Chinese studio MUDA Architects Designed by the lake Library in Chengdu It has an inverted book-like roof and windows that extend below water level.
The architecture of Xinglong Lake Citic Library aims to embody MUDA ArchitectsThe concept of the building as a visual representation of a book that fell from the sky.
The eye-catching design was shortlisted in Commercial Buildings Category at the Design Awards 2022along with projects including A giant greenhouse was added to the roof of an agricultural market in Belgium.
Stretching along the edge of the lake in southern Chengdu, the sloping roof of the rectangular structure reflects the outlines of a nearby grassy slope that appears to be floating above the water.
MUDA Architects explained: “The curved roof deck is formed in the shape of an inverted book, which reinterprets the pitched roof of Chengdu vernacular architecture.”
“It also collaborates with the ripples of the water to expand the lake and merge with the natural context.”
The dramatic ceiling is covered in titanium and zinc panels chosen to create a texture reminiscent of fish scales glistening in the sunlight.
The building’s interior design aims to immerse visitors in a serene environment that feels directly connected to the natural surroundings.
Its structural steel frame is hidden within the walls to create a simple and open sequence of spaces that overlook across the lake through full height windows.
The lower portion of the glass curtain wall is partially submerged below lake level, enhancing the light appearance of the curved roof surface.
During the day, natural light permeates the water and enters the interior, creating what the architects describe as an “atmosphere of serenity.”
The underwater portion of the facade is designed to withstand water levels during the flood season and consists of four layers of tempered glass to achieve a high level of pressure and impact resistance.
A row of café tables and chairs placed along the glass curtain wall creates a waterfront reading and café area, where visitors can relax with a book or a drink while looking at the ever-changing landscape.
The main entrance at one end of the building opens onto a reception and gallery area connected to the central hall. There is a small theater and service areas across from the main space.
Visitors can sit on large steps at one end of the reading room with a book. A narrow meditation area is hidden on one side of the room behind a free-standing wall perforated with a horizontal opening at eye level.
“By applying both transparent glass walls and solid walls, the architecture introduces natural elements into the interior space to match the theme of ‘reading in nature,'” the studio said.
The library’s curved ceiling consists of an evenly spaced set of veneered aluminum sections to maintain the organic aesthetic of the interior.
To ensure the building achieves its goals in a uniform and consistent manner, MUDA Architects oversaw every aspect of the project, including architecture, landscaping, interior design and decoration.
in shanghai, Musical instruments inform the vertical lighting and bookshelves of the cinema lobby and library Created by Hong Kong-based Pulse.
Designed by Danish studio Norm Architects Main library with stone plinths and pivoting wooden walls.
Photography by the arc is there Unless otherwise specified.