Architecture firm SOM incorporated principles from Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese design philosophy, while conceiving the new Chinatown Branch Library in Chicago (+ slideshow).
Encompassing 16,000 square feet (1,490 square metres), the new library is located in Chicago's Near South Side, on an urban site near a busy intersection and elevated metro station.

"The building sits at the key intersection of South Archer Avenue and South Wentworth Avenue ? the nexus of Chicago's historic southern and emerging northern Chinatown neighbourhoods," the firm said.

The two-storey building's circular form was inspired by the layout of neighbouring roads and Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese philosophical system that is focused on spatial arrangements and the flow of energy.
"The soft curves of the pebble-shaped, three-sided structure respond to ancient Feng Shui principles by matching the avenues' existing alignment without creating sharp, aggressive corners," the firm said.
"This form allows a fluid movement of pedestrians, abundant landscaping throughout the site, and opens up view corridors so that the building can be seen on all sides," added the architects.

The building has a double-layer glass curtain-wall that is wrapped with 118 vertical fins of varying heights.
The louvres ? made of anodised aluminium with a light bronze finish ? reduce heat gain and glare while maintaining views of the neighbourhood for visitors inside the library.

The roof, whi...