Environmentally sensitive library structure with central atrium and glare-controlled skylight. Pilot program for ground-source heating and cooling. Art Commission Design Award. 17,000 sf.

The new Kensington Branch Library, located on 18th Avenue in Brooklyn, is a showcase for environmentally responsive design. A two-story central skylight atrium brings light into the heart of the building, reinforcing sustainable design goals. The first floor consists of the main circulation desk, main reading area, stack area and separate section for young adults. Also, there is a meeting room equipped for multimedia with a rear yard and separate access for after-hours use. The second floor is for younger children. The skylit reading area combined with north-facing glazed curtain wall bathes the library with natural light during the day. A simple software-controlled louver system below the skylights responds to the moving sun to eliminate the glare that could disturb readers. The heating/cooling system uses geothermal energy coupled with a network of heat pumps. The source is an existing aquifer 500 feet below ground level. Terracotta brick permits the building exterior to breathe. A German rain screen system protects the facade from water but lets air circulate. Extreme care was taken in selecting materials and methods of construction to ensure indoor air quality. The building was designed to have a welcoming presence at street level.

Completion Date: 2004
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Owner or Client: NYC Department of Design and Construction
Prime Consultant(s): Sen Architects