Rockville Memorial Library
Rockville, Maryland
client
Montgomery County Public Libraries
size
100,000 sf
type
New Construction
Facing a pedestrian plaza brimming with activity, the Rockville Memorial Library stands as a vital mainstay in the community, serving as a beacon even through the economic downturn of 2008/2009 as surrounding businesses closed. Glowing and inviting, the library welcomes all to enter and enjoy with extended opening hours.
Street level retail surrounds the Rockville Town Square, creating a constant buzz of life and energy that flows into the library. The library’s undulating façade distinguishes it from its commercial context, and pays homage to the mapping of the human genome which took place in Rockville in 2000.
Soaring Staircase
Entering the lobby from the heart of the Rockville Town Square, visitors are drawn into the oval-shaped volume that visually connects the two public floors of the library. A transparent, curving stair reaches up to a starry sky dimpled with LED lights.
Dramatic Spaces
Bookshelves are arranged in a radial pattern, allowing optimal sightlines from the staff service desk. A curving wonder wall separates the public and private areas such as this children's area.
Closing Thoughts
This dramatic, two-story lobby has a terrazzo floor patterened after the human genome and a starry night ceiling that evokes wonder.
Awards
AIA Honor Award for Architectural Excellence
AIA Potomac Valley
Award of Excellence
NAIOP, MD/DC Chapter
Historic Preservation Award
Peerless Rockville
Craftsmanship Award
Washington Building Congress (WBC)
