BELL Architects was awarded various projects at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library. These projects include elevator modernization and lobby upgrades, 4th Floor Administrative Offices space planning and interior updates to the 1st floor Popular Library. All projects were designed and implemented in phases to allow for continuous occupancy.
Popular Library - This interior project updated the Popular Library at the historic Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. The mid-twentieth century glass and steel building was designed by Mies van der Rohe. The Popular Library occupies 11,000 sq ft located on the east end of the Main Entrance Lobby Level within one of a few designated historic interiors in DC. The program required rethinking the nature of a circulation library regarding media collections. Staffing requirements needed to be reduced by 25% while circulation was expected to increase by 5% per year.
Research and attention to detail were crucial to achieve a functional and inviting space while respecting the original design. The design retains historic fabric, retains some of the original furniture and respects the rigid orthogonal furniture and lighting layout established by the original architect. The neutral color palate was retained which calms the space, relying on people, art and the collections to add visual interest and scheduled programs to add vitality.
The project was implemented in phases to allow for continuous occupancy by library patrons. Wired and wireless technology, flexible storage and display furniture and multi-purpose spaces within the open area allow for adaptability. The design provides flexibility, better organization and access to new media collections. The New Popular Library is more comfortable and inviting area for patrons served efficiently by reduced staff.
Goals:
• Create interior updates to the spaces that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing
• Increase efficiency with better space planning
• Meet ADA compliance and safety codes preserve and enhance the mid-century modern designated historic building
Key Firm Strengths:
Research and attention to detail were crucial to achieve a functional and inviting space while respecting the original design. The design retains historic fabric, retains some of the original furniture and respects the rigid orthogonal furniture and lighting layout established by the original architect. All of the projects were implemented in phases to allow for continuous occupancy.
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