Introduction
In Canada, the confined expansion space and quest for modernity has driven institutions of higher learning to construct some of the most phenomenal buildings in the world. Complex yet marvelous, University libraries in Toronto have ceased to be mere learning centers, but are moving towards a new age when they double up as architectural tourism attractions. Topping the list are the John Robarts Research Library and Ryerson University Students Learning Center, both located in Toronto, Ontario. These breathtaking marvels of contemporary architecture are built with incredible yet comprehensive art. If they share nothing else, they would still share the magic touch with which they were crafted and constructed. However, in terms of architecture, the two buildings share almost as much similarities as they do the differences. Ideally, they were not meant to be a replica of each other given the need for creativity and uniqueness. On that note, the choice of material, architectural design, lighting, historical factors, and utilization of space would sufficiently describe the two architectural wonders and set them apart from each other, and from other libraries within and without Canada.
Overview of the two buildings
Ryerson Library is the major social sciences and humanities library of the Toronto University Libraries, and the biggest one in the entire university. The building, an emblem of brutalist architecture, has its primary structure anchoring on an equilateral triangle footprint.[1] The architecture is replete with extensive utilization of patterns of triangular geometry throughout the structure. The building’s commanding structure and imposing appearance has got people call it the ‘Fort Book’ in some instances. The Ryerson University students learning center in downtown Toronto has intricately harmonized art and engineering. The eight-floor modern students’ center contains concrete loft spaces with different lighting and size but all dedicated to facilitate learning and socializing among the students within the university. The building is located strategically between Ryerson University library and Yonge Street which is among the major streets in Toronto.[2] Nicknamed a ‘library without books’, the students center is another product of brutalist architecture. The building comes in the backdrop of the quest by the university to have a recognizable presence in the city as well as re-establish its position as one of the top learning institutions in the region. Below are sketches of Robarts Library and Ryerson students’ center respectively.
Comparison of the Buildings
As already mentioned the buildings share much more similarities other than just being unique. Fundamentally, both Ryerson students learning center and Robarts university library are works of brutalist architecture. Brutalist architecture features buildings that are generally massive (even if they are not large), predominated by exposed concrete construction, and fortress-like in nature.[3] It is noted that this architecture, throughout history, has been synonymous with educational institutions before finding its way into governmental structures. Regardless, Robarts Library rests on a 3-acre piece of land dotted with tree cover. As already noted, the foundation is rooted in an equilateral triangle footprint whose sides measure 100 meters. Taking the view from the southeast corner, Robarts Library looks like a standing peacock.[4] The concrete elevation differs both in texture and directionality from one point to another. The façade features smooth concrete in horizontal orientation while the vertical orientation is composed of relatively rough concrete. In addition to the concrete, the building is made of steel-framed windows that form bays that protrude from the façade. Like the Robarts Library, Ryerson students’ center’s columns and frame is made of concrete with differing texture. Similarly, fritted glass pattern the façade. The digitally-printed glass envelopes the entire concrete skeleton of the building. In as much as glass is considered light and transparent, it not only evokes a simultaneous sense of mass but also solidity. The two buildings, despite the differences in façade patterns and the same material, have their heat gain largely controlled by the said façade. They extensive glass cover also makes the buildings resemble frameless buildings of antiquity.