| Name: Evan
Cindrich |
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| Firm: Edwards & Daniels Architects |
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| Client: The Salt Lake City Anderson/Foothill Branch Library |
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The Salt Lake City Anderson/Foothill Branch Public Library was recently expanded
and remodeled to provide additional public meeting space and to increase the children's
library area to meet the needs of the local residents and their children. With
construction cost of approximately $1.2 million, this 7,000 square foot expansion
was completed in March of 2003 by Edwards & Daniels Architects, Inc.
A new curved circulation desk allows patrons to drop off books by the
entrance doors while opening up to the interior and inviting them in.
Detailing on the desk combines maple veneers with stainless steel
accents for a contemporary feel and a sage green solid surface
countertop for durability. The desk incorporates custom sandblasted
glass monitor screens which relate to the glass used at the stairwell &
balcony railing system, and children's reference desk. A circular
ceiling "floats" above the circulation desk with pendant lights to
further define the space.
A circular room covered in a metallic copper-colored vinyl wallcovering
encases existing mechanical and electrical equipment. It's shape not
only eases traffic flow to the new children's area, but the curved wall
is utilized to announce upcoming events. Porcelain tile was specified at
heavily trafficked areas for ease of maintenance, and a "no pattern
repeat" Interface carpet tile was selected to minimize carpet waste, and
keep disruption to a minimum during installation throughout the new and
existing facility. Earth-tone colors and materials were utilized at the
client's request to tie into the existing facility and maintain a
timeless appearance.
The children's library area mixes appropriately-scaled furnishings for
the younger patrons with adult-sized lounge chairs and extensive benches
at the building perimeter to maximize reading spaces. Shelving is
shorter and oriented towards the reference desk to allow visual contact
throughout the interior of the children's area. The children's reference
desk is scaled to be approachable for the younger patrons and is
constructed of similar detailing and materials as the circulation desk
for design consistency. A simple, floating ceiling "disk", which is also
repeated in a circular carpet pattern, defines the lounge seating area.
Curved ceiling elements, millwork profiles and floor patterns not only
define various areas throughout the space in a inviting way, but provide
an unnoticeable break between existing and new construction.
The lower level of the addition is designed to accommodate public
meetings or gatherings with a pre-function space, meeting room and
restrooms. Furnishings were specified to allow for a variety of meeting
environments from theater-style seating and training tables to lounge
chairs on casters for a more intimate and casual meeting. Indirect
lighting is soft and inviting and the walls use a rail system to display
artwork from local artists on a rotating basis.
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