The Classic Carnegie Library is an American Icon. It's stepped entry and columns are the image of "library" to millions. In many smaller towns the Carnegie Library may be the one significant piece of architecture.

For those in the library (or library design!) business however, the classic Carnegie library comes with a standard set of problems: ADA accessibility issues, lack of electrical infrastructure, outdated mechanical systems lead paint and asbestos containing materials are familiar themes.

We are working with the Charleston Carnegie Library to help them triple the size of their library while preserving what is best in the original 1904 building. Relating to historic details, preserving the human scale of the original building and controlling project costs will be some of the challenges that we will face. We anticipate the design will be complete in Summer of 2002.

The library addition will be separated from the 1904 library with a skylit, plant-filled atrium. The existing exterior wall of the library will be retained within the atrium to preserve the historic context and to give the atrium the feel of an outdoor space.

View of the concept model.



View of the concept model. The darker portion to the left is the original Carnegie Library.
Click to see an enlarged image

Elevations of the existing library and the proposed addition. Porticos on the addition will echo the original entry portico to visually tie the addition to the 1904 library.

Exploded view showing the proposed addition. The addition will be separatd from the original library by a sunlit atrium.



View of the concept model. The darker portion to the left is the original Carnegie Library