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THE CITADEL
- MUNICIPAL LIBRARY -
Byblos, Lebanon
In the heart of Byblos, a city steeped in ancient history and cultural richness, lies a testament to grandeur and timelessness through its landmarks, which stand as silent witnesses to the passage of centuries. Among these, the municipal library emerges as a symbol of this legacy. A monolith carved by time: that is the ideology that drives this project's aesthetics, as its shape is directly molded by the terrain, the light, and the surrounding landmarks.
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MASSING DIAGRAMS
1- The initial extrusion of the mass takes the shape of the terrain while adhering to setback requirements.
2- A moat is excavated around the mass, drawing inspiration from fortified structures and creating a symbolic separation with the outside world.
3- Delicate sculpting of the mass's top maximizes natural light infiltration while creating dynamic light and shadow interplays.
4- Three observatories positioned at the corners, oriented towards the Phoenician wall, the park, and the historic port, connect the structure with context while offering unique viewpoints.
5- Bevel the bottom to accentuate the entrance and lighten the overall massing.
6- Natural lighting is ensured through a zenithal opening, 3 observatories, and a main elevation designed to unfold like a drawbridge.
CENTRAL DYNAMISM
Diagram of changes in light and space happening over the course of a day
SECTION A-A
PLANS
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1- Basement 2 plan
2- Basement 1 plan
3- Ground floor plan
4- First floor plan
5- Second floor plan
6- Top View
