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The system uses the timeless forms of arches, domes, and vaults to create single and double-curvature shell structures that are both strong and beautiful. In addition to providing earthquake resistance, the aerodynamic form resists hurricanes. The use of sandbags aids flood resistance, and the earth itself provides insulation and fireproofing.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt is a revival of the legendary library built in classical Greek times. The rebuilding of the library, by the Snøhetta Hamza Consortium, of Egypt and Norway, has returned Alexandria to its former status as a center for learning and provided the city with a landmark building.

The library was designed as a tilting disc rising from the ground, with four levels below ground and seven above. The facility provides a light-filled reading room with seating for 2,000 readers, six specialist libraries, three museums, seven research centers, three permanent galleries, space for temporary exhibitions, a planetarium, a public plaza, offices, a cafeteria, and all the necessary services required for such a complex.

The circular form of the library also has strong symbolic significance and an iconic presence. Its exterior wall is clad with four thousand granite blocks carved with letters from the alphabets of the world.

The Aga Khan Award for Architecture was established by the Aga Khan in 1977 to identify and encourage building concepts that successfully address the needs and aspirations of Islamic societies. The awards are selected by an independent jury which, this year, included Ghada Amer, Hanif Kara, Rahul Mehrotra, Farshid Moussavi, Modjtaba Sadria, Reinhard Schulze, Elías Torres Tur, Billie Tsien, and Jafar Tukan.

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Sandbag Shelters are sturdy and low in cost. Photo: Nader Khalili Inside a Sandbag Shelter: no compromise on spatial quality. Photo: Nader Khalili The Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, designed by the Snøhetta Hamza Consortium, recalls the legendary classical library. Photo: Christian Richters Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Photo: Christian Richters Inside the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Photo: Christian Richters   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.