CORE was hired to renovate, redesign, and restore the historic “Carnegie” Mt Pleasant Library at 16th and Lamont Streets, NW. After a series of public meetings nine defining project goals were developed, they are: to make one entry point, increase usable space, enhance the children’s area, improve internal circulation, improve efficiency and flexibility, improve experience on the lower level, address community meeting space needs, preserve and celebrate historic assets, and update infrastructure and code compliance. The new design brings light into the center of the library by creating a glass connector between the historic structure and the new addition. By removing large stacks from in front of windows the experience changes dramatically. The new wing will house conference and gathering spaces, staff offices, and mechanical spaces, freeing up the historic structure for stacks and reading areas. The new addition utilizes a terracotta skin that is appropriately distinctive and harmonious with the existing building limestone facade. As a result of incorporating ADA access, and utilizing the existing historic children stairs, a tranquil garden path is introduced to provide link and entrance to the new addition.
Status: Built
Location: Washington, DC, US
Firm Role: Design Architect
Additional Credits:
Client: DC Public Library
General Contractor: Smoot Construction
Photography: Max MacKenzie
Awards:
Honor Award, Washington Unbuilt Awards, AIA DC
AIA DC Award of Merit
