noll + tam: valley hi north laguna library

‘valley-hi north laguna library’ by noll + tam, sacramento, california image © david wakely

based in berkeley, california, architecture practice noll + tam have created ‘valley-hi north laguna library’, a sustainable community center for the residents of sacramento, california. a v-shaped roof mimicking an open book becomes an interior spine which defines the configuration of spaces within the building. long facades are oriented to the north and south, introducing light through ribbons of clerestory windows, the need for artificial lighting is reduced and an environment conducive to learning is generated. program includes areas for children, teens, group study, learning and computers while a food court supports social gathering.

north facade image © david wakely

sustainability is addressed with an extensive photovoltaic system integrated into the tilted roof top which is inclined to the best angle to maximize acquired sunlight. the exterior is a thermal mass, insulated with concrete panels which also absorbs solar heat without transferring to the interior.

garden comprised of native vegetation image © david wakely

extended roof eaves protect from direct sunlight image © david wakely

staggered volumes with roof overhangs shield from various sun angles image © david wakely

south facade image © david wakely

east facade image © david wakely

central corridor image © david wakely

children’s area image © david wakely

lounge image © david wakely

entry at dusk image © david wakely

daylight diagram image courtesy noll + tam

infrared summer daytime cooling diagram image courtesy noll + tam

infrared summer night flush diagram image courtesy noll + tam