Kere Architecture unveils the ‘Biblioteca dos Saberes,’ which is situated in the heart of a new urban development in Rio de Janeiro’s Cidade Nova neighborhood. The new public cultural center and library, spanning over 400,000 square feet, was commissioned by the Rio de Janeiro City Hall and aims to anchor an urban revitalization of the Valongo Wharf and Little Africa surroundings. The project aims to transform the city center into a more accessible and vibrant area that comes alive within the community and its context.
The studio introduces a striking design, defined by a signature perforated brick façade and a sculptural central cylinder that anchors the entire structure. Designed with elevated curved pathways that weave through and around the building, also extending across the street, connecting with the monument honoring anti-slavery resistance leader Zumbi dos Palmares. More than an architectural statement, the center reshapes the urban fabric, helping the city reconnect with its complex history, offering a space deeply rooted in cultural memory.
Situated in Rio’s lively Cidade Nova district, opposite the master architect Oscar Niemeyer’s iconic Sambódromo parade grounds. The project is Kéré Architecture’s first built work in South America and their second library worldwide after the Gando Primary School Library in Burkina Faso. The architecture is rooted in cultural significance and urban energy; the building bridges contemporary design with local heritage, creating a meaningful new landmark for the community.
The 40,000-square-meter cultural and library complex brings together reading rooms, workshops, exhibition spaces, an auditorium, and a café, arranged in a seamless transition from quiet study spaces to lively areas for making, performing, and gathering. At the heart of the complex rises a sculptural “tree of knowledge” volume, inspired by the region’s native trees, anchoring the building both spatially and symbolically. Acting as a communal heart, the vertical volume links all programmatic elements and echoes the tradition of people gathering beneath trees for community interaction.
The volumes surrounding this tower are a three-story building that unfolds into terraces, open-air spaces, and rooftop gardens. Landscaped terraces, shaded courtyards, and a canopied amphitheater provide spaces for performances, reading, and informal assemblies. Wrapped in a perforated, layered facade, the entire structure is built with characteristic brick material. The library consists of three storeys of curved, flat planes that are covered in outdoor terraces.
Ultimately, the Biblioteca dos Saberes stands as an open, welcoming public space that celebrates knowledge, connection, and cultural identity. Designed as both a library and a vibrant community hub, it bridges histories and community with inspiring learning, gathering, and creativity for generations to come.
Biblioteca dos Saberes Project Details
Project name: Biblioteca dos Saberes
Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Architect: Francis Kere | Kere Architecture
Year: Ongoing
Photography: Kere Architecture
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