Bibliotheque Nationale is a Beaux-Arts style building that has both modern and classical design elements. The building has classical elements such as the ribbed vaulting and Greek ionic capitals that represent wisdom. Some of the modern elements in this building are cast-iron columns and arches with the use of plaster reinforced with iron mesh. The use of iron minimizes the volumes and is stronger compares to the stone, so the columns became thinner and allows more space in the interior of the building.