Betar

Public Library and Archive Luís da Silva Ribeiro

• Location: Angra do Heroísmo, Azores, Portugal
• Solution: Buildings
• Type: Art, culture and sports
• Promoter: Governo Regional Açores
• Architecture: Inês Lobo Arquitectos
• Scope: Water Supply and Sewerage
• Area: 9.600 m2
• Project: 2008/2009
• Construction: 2009/2016
• Photography: Leonardo Finotti
• Contractor: 1 stage: FDO Construções & Construções Couto & Couto / 2 stage: Somague Ediçor, Marques e Tecnovia Açores
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The project encompasses the design of hydraulic systems - potable water supply, fire-fighting systems, and domestic and surface water drainage — for the building housing the Public Library and Archive of Angra do Heroísmo.

Potable water supply is ensured through connections to the public network, with internal distribution systems carefully designed to serve sanitary facilities, technical areas, and support spaces, ensuring functionality and efficiency. The layout of the networks has been developed to preserve the building’s sensitive areas, such as archives and reading rooms, respecting their organisation and functional value.

In terms of fire safety, a comprete system has been implemented, comprising a dedicated storage reservoir, pumping station, and a wet fire-fighting network, ensuring adequate levels of pressure and flow. The system also includes an external siamese connection, allowing reinforcement by fire brigade equipment in emergency situations.
The domestic wastewater and surface water drainage systems are based on gravity solutions, discharging into the existing public networks in the surrounding streets. The project includes multiple connection points, ensuring redundancy and efficient flow. The networks have been designed to avoid crossings in critical areas, using technical solutions that ensure protection against leaks and noise, as well as long-term durability.

The overall solution reflects an integrated approach, ensuring compatibility with the characteristics of the existing building while respecting previous interventions.