Tripoli University

The Al Fateh University, Tripoli is Libya’s largest academic institution offering free education to 25,000 students. The Library and Auditorium are centrally located, creating key anchor points for the University.

The size and scope of these projects set the tone for the remainder of the University development and when complete will perform the functions of National Library and National Auditorium. Located at the crossing point of the two principal axis of the site, and surrounded by landscaped shady gardens, the library will be housed in a 150 m diameter domed concrete structure, creating a cool interior responding to the local climate and sand storms.

The design embraces highly sustainable strategies for the conservation of energy and water. The two projects involve the creation of two distinct, yet allied designs which are identifiable symbols of the University and its future role in Libya and beyond. The central circular reading room is comparable in scale to the reading room at the British Library or the interior of the Pantheon in Rome.

The Library will be cooled by passing water beneath the sunken structure and a thermal stack effect will allow the library to be naturally ventilated.