• Aerial rendering of a modern urban park with trees, pathways, and surrounding roads, with multi-story buildings in the background.

Pages and People

Year
2024 - Grad

Location:

Hartford, CT

Use:

Main Branch Public Library

Objective:

Understanding the existing implications arising from the disparities created by Interstate 84, which divides downtown Hartford, alongside the pressing need for communal unity, underscores the essential requirement to unify the area. This establishes a clear rationale for introducing a main branch library within the defined site parameters as an initial step towards addressing these challenges.

Historically, libraries have served as sanctuaries of knowledge and learning. In the context of the digital age, shifting social paradigms, and evolving urban landscapes, libraries face significant challenges as well as opportunities. The proposed development of a well-defined main branch library aims to explore and redefine the role of libraries within the community.

This vision positions the library not only as a repository of books but as a vibrant social hub that promotes community engagement, innovation, and meaningful intellectual exchange. Through this approach, the new library will serve as a cornerstone for fostering connectivity, inclusivity, and growth in downtown Hartford.

Aerial black and white photo of a city with highways, buildings, and a river, with a red and white helipad in the center.
A detailed architectural elevation drawing of a modern multi-story building with surrounding trees, parking areas, and underground parking garage. The drawing includes landscape elements and structural details.
A detailed city planning illustration showing roads, a building complex, parking areas, and landscaped green spaces with pathways and trees.
A collection of maps and site plans showing urban development, park layouts, and transportation infrastructure, including a south and north sector, downtown alignment, main lobby, parking access, and Lightwell location.
Modern interior space with large windows allowing sunlight to cast striped shadows, a bookshelf, potted plants, and a view of people walking outside
Interior view of a modern multi-story building with open central area, walkways, stairs, seating areas, and people walking and sitting.
Interior of a modern library with bookshelves, seating areas, and large windows. Silhouetted figures of people sitting, reading, and walking, with plants and artwork enhancing the space.
A digital rendering of a modern park with walkways, trees, benches, and a red building in the background under a clear blue sky.