ABA, with William Rawn Associates, completed the renovation and expansion of the Cambridge Public Library. The restored 27,000 sf building, designed by Van Brunt & Howe, connects to a new 76,000 sf glass wing, supporting the Library’s extensive collections and programs. ABA led renovation of the historic Library and an extensive public participation and review process. ABA led interior design and furnishings selections for the entire complex, including the children’s room and new meeting and study spaces.
The renovation transformed the existing stacks into a new Young Adults Library; inserted the Information Commons in the historic Reading Rooms; and created staff and administrative spaces. The addition features a lively Children’s Room, meeting rooms, and a 220-seat auditorium. The site incorporates an underground parking garage and restored public park.
The renewal has enabled the Library to dramatically expand its programs and services, attracting more than 2,000 visitors of all ages every day. This LEED Silver project has received over a dozen design awards and has been honored by the American Institute of Architects, ARCHITECT Magazine, and the Massachusetts and Cambridge Historical Commissions, including the 2010 Harleston Parker Medal, the Boston Society of Architects’ highest honor.
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