ENCINITAS, CA – A 26,000 sq. ft. facility nestled into the hillside with a commanding view of the Pacific Ocean. The interior design reflects the natural materials of the exterior and reinforces the architectural wave shapes of the structure.  From the entry lobby to the circulation desk and on to the children’s area there are interesting forms and shapes to capture the eye and sooth the spirit.

2010 ORCHID NOMINATION

Ambition: Develop an interior space that was a carry over from the outside building forms and materials. Create and environment that was relaxing, comfortable and inviting to the library users from the time they entered the facility, absorbed its contents and complete their library experience.

Accomplishment: Exterior materials were brought inside and complimented with fabrics, textures, colors and shapes that allowed the user to be comfortable, enjoy the facility and leave after an enlightening experience.

An audio visual area utilizes localized sound distribution to allow hearing only in the seating area below the dome shaped emitters, while the remainder of the space maintains the normal library atmosphere. An oval circulation desk featuring back lighted panels sandwiched with bamboo behind the work area. The desk is board formed concrete with a manufactured stone (marghestone) top including imbedded sea shells for recall of the adjacent ocean.

Indoor depressed reading area with a tree and built-in seats defines the space next to the stacks. Interior walls are board formed concrete, exposed wood beams and full height windows take advantage of the ocean view recall the exterior of the building and site materials and colors.