Maya Somaiya Library

The site for the children’s library in rural Maharashtra, nestled between existing buildings and the school boundary, inspired a design blending study and play. Influenced by Geodesic structures nearby, we adopted Catalan tile vaulting for its material efficiency. Accessible from multiple sides, the library encourages engagement with books while traversing. Inside, varied seating systems cater to individual and collaborative study. The construction method challenges the dichotomy of global versus local, leveraging global knowledge for regional benefit. By incorporating principles from diverse sources, including the works of Eladio Dieste, the library embodies lessons from various geographic locations and historical periods, enriching the local context with global insights.

Location
Kopergaon, Maharashtra

Size
535 Sq.M

Design Team
Sameep Padora, Aparna Dhareshwar, Vami Seth Koticha, Archita Banerjee, Manasi Punde

Year of Completion
2018

Status
Built

Photographer
Edmund Sumner