Shady Hill School Library
Cambridge, Mass.
KVA | Kennedy and Violich Architecture, Ltd.

A new and powerful trend combines cyber space with physical space

© Bruce T. Martin

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The architect worked with the school to identify how information infrastructure within the library could provide interdisciplinary learning opportunities tailored to the school’s curriculum. The design responds with a new kind of library which integrates digital learning tools with books. The library offers areas for the display and construction of student art projects, storytelling, music and video centers, tutorial rooms, and computer laboratories.

A raised floor plenum provides power and data for the Internet and the school’s Intranet. The digital platform is designed as an accessible, ramped topography that organizes the different activity areas of the open library loft space. Designed with lighting and wiring raceways, its edges combine industry standard, adjustable bookshelves, and digital learning tools, including flat screen projection, data ports, and workstations. Display areas for artwork and objects referenced by the curriculum are introduced into the book stacks along with digital display surfaces.

The design creates different scales of space that allow students to develop age-appropriate independent research skills. The library provides spaces scaled for individual, team, and class group research projects. The circulation and reference areas are conceived as a living room with library navigation computers, oversized books, and reference book display areas. This living room provides a generous open space for special projects and meetings, and establishes a relaxed research atmosphere that redefines the public role of the library.

Formal name of Project:
Shady Hill School Library

Location:
Cambridge, Mass.

Gross square footage:
8,000 sq ft

Owner:
Shady Hill School

Architect:
KVA | Kennedy and Violich Architecture, Ltd.
160 North Washington St., Studio 814
Boston, MA 02114
617.367.3784 (t)
617.367.3727 (f)
www.kvarch.net