The Louis Aragon library was built in 1981 and has since seen an increase in its usage which has required its refurbishment and the building of an extension of 1,400 m².
The Louis Aragon multi-media library is situated on an island, between two canals. This miniature “Provincial Venice” is subject to regulations defining lateral alignments and height limits, which resulted in the linear development of the extension to the building.
It was not only necessary to rethink the whole of the internal organisation of the building; it was also necessary to adapt it to the evolution of information technology and means of communication by computer. Finally, it was necessary to bring the building up to modern standards and, in particular, with local fire regulations.
For the architect, Emile Pamart, the objective was to maximise open workspaces to increase communication between the different functions in the building around a large central patio.
The modular play of the structures, levels and empty spaces provided the architect with various options. Only through creating a visual and “open” environment could this be achieved.
The choice of glass
Pilkington Pyrostop® glass was selected because it met the requirements of the architect and two major imperatives: transparency and safety. The fire resistance performance of Pilkington Pyrostop® was even more appreciated because the floors as well as the door and window frames of the building were made of wood.
15 mm Pilkington Pyrostop® 30-10 (30 minutes integrity and insulation) single glazing on a wood fixed frame ledge, which met the glazing requirements for the fire protection glass was specified. Pilkington Pyrostop® also offers good thermal insulation to avoid the risk of fire spreading to other compartments of the building by radiation.