Appleton Public Library

a public library renovation in Wisconsin serves as a catalyst for future green development

Primary to the project is raising the library's significance within the community. The building and site are designed to act as a hub, interconnecting the neighborhood. Redevelopment includes parking areas, public transportation loading zones, the pedestrian forecourt, and perimeter planting.

The design also reflects a larger revitalization project that aims to reestablish native growth throughout the city's downtown. Omni Workshop worked closely with the architect to design a nature focused experience for the users. Oval building pavilions reach out to the community and embrace nature. Exterior planting nodes soften the facade and bring nature close to the buildings edge.

The interior draws in the exterior, calling attention to the sustainable aspects of the program. A sunken children's garden provides opportunity for exploration and to connect with nature.

Through the hyper-local site treatment, the immersive design reestablishes the native Wisconsin landscape while creating an enhanced sense of shared identity for library users.

Location
Appleton, WI

Type
Renovation
Addition
Eductaion

Size
110,000 SF Building

Project Team
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Omni Workshop