Project Description
The John Spoor Broome Library at California State University – Channel Islands needed a renovation. The new design integrates old with new, taking the existing mission style building and adding a modern steel glass canopy and enclosure to the heart of it. The library consists of two separate pieces: the physical structure itself and the canopy above, which extends from the plaza over the library and is anchored to the foundation through four steel posts visible from the Reading Room. The plaza deck, which filters light through the louvered canopy, also features a reflective pool meant to be an inviting icon for the entire campus.
Constructed with Bison Smooth Ipê Wood Tiles supported by Bison Versadjust Pedestals, the deck magnifies the newly constructed canopy. The pedestals adjust to the underlying surface with ease and were installed in a matter of days. The natural warmth of the wood deck complements the harsh architectural exposed steel. The updates to the library earned the building the Award of Merit in the Outstanding Architectural Design category in California Construction Magazine.
Architects: Gruen Associates, Los Angeles & Foster and Partners, London
Contractor: PCL, Los Angeles
Completion Date: 2008