This building in central Algiers was programmed for cultural activities, and currently houses a centre for contemporary Algerian history. The ground and first floors comprise the more public activities: an exposition hall, a 100-seat conference room and a café with a terrace. Floors two through five are devoted to other functions and L’Historial’s management offices are located on the sixth and highest floor. Flexibility of programming was key - floors were kept open as structural components were placed next to the party walls. In contrast to its 19th-century neighbours, it exposes its steel structure. The 26-metres-long facade, built of both opaque and transparent material, allows for play in the surfaces and in their depth.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture
