Sendai Mediatheque, Media library and art gallery in Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
This structure encompasses seven floors within a transparent glass cube supported by thirteen metal tubes that simultaneously function as columns and service conduits. The open architecture allows visual connections between all levels through the continuous vertical elements.
The project began in 1989 when the Miyagi Prefectural Arts Association petitioned for a large gallery, leading to a 1992 decision to build a new citizens' gallery with the Sendai City Library. Toyo Ito won the open competition in 1995, construction ran from December 1997 to August 2000, and the Mediatheque opened in January 2001.
This institution combines traditional library services with digital resources while providing public spaces for collaborative learning, art exhibitions and community gatherings. It serves as a central meeting point for citizens of all ages in Sendai.
The ground floor houses a cafe and bookstore, while upper floors contain specialized areas including a children's library, cinema and meeting rooms. The facility is easily accessible by public transport from Sendai Station and provides barrier-free access throughout.
The 13 steel tubes are not uniform: each has a different diameter and irregular arrangement, and they pierce the six floor plates to carry stairs, lifts, ducts and rooftop light. The glass facade lets passers-by see the skeleton from Jozenji-dori, and at night interior lighting turns the volume into a multi-hued lantern.
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