Evolution Design reimagines Zentralbibliothek Zürich

One of Switzerland's largest libraries is reinventing itself. The Zentralbibliothek Zürich – home to over 7.5 million items and nearly one million visitors a year – is developing a new spatial concept that goes beyond books and study desks.

The goal is to create a welcoming, flexible environment that serves not just students, but the broader Zurich community: a place for social encounters, cultural exchange, creative work, and informal learning. The library envisions its spaces as an open hub embedded in city life – diverse, inspiring, and accessible to all.

Pilot project
As a first concrete step, a wider renovation within the historic building was seized as an opportunity to launch a pilot project. Delivered on a lean budget, the 1,200 square metre pilot serves as a live testing ground for flexible, experimental spatial ideas – always responsive to real user needs.

Four new spatial modules
Through a user-centred, iterative co-creation process, Evolution Design and the ZB team developed a refined yet impactful spatial concept built around four modules: an Events Module for hosted programmes and public gatherings, a Lounge Module for relaxed, informal stays, a High Table Module for focused individual work, and a Meeting & Collaboration Module designed for group exchange and joint projects.

Following a loop-learning design approach, the new modules are now being tested and the insights gained from the pilot will directly inform the extended project, covering a total area of nearly 4,000 square metres.

The Zentralbibliothek isn't just adapting to a changing world – it is helping to shape what a modern public library can be.