University at Albany Library Facility Assessment, Programming & Renovation – Albany, NY

The University Library concept design – including benchmarking, visioning, programming, facility assessment, and conceptual design phase schematic section and plan diagrams coordinated for structural and mechanical feasibility – lays out a five-phase strategy for transforming and improving the Library’s existing 254,500 square-foot facility designed in 1962 as one of two signature buildings at the center of modern architect Edward Durell Stone’s iconic campus in the suburbs of Albany, NY.

The comprehensive renovation approach strives to improve the visibility and use of the five-floor Library as a place of interaction-based leaning through the creation of functional, inspiring and forward-thinking spaces for patrons and staff.

Accomplishments of the concept design and programming include:

– Optimally accommodating the Library’s departments with functional adjacencies to staff, students, and collections resources;

– Providing a sound egress strategy that dramatically improves the floor area available for program space; and

– Improving thermal comfort while increasing daylight (through the introduction of three new skylights) and providing visual connections to adjacent courtyards through thoughtful openings introduced into the repetitive 1960s facade.

Client Comments: “Marie served as the consultant in our redesign of library public and office space at University at Albany, State University of New York. In the process, she demonstrated her ability to work independent or in a team with great creativity, enthusiasm, and professionalism. I especially appreciate her ability to work with a diverse and large group of stakeholders with different needs, interests, and personality. She was able to effectively assess a complicated situation, bring everyone into agreement, and develop sound solutions. Working with library customers, Marie actively participates in the American Library Association program. It is tremendously to have an expert like her share knowledge and experience with the library professionals.” Win Shih, Director of Integrated Systems at University of Southern California