topping of domes with apertures that take into consideration the solar orientation of light within the site to create a distinct atmosphere for each of the programs within . The internal infrastructure of these chambers see to it that the building accommodates a multiplicity of programmatic functions . They are connected through an ‘ indoor den ’ - a horizontal interstitial space that extends the length of the entire building to provide a new public space in service to the community .
Use of locally sourced compressed mud in the form of a rammed earth façade , terrazzo flooring made from local stone and timber cladding from local wood species , collectively reduce the overall carbon footprint of the structure . Through
a sitespecific understanding of the subtropical highland climate of Johannesburg , solar harvesting is utilised through state-of-theart photovoltaic solar panels located on the rooftop , absorbing sunlight and generating electricity . Geothermal heating and thickened walls harness the earth ’ s energy by storing heat during the day and releasing it later at night to warm the building when temperatures drop .
The architecture of the Thabo Mbeki Presidential Library brings together continental African thought and form as a powerful means of tapping into collective memory . This memory , embedded within the intelligence of the African consciousness , now sees a typology of learning and a typology of sustenance materialise into form .
“ My vision for the new presidential library aims to encompass both an African past and
an African future . It will be a place where Africans uncover their own history and identity . A place where we are empowered to script a brighter and more prosperous future . Through this wonderful collaboration with Sir David Adjaye and his team , I believe this building will become the epicentre for an African renaissance - a place of pride , celebration and future-forward thinking in which a strong sense of the African identity is empowered for further leadership in service to humanity .” President Thabo Mbeki
ROOF
GROUND FLOOR
LOWER FLOOR
Project Watch 15