PROJECT DETAILS

Albin Hennig / Dieter Dietrich / Gerhard Guggenberger: Universitätsbibliothek der Technischen Universität Dortmund (Library of the Technical University of Dortmund), 1974C–1976

  • Dortmund, Germany, Show on map
  • #EDU #Western Europe
  • The upper part of the structure dominates the appearance of the building. It rests on slender pilotis. A window line, framed by sunshades, cuts through the washed concrete panels made of brown Weserkies. The upper completion consists of the side surfaces of the shed roofs arranged in a way sometimes compared to merlons, a nod to the silhouette of the Audimax of the neighbouring Ruhr-University Bochum. There is also a deliberate similarity to the university administration building of the Ruhr University, by the same architect Albin Hennig. Behind the supports, the lower floors recede into the background, an impression that is reinforced by their dark façade cladding made of anodized aluminum, making the building appear light and compact in relation to its actual size. Furthermore, the library is characterized by its original interior design. Essential components of the furnishings and building services are celebrated with red accents. Gallery levels and the slanted windows give the interior an open and inviting feeling.
  • Demolished.
    The fate of the library has been discussed since 2013. In addition to demolition, renovation was also considered but was ruled out for economic reasons. A request for listing as a historical landmark initiated by students was rejected. Reasons given for denial were insurmountable deficiencies in fire protection and energy efficiency. Additionally, the planning stage was deemed too advanced. The library was closed in August 2023, and the demolition started on November 20, 2024 (last updated on December 11, 2024).