The TU Delft library designed by Mecanoo was finished in 1998. It has a green roof that slopes down towards the brutalist auditorium from Broekbakema (1966). The slope makes it accessible to the public creating an outdoor space for the whole campus. It is used for walking and lounging in summer and even sleighing in winter.

In general green roofs can provide a solution for problems concerning space in densely built cities. It also has environmental benefits as the green absorbs rainwater like a sponge, which then evaporates or drains slowly. This reduces the burden on the sewer system and creates a pleasant microclimate in summer.

Inside the TU library you can find a wall of books and different working spaces. Inside the cone are four levels of reading rooms and study spaces. Daylight enters through the glass façade and windows around the cone. The columns in the centre not only support the roof, but also provide hearting, ventilation and light.

Brain Teaser
What are the pros and cons of private versus public green roofs?

Sources
Library Delft University of Technology. (n.d.). https://www.mecanoo.nl/Projects/project/27/Library-Delft-University-of-Technology

Pintos, P. (2021). Library Delft University of Technology / Mecanoo. ArchDaily. https://www.archdaily.com/958636/library-delft-university-of-technology-mecanoo