Add To Collection
Add to Collection
Northeastern University Snell Library
Northeastern University Snell Library
Boston, MA, United States
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
Other Projects by The Lighting Practice, Inc.
Northeastern University Snell Library
Boston, MA, United States
Northeastern University’s Snell Library underwent a transformative renovation to reimagine its role as the university’s 24-hour hub for study, collaboration, and connection. The mid-century concrete structure was updated to support today’s students with fewer stacks of books and more open seating, meeting spaces, and study areas designed for flexibility and comfort.
Lighting design played a central role in creating a dynamic, welcoming environment. At the north entrance, where expansive windows once framed rows of fluorescent fixtures, lighting was re-envisioned to highlight transparency and activity within. Inside, ceiling treatments became a key design strategy for distinguishing different spaces. Suspended acoustic panels, nicknamed “the butterflies”, were paired with custom drop-lens fixtures to softly illuminate both their upper and lower surfaces, improving acoustics while creating visual interest.
Several custom elements were developed to emphasize circulation and special gathering areas. A striking four-story stairway installation features full-length tube lights suspended from cables. In the lower-level event space, lighting was used to balance the dark material palette and establish a sense of distinction. Custom fixtures animate the space while recessed linear lighting above the black glass presentation wall minimizes glare. On the fourth floor, lighting was integrated into the skylight structure to ensure it glows both day and night, supported by wall-mounted track lighting.
The result is a library that embraces both its architectural past and its future as a lively, multipurpose center for Northeastern students, where light and acoustics work hand-in-hand to support study, collaboration, and community.
Lighting design played a central role in creating a dynamic, welcoming environment. At the north entrance, where expansive windows once framed rows of fluorescent fixtures, lighting was re-envisioned to highlight transparency and activity within. Inside, ceiling treatments became a key design strategy for distinguishing different spaces. Suspended acoustic panels, nicknamed “the butterflies”, were paired with custom drop-lens fixtures to softly illuminate both their upper and lower surfaces, improving acoustics while creating visual interest.
Several custom elements were developed to emphasize circulation and special gathering areas. A striking four-story stairway installation features full-length tube lights suspended from cables. In the lower-level event space, lighting was used to balance the dark material palette and establish a sense of distinction. Custom fixtures animate the space while recessed linear lighting above the black glass presentation wall minimizes glare. On the fourth floor, lighting was integrated into the skylight structure to ensure it glows both day and night, supported by wall-mounted track lighting.
The result is a library that embraces both its architectural past and its future as a lively, multipurpose center for Northeastern students, where light and acoustics work hand-in-hand to support study, collaboration, and community.
Product Spec Sheet
Were your products used?
Join as a manufacturer to add your products.