A Multi-Faceted Customer Experience
Bronze Award by Building Design + Construction Reconstruction Awards
With one of the highest circulation counts in the system, the branch was in critical need of additional space. A two-story former senior center was re-designed to allow the branch to expand from 20,000 SF to 60,000 SF.
Key considerations included bringing natural light into the welcome area through a new atrium, the strategic use of color as a way-finding technique, moments of surprise and celebration throughout the space, and views to the outdoor landscape throughout the library provide the CML customer with the experience of being in a comfortable, light-filled, wooded retreat.
The DesignGroup team turned the challenges of the existing building into opportunities for invention and celebration; for example, reimagining existing structural cross-bracing into dynamic reading nooks in the Children’s, Tween and Adult areas or cutting a large opening in the existing floor to create a new light-well enhanced by a gracious grand stair to the second floor.
The library serves all age groups and includes a large computer lab, Homework Help Center, Ready for Kindergarten space, meeting and study rooms, multiple gathering areas and a café.
Time-tested insight. Forward-thinking design.
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Reflections on 2023
DesignGroup leadership shares their thoughts as the firm’s 51st year draws to an end.
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There is nothing more exciting than bringing a new cultural or civic gem to a community. We can’t wait to hear about your vision and understand what you need. We can even advise you on your next steps – and it may not be architecture (yet). Above all else, we want to build a trusting relationship. It’s the key to a great outcome at any scale.