In a 200 year old restored building in Mexico City, a cultural initiative was instigated to create the Ciudadela or City of Books, a library containing the private collections of 5 distinguished Mexican citizens. As part of this project, the practice of Alejandro Sanchez Garcia Arquitectos was commissioned to create the library of Jose Luis Martinez, a revered historian, diplomat and academic, in a space of 600 sqm.
The project took into consideration, not only the design aesthetic but also the functionality of the space, material palette and the ‘green’ aspect of the library. With the choice of rich wooden shelving and flooring, the concept was based on the home and studio of Jose Lui Martinez with two connected halls to make up the main space in which the 70.00 books were housed. The shelves were attached to the walls by metal fixtures and solar panel to ensure that an optimum temperature is maintained so as to preserve the books in a perfect state.
A traditional mezzanine space was constructed above the double height shelving, accessible from two staircases, thus providing additional storage and seating for the visitors. The construction of a central glass enclosed area is a contemporary solution to a needed exhibition space which also accommodates the central staircase. The result is a blend of the traditional and the modern which allows an ease of flow for both functions of the library and contributes to the largest private collection of books in Mexico. The entire project of the City of Books also provides facilities for a general library, theatre,children’s library and an exhibition gallery.
