Page 38 - spaces4learning, November/December 2019

spaces4learning BUILDING BLUEPRINTS
by a gently sloping wall that acoustically separates this quiet space from more public areas. The outside of the curve doubles as a space to showcase featured reading materials. Collaborative areas, as well as private study spaces, accommodate the needs of individuals and small groups.
A focal point of the reconfigured library is the main circulation desk and adjacent café, drawing students in and encouraging them to spend time in the space. An Apple-style “genius bar” on the second floor provides resources for tech- nology instruction, sitting at the top of a dramatic sweeping staircase. The staircase leads to a second-floor landing, providing additional study nooks and intimate collaborative areas. The landing opens to a balcony overlooking the main floor, and pro-
vides access to a variety of flexible spaces — from an open area for teaching to rooms for the middle school art department and a recording studio complete with a green screen. These are both separated from the main space by moveable dividers.
The new library has been transformed from a traditional space lacking amenities and daylight into a bright, airy, ener- getic space where students and teachers can explore and grow together.
Aimee Eckmann, FAIA, ALEP, LEED AP BD+C, is a Principal and K-12 Education Practice Leader in Perkins and Will’s Chicago stu- dio. Steven Turckes, FAIA, ALEP, LEED AP, is a Principal and K-12 Education Practice Leader in Perkins and Will’s Chicago studio.
38 NOV/DEC 2019