The link between the past and the future. This was the main characteristic for the library of the Jesuits University of Deusto, located in Bilbao, Spain. A project in which Seves, the world leader in glass block production, takes part alongside architect Rafael Moneo, one of major names in architecture.

Two important pre-existing requirements that architect Rafael Moneo inevitably had to take into account: the new building was not to compete with the important role that the Guggenheim had acquired, and it was to manifest its public role and establish harmonious continuity with the university while distinguishing itself as an entity in its own right, with its own life in the park.

These were the prior prerequisites that prompted Rafael Moneo to approach Seves glassblock, the Glass block Division of Seves, to create his own "Tailor Made" glass block—a material capable of combining excellent construction properties with unprecedented aesthetic and structural potential—that would become the characterising element of the project.

The idea that guided the architect was to play on the varying perceptions of the glass block to create an architectural structure visible from a far as a monolithic, monochrome, neutral building to soften the brightness of the titanium Guggenheim; while characterized up close by its complex textures and nuances to give it a strong aesthetic identity.

By exploiting Seves glassblock’s capacity to create “customized” glass blocks, a skill acquired in recent years with the 42,8 x 42,8 cm glass block by Renzo Piano and the 30 x 30 cm Trapezoidal block by Studio Moneo-Brock; Rafael Moneo created his own special 30x30 cm glass block with fluted parallel patterns. Suggestive of the jagged motif of the Doric Hellenic columns, this design is also visible on the other side of the block, but internally, so the surface is smooth to the touch.
A creative idea to accentuate a classical architecture topos through a contemporary element, to strengthen the bond between past and present that characterises a library—a treasure chest of the past and a cradle of future knowledge.

The surface of the Doric block—as the new glass block has been called—is enlivened by interplaying grooves and reliefs that stick out about 20mm; the first time a tridimensional decor in relief was created on the glass block surface. This innovation gives new possibilities to use of the glass block in “sculptural” applications thanks to its charm and versatility, the complex reflections created, and the effect of a moving and multi-faceted façade designed by the architect for his building.

The result is even more alluring at night, when the Guggenheim is only present through the fissures, and the library, illuminated from the interior, is transformed into a lighthouse, a translucent presence that pervades the entire area.
The interior architecture of the library was developed around the light and view of the city. The reading rooms located on the ground floor and stories above, offer a privileged view of the Guggenheim and the river. The south façade on the other hand, has been designed without windows to contain storerooms at each level.

Doric glass blocks cover three quarters of the building and have become the main distinctive identity of the architectural structure.

The inauguration is expected for the new academic year, in October 2008.