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  • 2024 IIDA Oregon Chapter Design Excellence Awards Gallery
  • Multnomah County Library - Holgate Branch
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    Taking cues from hospitality design principles, the lobby is reimagined to enhance the library's role as a vital public community space. The traditional entry with a circulation desk and security detectors is replaced by a welcome desk where library staff greet patrons in a light-filled, relaxed atmosphere featuring comfortable seating.

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    A custom-designed acrylic screen, inspired by the multicolored, shimmering scales of a butterfly wing, serves as an ethereal backdrop for the lobby while discreetly screening circulation to the upper reading room.

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    Following extensive daylight studies during the design phase, a south-facing skylight was optimized with sloped sides to reflect daylight into the center of the building.

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    The upper level features an open reading room designed for people, centering on providing choice with a variety of computer stations, diverse counter seating, booths, and a mix of lounge areas and tables to accommodate individual preferences and needs.

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    Book shelving was intentionally kept low to maintain clear sightlines across the open reading room, enabling library staff to navigate easily and assist patrons throughout the space.

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    The Teen Room design was shaped by teens who participated in the four-week virtual program “Your Library, Your Voice.” As the first enclosed teen space in the library system, the room was envisioned as their “home away from home”--a place for homework, artmaking, gaming, and socializing.

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    The children's section features a nature theme that fosters a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and sparks creativity. With abundant daylight, kid-friendly book bins, and varied seating, the design encourages children in building skills, confidence, and independence.

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    The early childhood interactive learning area features engaging elements designed to encourage hands-on exploration and promote early learning through play.

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    Inclusive design features include child-height handrails with tactile indicators at stairs and elevators for easy navigation, as well as culturally inclusive wayfinding in five languages with icons for guidance.

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Project Team:

Civil Engineering | Vega |  | 
Landscape | PLACE |  | 
Mechanical + Plumbing | Arris |  | 
Electrical | Samata |  | 
Lighting | O-LLC |  | Tech/Low Voltage | Vertex |  | 
Community Engagement | Colloqate |  | 
Acoustics + AV | Greenbusch |  | 
Envelope | QED |  | 
Experiential Installation | Figure Plant |  | 
Furniture | Pacific WRO |  | 
|  |  | 

 

Photography Credits:
Image 1: Lara Swimmer, Image 2: Lara Swimmer, Image 3: Lara Swimmer, Image 4: Lara Swimmer, Image 5: Lara Swimmer, Image 6: Lara Swimmer, Image 7: Lara Swimmer, Image 8: Lara Swimmer, Image 9: Lara Swimmer, Image 10: Lara Swimmer
 

Multnomah County Library - Holgate Branch

Category

Public & Civic

Description

Firm: Bora Architecture + Interiors
Location: Portland, OR

Design Team:
Jeanie Lai, Principal
Becca Cavell, Project Manager
Leslie Cliffe, Project Manager
Emily Wilson, Project Architect
Sarah Matta, Interior Designer
Kate Stuart, Interior Designer
Thuy Le, Design Assistant
Mike Manzi, Specifications

 

 

Images shown are previews, click the image for full resolution.

 

Winner Status

  • Best Of Category
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