A welcome new addition to the University of Indonesia is the Central Library, designed by the international practice of Denton Corker Marshall. Through this new multi-purpose complex, the previously scattered facilities are gathered into one site conceived by the designers as ‘earth architecture.’ It’s mountainous form culminates in a number of granite clad towers with narrow strips of glazing which reference the ancient custom of inscribing words of wisdom on the surfaces of stone tablets.
The circular form of the library follows the architectural trend of the buildings and roads of the campus and from the roadside its rounded walls are concealed under a grassy mound, becoming part of the natural landscape of the area. Narrow strips of glazing are incorporated into the mound allowing a monitored amount of natural daylight to enter the five storey interior. The facade of the library, an impressive collection of contemporary structures, soar in an amphitheatrical form and are mirrored in the nearby lake.
The five levels accommodate every need of the university and its student body, in terms of academic and social activities. Spaces for reading and study, seminars and meetings are on the upper levels and below ground an ideal, temperature controlled environment has been created for the storage of rare manuscripts and extensive archives. A high element of sustainability is achieved through the harvesting and recycling of rainwater and architectural details which contribute to the heating and air conditioning systems through the grass roof and strategic glazing.
Every effort was made to ensure that the library will become the center for student activity by the incorporation of food halls, banks, retail outlets and temporary exhibition spaces. An amazing feat of architecture in which the pioneering spirit of innovative thinking which defines modern day Indonesia is merged in a structure which respects the cultural heritage of the country.
