and future of the city rather than merely serving as a repository of knowledge, aspires to be an open cultural center for all citizens of Pyeongtaek.

1. #Education
2. #Culture
3. #Library
4. #Open-Storage
5. #Book-Cafe
6. #International-Competition
7. #Domestic
8. #Gyeonggi-do