Kent Panther Lake Library in Washington by FIVEDOT

Article source: FIVEDOT

Turning a casino into a public library.

Libraries are key parts of the social infrastructure in our society. One of the few remaining public spaces, libraries are places of sharing, learning and discovery. For this project, we were able to turn a casino, which took from the community, into a library; which gives back to the community.

This was the last project of the Capital Bond Measure in which King County Library systems opened 17 new libraries, expanded 11 libraries, and renovated 14 libraries. As it was the last project, the budget was tight and creative solutions were needed.

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

• Architects: FIVEDOT
• Project: Kent Panther Lake Library
• Location: Washington, USA
• Photography: Cleary O’Farrell
• Interior Design: Schacht Aslani
• Landscape Architecture: Site Workshop
• Electrical Engineering: TFWB Engineers
• Mechanical Engineering: Sider Byers
• Contractor: Oak Hills Construction
• Project Size: 5500 ft2
• Completion Date: 2019

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

We were able to re-purpose an existing building which contributed to the revitalization of an area that had previously been in decline. Panther Lake is a smaller community that is part of a larger city yet is distinct both geographically and culturally. It sits on a plateau above the main city of Kent and has one of the most diverse populations in the country. The community asked for a library of their own to act not only as a place of knowledge but as focal point for their identity.

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

We took a building that was closed from the outside by design and opened it up to create a light filled oasis for the community. Large skylights flood the reading area with light while the planters bring the surrounding landscape right up to the windows to shield the view of the surrounding parking. A welcoming entry and custom touches throughout the building have created a place for learning, gathering and sharing. Custom furniture from 16th Workshop, a local furniture maker, an excellent art selection and the fabulous KCLS library staff have made this library a true home for the community of Kent Panther Lake.

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Image Courtesy © Cleary O’Farrell

Tags: USA, Washington

Category: Library

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