Tianjin Binhai Library
Tianjin Shi
Tianjin Binhai Library, located in Tianjin's Binhai New Area, is a striking architectural landmark and cultural hub completed in 2017. Designed by the Rotterdam-based firm MVRDV in collaboration with local architects, the library spans five levels and covers approximately 33,700 square meters. Its most iconic feature is the central luminous spherical auditorium, known as 'The Eye', which resembles a giant iris and can be seen from outside the building through an eye-shaped opening. The library's terraced floor-to-ceiling bookshelves create a visually stunning interior, designed to hold up to 1.2 million books, although due to construction constraints, the upper shelves are currently decorative with printed book spines. The facility includes reading lounges, computer rooms, meeting areas, offices, and rooftop patios, catering to a diverse range of visitors. As part of the Binhai Cultural Center, Tianjin Binhai Library has become one of the area's key cultural landmarks and was recognized by Time magazine in 2018 as one of the world's top 100 places to visit. The library's modern design and multifunctional spaces make it a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts and book lovers alike.
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Astuce: Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, preferably in the morning when the library opens at 10:00 AM. Advance planning is recommended as the library can be busy, especially shortly after opening. While tickets are generally not required, checking for any special exhibitions or events in advance can enhance the visit. The library offers accessible facilities, including areas designed for children and elderly visitors. Photography is allowed, but be mindful of quiet zones and respect reading areas.
Faits intéressants
- •The library's central spherical auditorium is nicknamed 'The Eye' and is visible from outside through an eye-shaped opening in the building's facade.
- •Although designed to hold 1.2 million books, many upper shelves are currently decorative due to construction constraints, with printed book spines used for visual effect.
- •The library received about 10,000 visitors daily during its first week after opening, causing significant queues outside.
- •In 2018, Time magazine ranked Tianjin Binhai Library as the number one among the 100 most worth-visiting places worldwide.
- •The library covers a total area of approximately 33,700 square meters and includes five above-ground floors and one underground level.
Histoire
Tianjin Binhai Library was constructed over three years and officially opened in October 2017.
It was designed by the Dutch architectural firm MVRDV alongside the Tianjin Urban Planning and Design Institute.
The project was completed under a tight schedule mandated by local authorities, which led to some design compromises, such as the inability to use the main atrium for actual book storage.
Since opening, the library has rapidly become a cultural icon in Tianjin and was honored by Time magazine as one of the top 100 places to visit worldwide in 2018.
In 2023, it was designated as a national first-level library in China, recognizing its importance in the country's public library system.
Guide du lieu
Central Spherical Auditorium ('The Eye')2017
A luminous sphere located in the main atrium that serves as an auditorium with a seating capacity of 110 people. It is the library's architectural centerpiece and gives the building its nickname.
Terraced Floor-to-Ceiling Bookshelves2017
These striking, curved shelves extend across multiple levels, creating a visually immersive environment. Although designed to hold 1.2 million books, the upper tiers currently feature printed spines instead of real books due to construction limitations.
Reading Lounges and Rooms
Located mainly on the first and second floors, these areas provide comfortable spaces for visitors to read and relax in a quiet environment.
Computer Rooms, Meeting Rooms, and Offices
Situated on the upper floors, these rooms support the library's operational and community functions, including digital access and collaborative activities.
Rooftop Patios
Two rooftop patios offer outdoor spaces for visitors to enjoy views and fresh air within the cultural center complex.
Contact
Téléphone: 022 6554 5678