City Hall & Central Library

In the heart of the 12 storey complex is the 50m high internal atrium: one of the largest indoor public spaces in Europe known as the Citizens Hall. All local municipal offices, central and public desk-facilities are grouped around the atrium. The elements of this mega-facility are combined with a semi-independent rental office building at its north-eastern end and extensive shopping frontage throughout the ground floor. The central library has its own entrance and is located at the extreme northwestern corner, where its dynamic form imparts a strong character to the principal plaza. Inside and out, the structure is clad in white, porcelain-enamelled metal panels, measuring 85 by 180 cm. Subsequently, the whole building is set up by a multiple of 45 cm. The glass roof of the atrium is supported by free-spanning laminated timber trusses incorporating sunscreens, maintenance walkways, and light fixtures. The inhabitants of The Hague have nicknamed it: the ice-palace.