DESIGN TREND: Take Wing

Spaces for distinct activities in pavilions, wings, or adjacent areas are smartly configured for cross-pollination without disruption in new and renovated libraries.

1. Richland Main Library, Columbia, SC, features a “Town Square” that offers flexible auditorium space with operable glass walls and the local history and film collections. The library’s first artist in residence, Marius Valdes, collaged community bookmark doodles to create the wall covering that animates the Garden Level Teen Center. CREDITS: BOUDREAUX, McMillan Pazdan Smith, and Margaret Sullivan Studio, architect; Garrett Rowland, photo

2. Waunakee Public Library, WI, connects the concept of library and community hall as rectangular forms intersect via a central staircase, visible from both floors. Reclaimed barnwood cladding complements rich wood detailing in the ceiling and bannisters that highlight local craftsmanship, including a custom live-edge boardroom table. CREDITS: OPN Architects, architect; ©2019 Mike Rebholz, photo

3. Allison and Howard Lutnick Library, Haverford, PA, respectfully restored the library’s older heritage spaces and brought many of these features into the 21st century in new reading and collaborative spaces, where original vaulted ceilings are reinterpreted in added contemporary spaces. CREDITS: Perry Dean Rogers Partners Architects, architect; Chuck Choi, photo

4. The new 48,316 square foot River Center Branch Library overlooks North Boulevard Town Square in Baton Rouge, LA. The four-story structure has dedicated spaces for children, teens, and adults. CREDITS: WHLC and Schwartz Silver, architects; Tim Mueller Photography, photo