ALPOLIC MCM Helps Create A New Landmark In Calgary
A modern marvel, the Calgary Central Library strikes a stunning contrast to the urban environment in which it sits. The unique, award-winning design features more than 110,000 square feet of ALPOLIC metal composite materials (MCM) finished in various shades of custom white prismatic. Inspired by the regional Chinook winds and their resulting cloud formations, a latticework prioritized limiting train disruptions, erecting concrete supports in the middle of the night.
Beautiful both inside and out, the atrium delivers drama, light, and awe. Rising 85 feet, the white and wood palettes from the exterior twirl around each rising floor, culminating in an eye shaped feature that looks out to the sky. Rooms alternate in wide open floor plans and of 465 geometric panels of intermixed glass and metal, trimmed with warm western red cedar, creates a breathtaking façade.
The $245M building, which officially opened in late 2018, was a collaboration between international architecture firm Snøhetta and Canadian-based DIALOG. The design, named by Architectural Digest as one of the most anticipated buildings of 2018 and listed in TIME Magazine’s 100 greatest places of 2019, is a magnificent example of modern architecture that is both inspirational and inviting.
Functional Design Harmonized With Urban Setting
Revitalizing the East Village neighborhood and connecting it with the downtown area, this 240,000 square foot building breathes new life into Calgary. Rather than construct a building apart, the structure is intimately connected to its surroundings. Using the curves of the tracks as a guide, the overhanging building allows onlookers to watch as the trains burrow beneath the library. Remarkably, the construction partitioned alcoves depending on their purpose. Rocus meeting spaces on the lower floors give way to serene reading areas on the upper floors providing space to those using the Calgary Library as an opportunity to connect with their community and those who find comfort in seclusion.
ALPOLIC Provides Beauty And Efficiency
Marrying the evocative and opulent with an efficiency and eye to sustainability, the Calgary Library is LEED Gold certified and is a winner of multiple awards. Sustainable ALPOLIC helped deliver that success with a shimmering finish and versatility. The pearlescent-like Lumiflon FEVE based finishes that coat the MCM visually provide light reflection and dimension, as well as ensuring superior fade resistance, color clarity and overall panel protection. Due to its lightweight and adaptability, MCM panels, fabricated by Flynn and installed by Ferguson, create the striking visual that stands as a rejuvenation for the local community and an inspiration for the world.
Metal composite materials can breathe new life into communities in transition. Consider ALPOLIC for your next project. Request an AIA presentation for your firm today.
