Laps Architecture designs a dematerialised library in Paris

The multimedia library of the Quai Branly museum in Paris has been renovated by the Parisian studio Laps Architecture. Salvator-John A. Liotta and Fabienne Louyot have rethought the museum spaces through the concept of “selective dematerialization”: materiality, transparency and intimacy are the elements around which the reorganisation of an area of about 1,000 sqm revolves. The project does not only renew the layout of the space, but also its visual identity, ergonomics and functionality of the furnishings.

Selective dematerialization allows us to feel the presence of others preserving their intimacy. The concept is also consistent with the existing museum, with the use of amaranth wood, already present in the original project by Jean Nouvel. The new media library includes five areas: entrance lobby, magazines consultation space, cabins for multimedia screening area, a special area for consulting rare archives, and several individual or collective group research rooms. The general idea is that the entire library is not only dedicated to reading and consultation, but is a place for meeting and exchange.