The University Library and the Department of Architecture have revealed the shortlist for a design competition to attract bold re-imaginings of the open spaces and environment of the iconic Giles Gilbert Scott building.

We were looking to prompt a true diversity of responses from the entrants

Ingrid Schröder

The competition, made possible by a generous gift from Peter Baldwin and Lisbet Rausing, provided the perfect opportunity to elicit fresh and unconventional ideas for the landscape surrounding the Library; ideas which have the potential to transform not just the entrance sequence to the Library, but the way such open social spaces are being used.

Entries to this ideas competition were judged on their innovative interpretation of the site, its context, use and history – as well as their ability to integrate contemporary ecological research.

The eight shortlisted entries will be on display in the University Library Entrance Hall from September 12-28. Staff, students and members of the public are welcome to participate in the public vote as well as putting forward their own ideas on postcards provided in the Library.

Ingrid Schröder, from the Department of Architecture, said: “We were looking to prompt a true diversity of responses from the entrants – and that’s exactly what we have with the eight shortlisted entries. It was an ideas competition to visualise how the area surrounding Cambridge University Library could be reimagined. We haven’t been disappointed with the results.”

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