Library Buildings around the World

Center for Integrated Learning and Information Technology (CILIT), Michigan Technology University,
Houghton, MI – USA 2005
182.000 sqf., € 26.300.000
With careful campus planning, the library expansion and renovation and new computer science building became an academic
student center for MTU. A mix of study areas and social spaces provide integrated instructional and information systems for both
graduate and undergraduate programs. Key features include wireless networks, high-tech classrooms, a digital studio and flexible
labs and research spaces. Its prime location allowed the creation of a visibly inviting gateway to the campus. From outside, the
drama and function of the grand reading room is visible to all through its large wall of curved glass. An enduring, modern palette of
limestone, slate and copper harmonizes with neighboring facilities. Providing a literal "window into the university" and supporting
self-directed study were twin client goals. The library was reconceived from a knowledge center to a platform for group and
individual learning. Prominence on the campus was vital, both to recognize donors and create a new front door to the university. An
enclosed pedestrian walkway links the library and conputer science building, beginning a system that will be extended throughout
the campus. Library usage was up 105% in the first year after the opening of the renovated library and the reading room had
become a 24/7 space by the second year of use. The design was geared toward the requirements of LEED Silver certification. Key
features include green materials, reuse of the library, special lighing systems, natural ventilation and facilities for bicycle commuters.
Full commissioning services completed a functional test of all systems and enhanced the operations of the facility. (SmithGroup)
Rose and Robert Skillman Branch Library, Detroit Public Library, Detroit, MI – USA 2004
30.000 sqf., € 7.300.000
Awards:
Honor Award - Historic Preservation, AIA Michigan, 2007
Honor Award - Historic Preservation, AIA Detroit, 2006
Honor Award, Michigan Historic Preservation Network, 2004
An award-winning preservation of a 1931 building designed by SmithGroup's predecessor firm - Smith, Hinchman & Grylls - now
serves as an up-to-date library and neoclassical landmark. Carefully restored elements include the exterior of limestone, bronze
entrances, and copper roofing and fascia. Inside, the library was reprogrammed to include a business center, children's library,
"cyber-café" and the National Automotive History Collection. Then historic painting and light fixtures were preserved and marble
floors, furniture, plaster and millwork were restored. Key upgrades to the building are new stairways, bathrooms and an elevator, as
well as all-new and state-of-the-art mechanical, electrical, security and telecommunications systems. To meet code while preserving a
landmark, SmithGroup creatively located new stairs and removed outdated central stacks to allow new bathrooms and an elevator.
A handicapped ramp was added indoors near the lobby area and new custom storm windows were added inside on the interior side -
both moves preserving the original façades. (SmithGroup)
Sheila and Walter Umphrew Law Center, Baylor University, Waca, TX – USA 2001
120.000 sqf., € 32.000.000
Awards:
Outstanding Construction Award, Association of General Contractors (Texas Branch), 2002
SmithGroup provided the programming, site selection, architectural and interior design services for this new law school. The form
and character of the building is based on both the "Baylor style" -- simple red brick and white trim -- and an archetypal Texas
courtyard. For clarity and ease of orientation, the dominant east and west sides of the courtyard represent the two primary
components of the school: the classrooms and the library. A clearly identified practice court serves Baylor's central trial advocacy
program. The library integrates the rapid shift from hard copy to a mix of electronic resources. Expansive, over-sized windows
featured on the building's traditional exterior tie the interior with its unusual Texas riverfront location. Baylor has a strong teaching
and practice-oriented mission, and emphasis was placed on creating responsive classrooms, principally for Socratic and case study
methodology. The practice court suite is clearly identified and central to the building layout and reflects its status as one of the
strongest trial advocacy programs in the Southwest. (SmithGroup)
Lawrence W. Inlow Hall, Indiana University School of Law, Indianapolis, IN – USA 2001
185.000 sqf., € 34.000.000
Awards:
Monumental Award for Excellence in Design, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, 2001
Honor Award for Excellence, AIA Indianapolis, 2001
Bronze Award, International Interior Design Association, 2002
Outstanding Building, Post-Secondary, American School & University Portfolio, 2002
Indiana University's award-winning law school is a significant gateway to the University's Indianapolis campus. Situated on a
historic park and located just two blocks from the state capitol, this campus landmark reflects the modern character of the
university while blending seamlessly into its locale. Designed to accommodate 800 law students -- as well as members of related
communities such as the bar and the state legislature -- the facility is an ideal, highly interactive environment for studying the law.
The varied teaching spaces accommodate Socratic, seminar, case study and other methods of instruction. Advanced, integrated
technologies allow instructors and administrators to communicate with ease and draw on international resources.
The 70,000-square-foot law library, located on busy West Street, comprises large scale elements including a stair tower and a strong
masonry expression. Inside, cutting-edge technology allows users to access an increasing array of hard-copy, electronic and
interactive resources. The academic quad anchored by a central atrium features a more human scale and provides an easy means of
orientation and a focal point for the school community. "The architects have been inspired and creative while remaining cooperative
and responsive to our needs and desires for the building. The result is the magnificent and, indeed, monumental structure that now
graces the southeast corner of the IUPUI campus." (SmithGroup)
Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, San José State University, San José, CA – USA 2000
60.000 sfq.
Awards:
Excellence in Construction Award, Best Project over $10 million, Golden Gate Chapter, Associated Builders and Contractors, 2002
Excellence in Construction Award, Best Project Overall, Golden Gate Chapter, Associated Builders and Contractors, 2000
Set upon a sloping bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this award-winning research facility's long, low and curving shape and
redwood siding complement the delicate, rustic site. Native American artifacts and legless lizards were present on the site, requiring
further sensitivity to its unique character. Public functions, including a marine library and seminar room, occupy its southern entry
end. From there, a corridor illuminated by clerestory links student and faculty areas. Technically complex, the building provides
areas for staging oceanographic expeditions, as well as adaptable and modular laboratories. Support areas include administrative
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