Curved wooden entrances are carved into this university library that Snøhetta has completed for Temple University in Philadelphia.
The four-storey Charles Library in North Philadelphia is sited in the heart of the university's campus, with the business school to the south and the science and engineering buildings east.

Rectangular in plan, the library building measures 220,000 square feet (20,438 square metres) and has a split-faced granite volume at its base and a glass volume on top.
Three different arched designs mark separate entrances to the building, including two on the north side, and a longer one stretches the west side of the project. All are covered in wood, which is intended to give the effect that they are  "cut into the stone volume".
"The building's arched entries and expansive plazas extend a welcoming invitation to all visitors," said Snøhetta, which completed the library with engineering firm Stantec.
Large expanses of glass feature elsewhere for constant, including its top floor that is wrapped entirely in glazing. "Its unusual geometry expresses a distinct identity," the firm added.

A triple-height atrium and lobby define the ground floor, and are also covered in wood to match the exterior accents. Slanting white pillars support the cedar-clad ceiling, are are positioned inwards from curtain walls.
"The lobby's domed atrium offers views to every corner of the building, serving as a wayfinding anchor and placing t...