Designing the Library

The design team was led by Mecanoo, a Netherlands-based architectural practice which has won many awards and accolades for their stunning and innovative work. Mecanoo were appointed to design the Library of Birmingham in 2008 following a rigorous selection process.

The design team also included Birmingham-based engineers Buro Happold and design co-ordinators Davis Langdon Schumann Smith.

Inspiration behind the Library of Birmingham design

Architect Francine Houben, Mecanoo’s Founding Partner, describes her design for the Library of Birmingham as the ‘People’s Palace’ and says her design was "inspired by the energy of this great city. I hope that the adventure of going through the building will draw many more people towards the joy of learning and reading, and even just to simply experience the pleasure of social interaction that a great public space can provide."

Watch the video to hear Francine Houben of Mecanoo talk about the thinking behind her design for the Library of Birmingham.