Conor O’Kelly
Interiors Building Cities
Other Traditions: Inter cultural place-making, and forestation of the Stockholm City Library, Sweden
This project explores diverse knowledge systems, emphasizing oral traditions and ecological knowledge exchanges. Set in Stockholm, Sweden, the project focuses on the Stockholm City Library, a significant architectural landmark, and its surrounding areas, including Observatory Hill. The project addresses three key issues: providing library spaces for informal meetings, creating inclusive spaces for minority groups, particularly refugees, and enhancing biodiversity.
The project proposes connecting the library with a nearby annex using small workrooms, creating an urban forest as a living laboratory and incorporating culturally resonant spaces like the Qa’a for storytelling and language learning. The urban forest expansion aligns with Stockholm’s environmental goals, enhancing air quality and providing leisure space. The design integrates with the local landscape, ensuring accessibility and monumentality while also respecting the historical significance of the site.