Zero Carbon Library and Daycare Design: SQUARES in Tianshui by SAKO Architects

In the serene landscape of Tianshui, China, the SQUARES in Tianshui Library and Daycare stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture and innovative design. Created by SAKO Architects, this 772 square meter facility marries the functions of a library and a daycare with the ambitious goal of achieving "Zero Carbon" status.

A Design Rooted in Sustainability

Facing a residential street in a rural town, the building minimizes windows on the perimeter to enhance thermal insulation and maintain tranquility. However, the library on the second floor embraces openness with a courtyard-centered design, utilizing frameless vacuum triple glazing to invite the ever-changing sky into the serene reading spaces.

Capturing the Dance of Light

The design ingeniously captures the dynamic shifts of light, cloud movements, and weather changes through the square-shaped courtyard, enriching the reading experience with a natural time axis. Deep eaves and a black corridor space create a mirror effect, amplifying the beauty of the sky and integrating it into the architectural narrative.

Architectural Harmony

The SQUARES project is a testament to symmetrical beauty, with plan and elevation elements all based on square shapes. This mandala-like composition creates an orderly, nested arrangement, providing both a functional layout and a visual connection to traditional Chinese aesthetics. The square motif extends to the bookshelves, which align with the windows to offer both uniformity inside and a seemingly random façade arrangement from outside.

Zero Carbon Ambition

This project is not just an architectural feat; it's a pioneering step towards sustainable development. With high thermal insulation, solar and wind power generation, and geothermal heat utilization, SQUARES in Tianshui is the first library in China certified as "Zero Carbon at the design stage." The initiative extends to the reuse of roof tiles from demolished buildings, preserving the memory of the land while contributing to the environmental mission.

SQUARES in Tianshui Library and Daycare by SAKO Architects is a groundbreaking project that redefines the boundaries of sustainable and thoughtful design in public spaces. It stands as a model for future developments, showcasing how architecture can harmoniously blend functionality, aesthetic appeal, and environmental stewardship. This zero carbon library and daycare design not only serves its immediate community but also sets a precedent for global architectural practices.

All Photographs are the work of Yuming Song, Luo Juncai