Have you ever felt the weight of a thousand stories? Standing before the Perpustakaan Pusat UI you’ll feel it. This isn’t just a library it’s the Crystal of Knowledge a breathtaking structure. Designed by Denton Corker Marshall it won an open design competition. Its purpose was clear to create an international standard library. The old library was deemed inadequate for the growing student body. This new building is a social and knowledge hub for over 30000 students. Its location is central. It sits on the waterfront of the campus lake.
The design is inspired by ancient stone steles. The architects cleverly integrated building and landscape. Imagine a grass mound a five-story building with a concrete roof and insulating soil. From this mound rise granite clad towers. They are like abstracted stone tablets prasasti rising from the earth. These towers vary in height. The section facing the lake is eroded creating openings. Narrow glazed bands allow light into the interior.
The circular form of the library reflects the campus master plan. The streets and surrounding faculties follow similar patterns. Inside the ground floor is an open space. It encourages interaction. You’ll find bookshops offices and an internet reading room. The upper floors have meeting rooms and auditoriums. Curvilinear ramps link the floors. They invite exploration. The library avoids departmental libraries. Instead it promotes interaction. A plaza food court bank retail and exhibition space encourage students to gather. This space is more than just a library. It is a central point for university life.
The amphitheater by the lake is another remarkable feature. Mature mahogany trees surround it. It’s perfect for cultural performances and social gatherings. The library is environmentally conscious too. Rainwater is captured and reused. Wastewater is treated and recycled. The 2.5 hectare site retained mature trees and vegetation. This green design earned the library a BCI Green Design Award in 2010. So step inside the Perpustakaan Pusat UI. Explore its unique design. Discover its rich history. Let the Crystal of Knowledge inspire you.