Norwegian architecture studio Snøhetta has unveiled designs for a 16-metre-tall glass-enclosed library in Beijing formed from pillars that create a forest-like canopy.
Located in the Chinese capital, the building was selected as the winning entry in an international competition to design the Sub-Center Library in 2018.
The new Beijing Sub-Center Library was designed by Snøhetta
The library will take shape as a glass-enclosed structure characterised by a collection of tree-like columns that support the library's roof above.
Snøhetta explained that the columns that run through the interior were designed to reference a ginkgo forest canopy ? a 290 million-year-old tree species that is native to China.
The library was designed to reflect a ginkgo forest canopy The tall linear columns will extend from ground level and then unfold and branch out at roof level into layers of abstract shapes that resemble a ginkgo-leaf canopy.
"The stepped landscape areas with the tree-like surroundings invite people to sit down and take a break at any time on their journey through the building ? creating an informal zone and the notion of sitting under a tree reading your favorite book," Snøhetta said.
Each of the building's columns will be fitted with technology that aids the library's climate, lighting, acoustic performance and rainwater disposal.
It is comprised of a number of tree-like columns
The interior will boast an open, undulating plan comprised of hill-like volumes. These...