Blog 2: Behind the Architecture of the British Library

The long winded development of the British Library was completed in 1997. The architect who had skilfully planned this outstanding architecture for this famous library was Sir Colin St John Wilson. The design principles are based on the principles of 19th century architecture with an underlying gothic theme. The design has been meticulous in its details and contains an overwhelming amount of space within the library and includes features of balconies, stair cases and escalators.

It took a total of 35 years to get the library built and unlike most projects which would be completed in a shorter duration. Many critics where put forward against the library, this surprised me as I see it is a fantastic faculty with a great multitude of materials which serve the information needs of millions of people. However the plans needed approval of the government client body which involved much struggle.

This library has been positively described as being “invigorating” and “uplifting” this incorporates one of the key measures of success of architecture, the feelings which are brought about in the people that dwell there. The building has a sense of enclosure even despite its large size. The architecture of the British library is considered unique for retaining “The older tradition of Modern Architecture” it has an unconventional structure and upholds a high quality finish. With careful engineering this treasure can be appreciated for many years to come.

The key to designing architecture is firstly to examine what will be used there, in this instance the architecture has inflicted feelings of comfort and impression on those who work there, the key ideas where never fully described by the architect but has lead sceptics to evaluate the intentions of the quiet but magnificent architecture. Furthermore the British library was intended to be a great international library and simultaneously has attracted researchers throughout the world visiting the library within its existence.

Reflection on Blogger experience: I utilized a website and an online book; I found that the book went into much more depth and description than the website. I also found it interesting to research the architecture of the British library as I had no previous knowledge of the subject.

References:

1. The British Library, London 2008, The British Library, London, Galinsky, viewed 20 August 2010, < http://www.galinsky.com/buildings/British%20library/index.htm >

2. Stonehouse and Stromberg, London 2004, The Architecture of The British Library at St. Pancras, Google books, viewed 20 August 2010, < http://books.google.com.au/books?id=TBPfzd8kWBgC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Architecture+of+british+library&source=bl&ots=2CTKRqwwqh&sig=1r3UiSs5cy8l-_6Uc8XgMIeKRVQ&hl=en&ei=x6uATM3PPIqfcaCf_LQL&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CCYQ6AEwAzgK#v=onepage&q&f=false >

(An online book preview)