cultural

peckham library, LONDON

The "L" shaped design has the effect of creating a natural, sheltered meeting area in front of the library, which, combined with the generous plaza surrounding it, means that the library becomes the centre of a busy hub, rather than just another building on a street. The cantilevered overhang also shades the façade from the sun—an important factor as the running costs had to be kept to a minimum, ruling out the installation of an air-conditioning system. The bright glass on the north side allows a large amount of natural daylight to illuminate the building (further reducing running costs), whilst facing in a direction, which prevents the whole place becoming a giant greenhouse. The concrete frame is intended to allow the building to cool naturally, and the "red beret" on the roof acts as a shade for the high level ventilation opening and roof lights. The main public lending library element of the building (a double height space) is deliberately raised above the hubbub below, allowing readers the opportunity for quiet reflection as they browse the books or admire the panoramic views of central London and beyond.