1995 – Vancouver Library Square, Vancouver, British Columbia

This stunning architectural achievement by Moshe Safdie is one of Vancouver’s defining landmarks. The $100 million multi-building complex houses Provincial and Federal Government offices, the 1.2 million item library, and a variety of shops and cafes within the site. The Vancouver Library Square was the largest capital project ever undertaken by the city of Vancouver, British Columbia. It occupies a complete city block and consists of a seven-story rectangular block containing stacks and services. The highlight of the project is a free-standing elliptical wall that contains reading and study areas accessed by bridges from the central pavilion. The roof of the library serves as a large public garden, an example of Safdie’s efforts to introduce garden elements into urban settings. The library design was selected through an international competition and officially opened in May 1995.

Photograph Courtesy and Copyright of Derek Lepper – dereklepper.com