LaPrade Library

This project utilizes a series of thoughtful, targeted interventions to transform an under-utilized branch library into a vibrant, user-friendly community destination. These interventions include:

• Relocating the main entrance to the center of the building to allow for a more convenient layout and establish stronger connections to the library’s natural surroundings. As visitors move through the new entrance area, they are greeted by an eye-catching new community “Living Room” that opens onto the project’s new exterior spaces and surrounding woodlands.
• Replacing and re-thinking 100% of the existing finishes and furniture to both modernize and bring a sense of joy and playfulness to the building.
• Greatly increasing the amount of natural daylighting through a combination of expanded exterior glazing and new rooftop-mounted tubular daylighting devices that flood the building’s central atrium with sunlight.
• Creating new outdoor amenities, including: an Entry Plaza with generous seating and inviting nighttime lighting; a Reading Lawn suitable for both quiet contemplation and group activities; and a covered Reading Porch with woodland views.
• More than doubling the library’s meeting capacity through a greatly expanded Community Meeting Room, a flexible Maker Space, and additional small and medium-sized meeting rooms throughout the building.
• Re-imagining the collections spaces to provide more seating options, increase sight-lines to nature, and foster exploration and discovery across all age groups.