ArchShowcase 
Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. Ramsey County Roseville Library in Roseville, Minnesota by Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle (designed using Autodesk Revit)March 26th, 2011 by Sumit Singhal
Despite being the busiest library in Minnesota, this building was dark, unwelcoming, dated, and inefficient. A much-needed renovation and second floor expansion completely transform the 1990s building.  Ramsey County Roseville Library
 Before Exterior View The design uses the addition of daylit open spaces and views to the outside to accomplish the transformation. Open sight lines, efficient space layouts and technology, and select use of color provide clear wayfinding, accessibility, and self-servicing.  Entry Point SITE Conveniently located off the major highway that runs through this community (a first-ring suburb of the Twin Cities) and also near the area’s popular shopping destinations, the library is nestled into a dense residential neighborhood of 1950s era homes. The context shaped the form and orientation of the building. Instead of expanding to the north on land purchased by the library for this purpose, the architect suggested expanding upward, an option that the library had not previously considered. This space-saving alternative allows much-needed additional parking for the busy library and saved money as well.  Outside View SUSTAINABILITY The most sustainable building is one that can be reused. Because the community considered the existing building an eyesore, reusing it was not a popular decision. But reusing the existing building was a sustainable choice. One of the key sustainable strategies entailed reinvesting in the existing site and reusing 75% of the existing structure. The refreshed exterior and new native plantings and rain gardens for on-site stormwater management have proven to be an attractive addition to the neighborhood.  Rain Garden To transform the inward-looking existing building and its dark interior, the new design focuses on incorporating daylight and views to the outside. Located in an established first-ring suburb, the renovated building offers views that frame the mature tree canopy and screen the public’s view into adjacent residential backyards. Clerestories also provide ample daylight.  Reading Garden Other sustainable strategies included selecting regionally-produced and recycled materials, as well as high efficiency systems to save water and energy. The building is LEED-NC 2.2 Gold certified.  Framed Views SERVICE The library is designed for maximum efficiency. The most popular services—computers, audio/visual materials, and the cafe—are located on the main level in a central marketplace. Open sightlines and clear wayfinding allow patrons to easily find what they are looking for. Within the bright, white interior, select application of color designates program areas to provide easy wayfinding for children (magenta), teens (orange), and adults (green). These primary service areas are arranged compactly around the central marketplace. Self-check stations are provided throughout the library.  Screened Windows This approach to design for self service, combined with technologies such as RFID tagging and automated materials handling, helps staff to focus on interaction with patrons and provide excellent service with limited resources.  Clerestory Expanses  Interior Before  Interior After  Children Area  Teens Portal  Site Plans  Axon  Site Map View  Daylight Views
Contact Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle, Ltd.
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