Architecture of Knowledge Punjab University Library and Archives

Abstract

Lahore today is a palimpsest of various communities, distinctive histories and diverse worldviews. As an increasingly transnational city, Lahore is changing faster than ever. With its multifaceted cultural legacy and growing educational and cultural institutions, Lahore has produced some of the most internationally acclaimed intellectuals of the region. To sustain this practice, the city needs to accommodate spaces of knowledge where budding intellectuals can have a space for their pursuits. The city today is need of dire good third spaces that can provide for the recreations of the citizens. A third space other than the primary spaces of home and work becomes a place for the citizenry to come and gather for recreation. Today, these major spaces include shopping malls and select few parks and others. Good third spaces has qualities that can foster communities, be easily accessible, encourages good mood and be spaces for conversation and interaction. (Waters 2018) “Neither mobile/radio nor television can replace the personal contact, which alone can develop community life” (Giedion 1944) The research questions explored upon in this thesis are: - How does the atmosphere in terms of space, light, materiality create a mood in a readers surrounding for creating the interest in him while engaging in literary activities? - How can the palimpsestuous method reveal new relationships and design strategies that are meaningful and contribute to a sense of depth in architectural space? - In respect to Literature, what commonalities can be found within metaphor palimpsest and architecture?