Open-air library
Architects: Khadija-tul-Kubra & Ilma Wasty
Material: Wood, metal, chiks (reed blinds)
Size: 16×22 feet
The Kutubkhana (library), an octagonal structure with inbuilt seating and book shelves, is designed to function as a pavilion. It can accommodate up to 10 adults and has space to store books and newspapers. It is an ideal space for intimate events such as poetry recitals and book readings.
The skeletal structure made of scaffolding, chiks and stepped seating, is designed to be a modular construction that can be easily dismantled. The indigenous lightweight reed chiks were specifically chosen as they not only give definition to the Kutubkhana’s form but also provide a partial enclosure.
Photos: Humayun Memon
The kutubkhana is going to be presented to Frere hall gardens as a permanent installation in gratitude for the permission to use the space.
