Collaborative Library Design: From Planning to Impact

With more than 40 years of acclaimed library projects in his portfolio, architect Gisolfi (Finding the Place of Architecture in the Landscape) ably conveys the importance of two-way communication throughout the planning and construction process. Presenting ten handsomely illustrated case studies—five public, five school or academic—Gisolfi demonstrates best practices for architects and stakeholders to work together on successful renovations. This book takes readers through the life cycle of featured projects, from initial challenges through brainstorming and design to the assessment of the finished building. Each chapter contains three essays: input from an administrator or board member involved in planning, with basic tips for successful teamwork; the architect's evaluation of the project's needs; and a staff member's appraisal of the completed job's strengths and weaknesses. While projects don't include a range of economic variables or community types—all are financially stable East Coast institutions—the challenges run the gamut from severe space limitations to irregular site constraints to requirements for visual stylistic consistency while meeting 21st-century usage needs.