As a complex public institution that accommodates life and architecture at different scales, the Stockholm Public Library was the focal point for the studio this year. Around the turn of the century, libraries were confronted with increased digitalisation, privatisation of public space and questions about their role in society. The institution has gradually transformed - from a place dedicated to lending books to a complex public space that promotes inclusivity and diversity.

The starting point of the studio is the architectural competition launched in 2006, which sought the expansion of the Library and the possibility of a renewed urban strategy. The challenge then became addressing the identity of the monumental building and the integration of a wide range of programmes, as well as discussing and embracing issues of equality and multiculturalism.

The graduation project aims to extend Asplundhuset, by enhancing existing qualities and connecting the detached, the library and its closest annex. To facilitate a connection between the buildings, a delicate intervention is added, a screen that is able to negotiate the differences between the two buildings, as well as act as a filter between the street and Observatory Hill.

Internally, the intervention aims to relieve unbalanced spaces that are housing several functions that are colliding with each other, allowing for continuity and accessibility. Embracing the challenging aspects of all the different activities that can take place in the library, the proposal is looking at carefully introducing a generous range of social spaces as well as individual ones, contributing to the overall complexity of the institution - a complexity that can rarely be found in the more dispersed and fragmented spaces in the city. Overall, the addition would be valuable in establishing a compelling and logical portrayal of the Public Library as a uniquely inclusive space.

The architectural evolution of the Romanian coast after WWII saw brand new developments, fuelled by the need to create a profitable touristic industry, that is promoted locally and internationally, painting a picture of the progress and success of the socialist society. Tourists from all over Europe are known to have passed through these resorts. The initial development plan focused on health and treatment facilities, similar to other countries in the Soviet sphere, built on modernist urban principles, proposing a new relationship between public architecture and the natural environment. For most people, the bohemian resorts have lost their fascination and elegance, but still hold a dear place in their hearts, for others, they represent a communist reminder that needs to be erased.

The paper reflects upon the coastline’s relationship to water, landscape and its surroundings. A critical evaluation of the coastline architecture is undertaken, initially from an ideological and political point of view, followed by an architectural one, discussing the solutions, concepts and overall contextual approach over the frontier area. The tourism-related establishments thoroughly encapsulate social and political success, as well as an architectural significance, justifying their resurrection and relevance on the Romanian coastline, even in contemporary times.