Conceived both as a major new library and a social and creative hub in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand, the new city library will be the largest in the region.

The Clermont-Ferrand Metropolitan Library is conceived both as a major new library and as a social and creative hub in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand, in the picturesque Puy de Dôme region, famous for its chain of volcanoes.

Set to be the largest library in the city and the region, the world-class facility is planned to attract more than 500,000 visitors each year.

A fine example of adaptive reuse, the design reimagines the listed 18th century Hôtel-Dieu hospital building and garden as an inclusive and multifaceted cultural destination.

The three wings of the former hospital building will be entirely restored and enhanced to house the library’s extensive collection, reading and work rooms.
The centrepiece of this facility will be a double height light-filled extension, inserted as a giant jewel box into the horseshoe shape of the historic building. Conceived as a free space for research, discovery and dialogue, its transparent architecture will link earth and sky, books and people, building and garden, the historic city and the distinctive presence of the Puy de Dôme on the horizon.
Literally rooted in the volcanic strata of the city, crater-like subterranean gathering and performance space will animate the central forum and relate to the myriad of caves and chambers beneath the building. Above, a partially glazed roof supported by a large timber structure will create a canopy over the space.

Inspired by the unique geology of the area, locally sourced volcanic stone and volcanic ash and aggregate for low carbon embodied rammed concrete will form a key part of the material palette. To further reinforce the presence of nature in the city, the library will boast a large lecture garden embed in the surrounding landscape.