NARO ASSEMBLY HALL, KATHMANDU, NEPAL, 2010

Located in a Himalayan nunnery, the Naro Assembly Hall has a capacity of up to 2000 people, and includes conference facilities, classrooms and residences. Special attention was given to structural design in order to deliver a wide span structure with limited technological and material means.

Thus, the structure consists of a series of faceted arches that separate and support all other programmes above the assembly hall. Private facilities such as residences and classes are located above the assembly, supported by vierendeel trusses.

This allows the assembly area maximum natural light, ventilation, and accessibility, as well as preserving the best mountain views for the structure’s key programme. The façade is folded between the arches to form angled skylights, allowing a penetration of light into the deep floor plan.

Staircase cores are also located at the four corners of the building to reduce interference while providing easy access to the upper level and mezzanine spaces.