With my brain being a bit on the fritz, a good book is what the hypothetical doctor ordered. And this wonderful library in Muyinga, Burundi fits the bill for a lovely place to grab and read a book.
There’s a lot of from local culture and the conditions of the site that went into this building, used in a great way that are both functional and fanciful. Right from the start you can see it in the locally-fabricated compressed earth block masonry which allows the building to match rich colour of the surrounding earth and tree trunks. There is a rhythm to the high-buttressed walls, each perforated to allow for light and cross-ventilation, and that further extends into the generous covered walkway. At night, the whole assemblage glows like a lantern.
Inside, it just gets downright sweeter. It’s lofty and inviting, with a great connection to the outdoors and steps that become bookshelves. But the piece de resistance is the hammock suspended overhead… what a great reading nook!
I love it. A great example of learning from the vernacular, using and building skills in the community, and creating a wonderful space through straightforward good design and a few touches of whimsy. Great stuff.
Lynx Thoughts 