La Source Third-Place Library by NAS Architecture: Revitalizing Rochefort-du-Gard’s Cultural Heritage

The La Source Third-Place Library is a transformative architectural project in the historic center of Rochefort-du-Gard, France. Originally the Saint-Joseph Chapel, constructed between 1638 and 1734 using stones from the destroyed Castellas Castle, the building has served multiple civic roles—from a town hall to a school—before being closed in 2017 due to structural risks. NAS Architecture reimagined this heritage site, extending it into a modern third-place library, blending historic preservation, community engagement, and contemporary design.

Preserving Heritage, Activating Public Space

The project revitalizes a previously underutilized square created in 1995 after the demolition of an adjacent residential building. Located at the intersection of Rue de l'Église and Rue du Grand Pont, the library sits beside the historic chapel and a derelict barn, forming a vibrant urban node in Rochefort-du-Gard’s dense village fabric.

The library’s design promotes social interaction, turning the square into a gathering space for cultural events. The ground floor integrates with the public square through accordion-style folding glass doors, blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. A connecting bridge links the modern extension to the rehabilitated chapel, now housing a digital museum with year-round educational workshops focusing on cultural themes.

Materiality and Architectural Expression

The architectural language of La Source reflects a careful balance between tradition and innovation.

• Ground Floor: The solid bush-hammered concrete base references the village’s historic stone architecture while providing structural strength. It spans over 15 meters, allowing the library’s boundaries to disappear when the folding doors are fully opened, creating a seamless connection with the square.
• Upper Level: Constructed with a wooden post-and-beam system, the upper floor introduces lightness and overhangs while accommodating discreet rainwater management. The metal roof slopes toward the square, minimizing the building’s scale in relation to the historic chapel.

This contrast between opaque historic masonry and the library’s transparent, horizontal fenestration emphasizes openness, inviting residents to participate in the village’s renewed cultural life.

Interior Design and Functional Clarity

Inside, the library is designed with clarity, modularity, and material honesty. Raw materials define its character: concrete columns, timber portals, and wooden infill create an alternating rhythm that structures circulation, utility spaces, and flexible reading areas.

The ground floor continues the exterior paving indoors, guiding visitors to a central service spine containing reception, restrooms, vertical circulation, and technical rooms. Upstairs, timber portals align with window frames, directing views toward the square below. The ceiling, composed of pine rafters and panels, forms a calm reading environment.

New wooden furniture accommodates digital museum equipment, delineates administrative spaces, and maintains the chapel’s spatial integrity. A large pendant light subtly complements the interior, maintaining a contemporary yet understated aesthetic.

A Cultural Hub for the Community

La Source Third-Place Library exemplifies adaptive reuse, heritage preservation, and community-centered cultural architecture. By connecting Rochefort-du-Gard’s historical legacy with modern functionality, NAS Architecture created a public space that fosters social engagement, learning, and cultural participation. This project demonstrates how architecture can revitalize villages, strengthen cultural identity, and provide inclusive access to knowledge and creativity.

All photographs are works of  Severin Malaud