Library of the Tsinghua University | Mario Botta Architetti

Project: 2008
Construction: 2009-2011
Client: Shanghai Real Estate (Group) Co. Ltd.
Shanghai Shentong Underground Railway Assets Managements CO. Ltd
Partner architect: Ecadi, East China Architectural Design & Research Institute Co., Ltd
Area: 20’000 m²
Area: 16'000 m² above ground
Volume: 70’000 m³ above ground

The library is composed of a rectilinear volume marked by a balanced sequence of large
windows used to form the rhythmical composition of the façade. It is treated as a single, fullheight
body in which to insert the large circle of an overturned conical volume with recessed
openings. The library features an inner central space - the core of the library - covered by a
large skylight, forming a perspective toward the sky and a full-height courtyard faced by the
three levels of the reading rooms, which are sheltered by a screen composed of wooden slats.
The insulated masonry and the stone cover guarantee good energy performance throughout
the year, adapting to the hot summers and the cold winters of Beijing, while all interior spaces
feature linear and tempered materials to enhance a warm and essential atmosphere.