Designing with Light and Stone: The Library at Byblos

For this latest episode, we discuss with Anna Torriani and Lorenzo Pagnamenta, founders of Atelier Pagnamenta Torriani (APT), about J. JABBRA LIBRARY AND R. NASSAR CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION. A new Library and Central Administration building at the Lebanese American University’s Byblos Campus that harmonizes with the natural rock landscape and leverages natural light. Its innovative design includes layered exteriors for shading and ventilation, a central atrium for luminosity, and spaces that encourage student collaboration. Sustainable elements and local craftsmanship enhance the project's community focus.

Atelier Pagnamenta Torriani (APT), a New York-based international design practice founded in 1992, is renowned for its thoughtful and innovative work on cultural and academic projects. APT specializes in creating transformative public spaces, often in underserved neighborhoods, with a focus on community-building. The firm emphasizes a holistic design approach, integrating local culture, history, sustainability, and technology into every project.

Anna Torriani, AIA, is a founding partner and design principal of Pagnamenta Torriani Architects in New York, known for her expertise in creating sustainable designs that reflect local heritage. She led the Joseph G. Jabbra Library Complex in Jbeil and is working on a net-zero project in Africa. A registered architect in New York and Switzerland, Anna has presented at prestigious venues and served on various advisory boards promoting public space initiatives.

Lorenzo Pagnamenta, AIA, is also a founding partner and design principal of this New York based firm, recognized for his artistic approach to sophisticated design and holistic architecture. He has led award-winning projects like the Mariners Harbor Branch Library, presented at prestigious venues, and served on the Board of the Swiss Institute of Art in NYC and AIA NY’s Design Award Committee.

Location: Blat, Lebanon
Area: 88,000 ft²
Year: 2020
Photographs: Bahaa Ghoussainy
Special thanks to Atelier Pagnamenta Torriani for supplying us with images and intro video.

Publications & Exhibits
2024 Designboom
2024 AD Middle East
2024 Domus
2024 Pendulum
2024 Divisare
2024 Archdaily
2024 Gooood
2023 Venice Architecture Biennale: "Time Space Existence" International Exhibit
2020 International Panorama, Vol 1, Art & Architecture Editions
2020 The PLAN Magazine, “Lebanese Culture the Focus of the New Byblos University Library and Central Administration”
2013 AIANY, “New World Group Exhibit”
2012 AIANY, “CHANGE: Group Exhibit”

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0:00 Intro Video
02:11 Project Brief
04:49 Project layout and diagrams
06:56 Concepts and schemes
16:42 Project Details

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w: www.aptarchitecture.com
e: info@atelier-pt.com
IG: @aptarchitecture

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email: whatsyourperspective2023@gmail.com

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Видео Designing with Light and Stone: The Library at Byblos канала What's Your Perspective?