In designing a special collections addition to a university library originally designed by Edward Durell Stone, one primary challenge was to provide a solution that would celebrate the library’s valuable holdings while respecting the original design. Stringent security and environmental requirements posed additional challenges. By introducing a bridge/connector between old and new, these requirements as well as sensitivity to the original architecture were simultaneously addressed. Pulled away from the original building, the addition was consciously designed as an abstracted form, in counterpoint to the original design. By placing the addition at the south-facing rear, a separate, yet highly visible presence for the addition was also established. This project has achieved LEED© Gold certification.

Location
Columbia, SC
Services
Higher Education, libraries, Interiors
Completion
2010
Client
University of South Carolina
Key Staff
Sustainability Certification
LEED Gold
Size
50,000 SF
Cost
$16 Million
Awards
2016 AIASC Interior Architecture Design Merit Award
2011 Historic Columbia Foundation Award for New Construction in a Historic District
2010 AIA Columbia Merit Award