Canada Water Library, London

Spearheading an ambitious programme of regeneration, Canada Water Library resembles an inverted ‘ziggurat’ – a terraced pyramid of successively receding storeys – that partly overhangs the Canada Water basin.

The £1.4m building sits at the edge of a civic plaza and a stretch of open water. The expanding pyramid form integrates a compact footprint at ground level with progressively wider floors above. The building is clad in light bronze anodised aluminium panels with sequined perforations, interspersed with recessed curtain wall screens. This design gives the project a sculptural appeal and a striking visual effect.

Finished in bronze anodised aluminium, the structural sealant glazed facade and commercial doors were specified for the ground floor. A Visible Grid Facade has being used for the strips of curtain walling to the three upper floors, with top hung concealed vents and aluminiumdoors providing access to the balconies.

The library forms part of the vibrant quayside at Canada Water - a historic Docklands that was once a bustling port. It was designed to exemplify the importance of the library, education and community facilities for local people and focus on the new phase of regeneration.