Best new public building

Ito's new library building in Hachioji City, Tokyo, comes across as a mix of hi-tech transparency and late Louis Kahn, its tiered façade of concrete arches set flush with expanses of glass. The interior spaces are a forest of fanned concrete pillars, showing Ito's delight in exposed structure, and feature curved banks of shelving designed by Kazuko Fujie.

Visit wallpaper.com on 10th January to see a full list of the winners from the Wallpaper* Design Awards 08 in association with Jaguar.