Beijing City Library | CIBSE Journal

4 February 2025

Following the success of its Society of Façade Engineering (SFE) Award win as International New Build of the Year, the Beijing City Library is now featured in this month’s CIBSE Journal!

This innovative project, designed by Snøhetta, boasts the world’s largest library reading space, enclosed by a 16m tall pleated glass facade, the first self-supporting glass facade in China. The design integrates tree-like columns that support a sweeping roof, creating an environment reminiscent of reading under a forest canopy.

We contributed to the schematic design of the glass facade, terracotta plinth cladding, and glass skylights. Our work included Finite Element Analysis (FEA) modeling to ensure structural integrity and accommodate movement and tolerances. The facade’s design also enhances energy efficiency through passive solar shading.

Read more in CIBSE Journal here.