The National Library consists of two 16-storey blocks that are connected at the upper levels by bridges spanning a day-lit, semi-enclosed internal 'street'. The larger, more regular block contains the library collections and sits over an open-to-the-sky civic plaza - a setting for 'outdoor' events. The second, curved block is for multimedia programming functions. The library has a number of green features. Oriented away from the east-west direction, it keeps cool with a roof canopy, external louvres and solar blinds activated by an intelligent temperature management system. Airflow is facilitated by natural ventilation zones such as the civic plaza and garden terraces.
Source:
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture, 2011.
