Almedal Library, Visby

Almedal Library, situated adjacent to Uppsala University - Campus Gotland between the Almedalen harbor and park area in Visby, is a unique and integrated public and university library.

The library, which was built in 2000-2001 and inaugurated on 22 September 2001, was designed by architects Christer Malmström and Anders Grape. Their vision was to create a building with a modern design and contemporary materials that would harmoniously blend with the medieval world heritage city of Visby. The exterior of the library features simple straight shapes, which reflect the traditional building style of Gotland.

The architects used a mix of concrete, cement, and pigments to achieve a color reminiscent of the local limestone. The color scheme of various shades of gray, white, and gray-green is inspired by the natural colors of the Gotland landscape. The large glass surfaces not only offer stunning views of Visby's medieval house gables and the sea but also reflect the medieval city both inside and outside the building, creating a unique interplay between old and new.

The materials used in the interior include oak, ash, gray homespun, black leather, black paint, and a green hue that mirrors the glass facades and the green surroundings of Almedalen. The designers aimed to create an environment where architecture, exterior, and interior design seamlessly interact to form spaces that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The library's foyer, with its carefully chosen building materials and the spacious glazed area, offers visitors an aesthetic experience right from the entrance. The limestone floor with a hint of marble, designed by Karin Tyrefors, further adds to the library's overall appeal.