The Calgary Central Library, designed by Snøhetta and Dialog, is a recipient of a 2020 Architecture Awards by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The awards celebrate the best in contemporary architecture and highlight the many ways buildings and spaces can improve lives.

Completed in 2018, the library fits seamlessly into the complex urban condition surrounding it, boasting 75,000 square feet of entry plaza and outdoor amphitheater.

The library is wrapped in a striking triple-glazed façade composed of a modular, hexagonal pattern. Variations of the pattern are scattered across the building’s curved surface in alternating patterns of fritted glass and aluminum, giving rise to shapes that evoke familiar forms.

According to the jury, the project is a “thoughtful, integrated and exemplary design that artfully weaves together the collective vision and values of design, client, community and sustainability….a true reflection of Calgary as well as this AIA Honors Award.”

The nine-member jury selects submissions that demonstrate design achievement, including a sense of place, purpose, history, and environmental sustainability.

This year’s other recipients are:

• Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Terminal 2 (Mumbai, India) by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill;
• Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship (Chicago, Illinois) by John Ronan Architects;
• Floral Court (London, United Kingdom) by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates;
• Glenstone Museum (Potomac, Maryland) by Thomas Phifer and Partners;
• Jishou Art Museum (Jishou, China) by Atelier FCJZ;
• Minnesota State Capitol Restoration (St. Paul, Minnesota) by HGA; and
• Tivoli Hjørnet (Copenhagen, Denmark) by Pei Cobb Freed & Partners.