University Library Case Study

Htet Myat Noe

V B.Ar-14
Chongqing Real Estate College Library

• Architects : PH Alpha Design

• Area : 28064 m²
• Year : 2015
• Location : China
Design Concept
• The design is developed from the elegant form of a lantern flower, drawing people
towards enlightenment. (as the library is a container for knowledge and a guiding light
towards wisdom)

• Just like the flower, the design is designed to be elegant and charming both internally
and externally.
• The curves of the library, extracted from the lantern flower, generates a form that
elegantly energizes users and refreshes the user experience.
• The center of the library is comprised of
multiple oval shaped profiles.

• Just like the pistol in the lantern flower,

the core of the building is connected
through a featured spiral staircase.
• An imposing concrete roof wraps over the building
from the east down to the ground to create a solid
wall on the north.

• Also as a backdrop for the memorial status. This wall

protects the main entrance area behind that
separates the library from its surroundings.
 Floor Plans & Functions

• Building has four floors above ground and

one floor below.

• The functional distribution of each layer

takes full account of the openness and
efficiency of modern libraries

• In the distribution of the collection area, the

reading area, the leisure reading area, the
private reading area, and the discussion area,
the convenience, and efficiency of the
association, management, and inspection of
the functional areas are considered.
 Main Entrance
• The north is the main entrance of the library.

• On the protected side of the wall, a forest of bamboo stems lines this transitional entrance
space that separates the noisy exterior with the quiet interior.

• The oval-shaped cut out on the roof provides light which casts a moving screen of
bamboo shadows on the wall during the daytime to create a dramatic, dynamic and lively
space at the prime entrance.
 Atrium Space
• In the center of the building, an oval
atrium combines with a continuous
spiral staircase to connect each floor.
The five floors open up towards this
central atrium, allowing the library’s
visitors to visually engage with what is
happening on the other floors.
Interior Design
• The graceful curve is outlined with simple lines. The red membrane structure "lantern"
highlights the visual guidance and focus of the space.

• The interior design of the function area takes into account the influence of sunlight
and landscape on reading, and the reading area ensures the corresponding privacy.