Intermunicipal Library Alberto De Eccher dall’Eco by DAP Studio

Architects: DAP Studio 

Located in the historic center of Mezzolombardo, the Intermunicipal Library Alberto De Eccher dall’Eco represents a refined example of adaptive reuse architecture, transforming the former Equipe 5 winery into a contemporary cultural hub deeply rooted in its urban and social context. Completed in 2023, the project redefines the role of the public library as an open, flexible, and inclusive civic space, capable of supporting study, cultural exchange, and everyday community life.

Adaptive Reuse as Urban Regeneration

Set within a compact historic fabric characterized by narrow paths and inner courtyards, the existing building held significant architectural value, including stone portals, Doric columns, monolithic pillars, and vaulted interiors. The intervention, authorized by the Superintendency for Architectural Heritage of the Autonomous Province of Trento, adopts a sensitive conservation strategy, balancing preservation with contemporary architectural language.

Rather than mimicking the historic fabric, the architects introduced a subtle overlay of new elements that reinterpret the facade. Projecting volumes in burnished bronze-effect sheet metal and wood: including the entrance vestibule, stair railing, and foyer volume, dialogue with the original geometry of the windows, enhancing the building’s civic presence while respecting its historical identity. The warm metallic tones add a discreet sense of preciousness, signaling the building’s renewed public role.

A Library Designed as a Social Space

Conceived as more than a repository of books, the library embraces the idea of atmosphere and social interaction, echoing contemporary theories of library design as a “third place.” The cultural hub houses the Civic Library, study rooms, a historical archive, children’s areas, and a multipurpose conference room, all designed to operate independently or together depending on time and use.

Access is organized through two main entrances: one from the historic center via an alley leading to an internal garden, and another from Via De Gasperi. A sequence of Doric columns forms a transitional screen between paved and green areas, reinforcing the threshold between city and culture.

Spatial Organization and Functional Flexibility

Internally, the building is divided into two main zones, the library and study areas, and the conference facilities, linked by a central service spine containing technical and support spaces. This layout allows extended opening hours for selected areas, particularly the study rooms and multipurpose spaces, which can function independently in the evenings, making the library especially attractive to younger users.

The library itself unfolds across three levels: a generous open-plan ground floor, a mezzanine balcony, and a basement level. Floor-to-ceiling shelving, informal reading corners, and consultation tables create a varied learning landscape, while strategic placement of the librarian’s office, circulation desk, stairs, and elevator ensures visual control and intuitive movement throughout the space.

Materiality, Light, and Interior Atmosphere

A defining interior feature is the use of ceiling-suspended fabric volumes, which subtly organize the open space from above, marking entrances, stair zones, and quieter reading areas without rigid partitions. These elements contribute to acoustic comfort and spatial clarity while maintaining openness.

The children’s library, located in an adjacent low-volume structure, is conceived as a warm, wood-paneled environment with bleachers, low shelves, and playful furnishings, directly connected to an outdoor area for events and activities.

The Basement as a Cultural Stage

In the basement, the architects preserved the expressive character of the vaulted stone spaces, consolidating walls with rough plaster that leaves the texture of the masonry visible. This level hosts a more informal library and event space, connected to the garden by an external staircase that reveals previously hidden portions of the historic facade.

New interventions: exposed concrete staircases, minimal furniture, wooden bleachers, and a distinctive lighting system of suspended luminous rectangles, create a clear contrast with the historic shell, reinforcing the dialogue between old and new.

A Contemporary Civic Landmark

The Intermunicipal Library Alberto De Eccher dall’Eco stands as a compelling example of public architecture through adaptive reuse, where heritage conservation, contemporary design, and social sustainability converge. By transforming a former industrial structure into a vibrant cultural hub, the project strengthens community identity while offering flexible, welcoming spaces for learning, gathering, and cultural production.