PORTUGAL MODERN

1988 - 1995

Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro

Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern design with sleek lines and a prominent glass façade. Photo by Ben
Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern design with sleek lines and a prominent glass façade. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a minimalist design with smooth concrete walls and plaster finishes. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern urban design with a prominent public space, shaded areas, and a community-centered campus layout. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing an interior with varnished wood flooring, hardwood ceiling, and modern interior design elements. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior design with prominent wooden elements, including hardwood flooring, a stained wood ceiling, and a staircase with a sleek handrail and integrated lighting fixtures. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern design with a prominent use of wood elements, including hardwood flooring, varnished plywood ceilings, and sleek lockers. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior with wooden flooring, ceiling, and shelving, featuring bookcases and furniture designed for optimal functionality and aesthetic appeal. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing an interior with varnished wood flooring, ceiling, and shelving, complemented by modern furniture and bookcases. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior design with varnished flooring, ceiling, and shelving, featuring bookcases and a public library layout. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior with wooden shelving, bookcases, and sleek flooring under soft lighting. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior design with varnished wood shelving, bookcases, and a high ceiling. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior with varnished bookcases, shelving units, and a well-designed ceiling. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior design with varnished flooring, extensive shelving, and daylighting through large glass windows. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern interior design with wooden flooring, hardwood stairs, and elegant lighting fixtures. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern urban design with concrete walls and composite materials. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern design with prominent limestone tile flooring. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern urban design with a sleek composite material exterior. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern design with a sleek glass façade and a prominent cantilevered structure on the campus headquarters. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Library at the University of Aveiro showcasing a minimalist design with prominent concrete structures.
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The Library of the University of Aveiro, designed by the renowned architect Álvaro Siza, stands as a testament to innovative architectural design and thoughtful integration with its environment. Conceived as part of the University Campus of Santiago, the library embodies a vision of autonomy and harmony within the campus’s broader architectural landscape. Siza’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in the natural geometry of the surrounding salt evaporation ponds, which inspired the library’s architectural form and spatial dynamics.

The building’s design is characterized by its clean lines and strategic use of light, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere for study and research. Siza’s approach to the library’s architecture is evident in his statement: “there lies the origin of the Library’s architecture, from the implantation to the horizontal openings, from the volume to the invading light.” This vision is realized through the library’s horizontal openings and volumetric forms, which allow natural light to permeate the interior spaces, enhancing the reading experience.

The library’s interior is designed to foster a sense of unity and connection. Openings between reading rooms on different floors create visual links that encourage interaction and a sense of community among users. This spatial fluidity is a hallmark of Siza’s design, promoting both individual focus and collective engagement.

Despite challenges during construction, the library was ultimately celebrated for its architectural excellence, earning Siza the title of Honoris Causa Doctor by the University of Aveiro. The building’s thoughtful integration with its surroundings, use of natural materials, and emphasis on light and space make it a significant architectural achievement, reflecting Siza’s commitment to creating environments that are both functional and inspiring.

Publications on Library, University of Aveiro by Álvaro Siza Vieira

Guia de Arquitetura Álvaro Siza Projetos Construídos Portugal, Architectural Guide Álvaro Siza Built Projects Portugal, ISBN: 9789899846289 Book
Universidade de Aveiro. 30 anos de arquitectura, University of Aveiro Thirty Years of Architecture, ISBN: 9789728650056 Book