The visitor centre echoes neighbouring historic architecture in form and materials, but with a contemporary twist. It is arranged around a central courtyard, with exhibition area to the front and administrative zone to the rear. Its principal structure is of cold-rolled C-steel, which offers good tensile resistance, combined with brick and concrete for support and stability. 90% of the steel nodes are bolted rather than welded, enabling a local rather than specialist workforce to be used, and facilitating future maintenance and recycling. Locally sourced recycled grey tiles cover the roof, and timber is used principally around the openings.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture
