Yale’s collection of historic sound recordings are tangible objects that can be seen and felt, but their express purpose is to be heard. The building’s monolithic exterior appearance gives way to a luminous interior for experiencing and studying the material within. Voluminous skylights float atop the gallery spaces, keeping the contents of the archive at a safe temperature below, but also isolating sound within zones of the galleries. A sunken courtyard provides natural light deep within the building, creating a space for contemplation and meditation while visitors study available materials.