Originally built in 1933, Baltimore’s Enoch Pratt Free Library/State Library Resource Center (EPFL) has recently undergone a $115 million renovation project. The project’s goals were to prioritize digital fluency, collaboration, learning, and creation.
The 290,000-sf building’s Central Hall was fitted with sound and video projection equipment to transform the space into a “Town Hall.” New spaces such as the Teen Wing, the Creative Arts Center, and the Job and Career Center were adapted within existing areas with a contemporary design language that complements the original interior. New conference rooms, staff offices, and workstations were also created.
Central Hall.
Throughout the building’s interior historic materials and finishes such as plaster, millwork, and terrazzo were restored and decorative metal elements and paintings were brought back to their original state. Fluorescent lighting installed in the 1950s was replaced with energy-efficient lighting but the historic light fixtures in public areas were restored or, in some cases, replicated. MEP and life-safety systems were also replaced and installed in discreet ways that were minimally disruptive to the building.
See Also: St. Louis Community College Center for Nursing and Health Sciences opens to students
The building’s exterior also underwent renovations; the leaking roof was replaced, steel-framed windows were restored, and the limestone walls were cleaned and repointed. Ayers Saint Gross worked with Beyer Blinder Belle on the project.
Related Stories
| Aug 7, 2012
How to win more state and local government projects
With a huge building stock at their disposal, state and local governments can be attractive clients, especially in these difficult economic times.
| Jun 1, 2012
New BD+C University Course on Insulated Metal Panels available
By completing this course, you earn 1.0 HSW/SD AIA Learning Units.
| May 29, 2012
Reconstruction Awards Entry Information
Download a PDF of the Entry Information at the bottom of this page.
| May 24, 2012
2012 Reconstruction Awards Entry Form
Download a PDF of the Entry Form at the bottom of this page.
| May 9, 2012
Shepley Bulfinch given IIDA Design award for Woodruff Library?
The design challenges included creating an entry sequence to orient patrons and highlight services; establishing a sense of identity visible from the exterior; and providing a flexible extended-hours access for part of the learning commons.
| Apr 17, 2012
FMI report examines federal construction trends
Given the rapid transformations occurring in the federal construction sector, FMI examines the key forces accelerating these changes, as well as their effect on the industry.
| Apr 4, 2012
Bald joins the Harmon glazing team
Bald has 13 years of experience in the glazing industry, coming to Harmon from Trainor where he was the regional manager of the Mid-Atlantic region.
| Mar 22, 2012
Moline Public Library uses copper as an exterior building material
Architects incorporate decorative copper panels to create the look of a heavy plate copper shingle.
| Dec 2, 2011
What are you waiting for? BD+C's 2012 40 Under 40 nominations are due Friday, Jan. 20
Nominate a colleague, peer, or even yourself. Applications available here.
| Oct 24, 2011
BBS Architects & Engineers receives 2011 Sustainable Design Award from AIA Long Island Chapter
AIA LI also recognized BBS with the 2011 ARCHI Award Commendation for the St. Charles Resurrection Cemetery St. Charles Resurrection Cemetery Welcoming and Information Center in Farmingdale, NY.
