National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

Designed by ODA, the National Library of Israel is organized around a variety of platforms of activity that enhance interaction between the users. The library is transformed into a forum for cross-disciplinary conversations. The floating monolith form connects o the foundations of Parliament, the library underscores the idea that education and learning are the bedrock of democracy.

The main body of the building contains the most essential space – the reading room. The base of the building seems as an extension of the existing topography. It appears excavated, revealing the programs within. Traversing the public plaza in front of the library, visitors are led to a mix of spaces, including several temporary exhibitions. Inside the cave-like interior the reading room unfolds over 7000 square meters of open space. Broken into smaller areas, the building gives a sense of micro-urbanity. The perforated nature of the monolith performs as a viewing device for the surrounding landscape, the city and the public space below. Outside, the existing field is preserved and extended onto the library’s rooftop. From the roof, a continuous landscape wraps around the building, enhancing its sense of openness. The sloped landscape acts as a natural amphitheater, allowing for public gatherings and events, while a rooftop bar and restaurant ensure that the building is active from day into evening.

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

National Library of Israel, ODA Architecture, library design, public plaza, monolith architecture

 

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