The Seattle Public Library – South Park Branch in Seattle, United States

July 19, 2011 Category: Cultural, Public Buildings

The The Seattle Public Library – South Park Branch designed by Johnston Architects pllc is located in Seattle, United States. The community’s vibrant spirit served as the inspiration for the design. The exterior courtyard or “plaza” welcomes the public and serves as an open gathering space. The fluid floor plan, abundant natural light and lucid study rooms bring the outdoor courtyard within. Cedar is used throughout the library to pay homage to the Northwest. While the solid blocks clad in red stucco are a reference to the area’s Latin American flavour. Projected images illuminate the western exterior wall with art work by Seattle artist Franklin Joyce.

The primary challenge presented by this 5,000 square-foot library was to express the community’s ethnic heritage, within the bounds of the very specialized needs of a library. The South Park Branch altered the standard library program for its size by opting for generous ESL spaces and an oversized children’s area in place of a large meeting room.

The Seattle Public Library - South Park Branch design by Johnston Architects pllc