PEOPLE'S CHOICE

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Entry Name: Garyounis University – Student Cultural Center
Firm: LEO A DALY
Owner: Garyounis University, Benghazi, Libya

The Student Cultural Center resides at the center of Garyounis University. Its unique location at the core of the campus allows students to approach it from the academic, residential, and sports zones. The building houses a theater, conference rooms, dining, retail, study areas, spiritual services, student recreation, health, social, and academic services. The Center is inspired by a nearby cavernous oasis within the desert. A canyon splits the building in two, with stacked layers of program enclosing a lush interior courtyard protected from the harsh sun. The solid west structure provides shade for the east building, creating a microclimate within the courtyard. This allows for extensive use of glass on the canyon facades, and facilitates use of the space for informal gatherings.