The library complex is conceived as earthen architecture, integrating building and landscape. Its granite-clad towers take inspiration from the ancient Indonesian practice of inscribing wisdom on stone tablets. Narrow glazed bands ‘carved’ into their façades admit filtered light while minimising heat gain. A circular mound with green roof covers the six storeys of book stacks, allowing a more stable ambient temperature and protecting rare material from direct sunlight. Reading areas and meeting and seminar rooms have dramatic views of the campus lake. The ground floor is a student hub, with food court, bank, retail and exhibition space. Pedestrian ramps encourage readers to walk rather than use lifts, and to enjoy the interior’s spatial qualities.

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture