“Kutubkhana” is an open pavilion which also serves as a Library. It’s part of the “numaish” exhibition following the theme to reclaim public space and create an urban retreat.

The pavilion was placed amongst the shady trees which dot the gardens of Frere hall, and was easily accessible and visible from a distance. It could accommodate up to 10 adults apart from storage for books and newspapers. The space encouraged smaller events such as poetry recitals and book readings and therefore promoted interaction and discourse among people sitting together.

The form was inspired by the recurring element of octagons that are found in the landscape and the building plan of the Frère hall. The octagonal form was skeletal and layered in nature. It was made from scaffolding, hand woven bamboo blinds (chik) and a cement board base for the seating area. It was a sustainable design in terms of the materials used, which were completely recyclable as well as reusable. The use of bamboo blinds gave it a contemporary vernacular character and the scaffolding was designed for it to be dismantle-able and reassemble-able in multiple locations across the city.

The openness of the form extended its boundary beyond the     enclosure creating a space that was peaceful and inspirational.