Journal 4
Sainte-Geneviève Library
New York Public Library
Henri Labrouste’s design of the Sainte-Geneviève Library intrigued me the most. This library located in Paris has aspects inspired by Paris architecture. I noticed how it gives off a heavier appearance from the structure of it being a rectangular block. The inside space, however, feels airy and lighter from the natural daylight seeping through the large windows. The structure reminded me of the Crystal Palace. This is from the cast iron used. Cast iron permits high ceilings with sleek columns that support make it more functional when utilizing large spaces. It was easy to use as its main structure during this time. This was needed both in the Crystal Palace and the Sainte-Geneviève Library. At the Sainte-Geneviève Library, Labrouste exposing the metal frameworks and the slip masonry walls while exposing natural sunlight creating luminosity displays how he was able to push the capabilities of his materials and technologies to build. In addition, the inside structure of the library reminded me of our New York Public Library. From its windows which are arched shaped to its very similar set up with the chairs and tables. It made me further question, was the New York Public Library influenced by the Sainte-Geneviève Library? This is because the New York Public Library was established approximately 45 years after the Sainte-Geneviève Library. I believe there might have been a connection between both libraries because of both libraries launching a partnership together during a joint research symposium. This was to preserve and make accessible cultural heritage. Additionally, reading an article about Henri Labrouste’s exhibit on Structure Brought to LIght at the Museum of Modern Art made them to reconsider how they can develop and change the architecture of the New York Public Library to make it luminous like the Sainte-Geneviève Library.