Library Program

Tagore HernandezLibrary Program

Davis Square9 May 2007

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Tagore Hernandez Spring 2007 Davis Square, Somerville MA Library Program

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Table of ContentsIntroduction

Program Statement

Existing StateIntroductionSite HistoryCultureLocal GroupsLocationNodes and LandmarksApproachViews from SiteCultural NodesCommercial NodesLand UseZoningZoning and ADAClimateDemographicsEcology, Typology, ArcheologySite Field CardUtility PlanShadow StudiesEconomic ValueAccess to SiteCirculationObservationsProposed Building ProgramUser Group InterviewsClient Profi leObservation Summary

Future StateMission and GoalsPerformance RequirementsPR DiagramsCost EvaluationPrecedents

AppendixBibliographySupplemental Information

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Introduction

The Davis Square Neighborhood centrally located in Somerville is experiencing a new economic, cultural, and social re-newal. Shops are fl ourishing, coffee houses are sprouting, new restau-rants are opening, and a new four story building is being erected for commercial use adjacent to the Historic Somerville Theater.

A defunct city square, since the late 1980’s, has gradually grown out of it’s previously negative state of affairs and negative reputation (originally coined ‘Slumerville) to become a revital-ized and highly esteemed environment for all businesses and social classes. With signifi cant growth as evidenced by various Tufts Uni-versity Departments, renewed political clout, rising real estate values, and commercial growth, it is evident that the need for a local library has become signifi cant to support and sustain the cultural swing of things.

The site is in prominent square with close proximity to Tuft’s University, multiple buss connections, and the Boston T. The Library will provide a public space for the community and will continue to support all the development that is present in the community.

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Program Statement

FormForm will be dictated by both the program and by local vernacular with respect to use and need. The programmatic layout will have to correspond to the standard library index-ing system for simple use and universal accessibility. Sim-plicity and clarity of plan will be an essential component of the design.

FunctionThe library should be a public space for all social classes and community organizations that can take advantage of the spaces and enjoy the process of advancing their learning experiences.

EconomyThe building will be designed using economically and environmentally sound applications to assure and quantify the overall sustainability and longevity of the heavily used building. The budget’s emphasis will be directed towards interior quality, chiefl y seating, research, technology, and gathering spaces to ensure comfort and joy of use.

TimeThe collection of books and the myriad of media types will fl uxuate each academic turnover. The library shall be designed with fl exibility as the ‘point of departure’ with respect to concept development in order to allow these changes to occur more seamlessly.

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Existing State

IntroductionSomerville Massachusetts is an industrial city

located northwest of Boston and adjacent to the city of Cambridge. A population of well over 70,000 living within an area comprising slightly over 4 square miles makes Somerville the most densely populated city in New Eng-land. Once part of neighboring Charlestown, Somerville became incorporated as a separate town in 1842 and in 1872 the town was incorporated as a city. The ensuing years saw the city’s population grow in leaps and bounds, aided by the establishment of street car lines and a burgeoning prominence of heavy industry which took root in the city. Like its neighbor Cambridge, Somerville is defi ned by its city squares, which mark the neighborhood boundaries and also house unique centers of business and entertainment. Among these are Davis Square, Ball Square, Union Square, Teele Square, and Magoun Square.

The recent development in Davis Square poses new chal-lenges and opportunities to both reinvent and maintain the genus loci that the square historically represents. The past marked Davis Square as a cross roads industry. Now, the square has become a cul-tural crossroad for students, artists, public performances, and profes-sionals alike. The Somerville Theater, a historic landmark in Davis Square, is capitalizing upon the square’s new status as a mecca for fi ne dining and funky stores as well as its proximity to mass transit. The theater’s monthly programs, which include live and fi lm perfor-mances, attract a regional audience and enjoy renewed patronage. Restored and reconstructed in 1996, the theater refl ects favorably upon the square’s recent improvements. The new Library is impor-tant because it will help balance out the emerging commercial sector by providing a physical landmark that maintains a cul-tural use amidst all the shopping, dining, and business use.

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Existing State

HistorySomerville was fi rst settled in 1630 as part of

Charlestown. It was known as “Charlestown beyond the Neck” because it was part of the Massachusetts mainland, not the Charlestown Peninsula. (Charlestown Neck was the narrow strip of land that joined the two.) The incorporation of Somerville in 1842 separated the largely rural town from the urbanizing Charlestown.

The original choice for the city’s new name after breaking away from Charlestown was Walford, after the fi rst settler of Charlestown. However this name was not adopted by the separation committee. Mr. Charles Miller, a member of this committee, proposed the name “Somerville” which was chosen. It was not derived from any one person’s name. A report commissioned by the Somerville Historical Society found that Somerville was a “purely fanciful name”.

Traffi c on the Middlesex Canal began its famous route from the mouth of the Charles River in Charlestown (now Boston) to Lowell going through East Somerville, where several historical markers can be discovered today.

Historically Somerville encompassed many of the less desirable railway and industrial lands squeezed between the Charles River to the southwest and the Mystic River to the northeast. For all its problems, Somerville’s late 1800s and early 1900s industrial revolution left behind a rich historical record of Sanborn Maps, apparently invented in Somerville in 1867, and subsequently used for fi re insurance appraisal across the USA. The delicate, detailed original Sanborn Maps are on display at the main branch of the Somerville Public Library. Somerville was once colloquially referred to as “Slummerville,” referring to its blue-

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Existing State

History

-collar residents and its reputation for crime, especially in the city’s east, where James “Buddy” McLean and Howie Winter and the “Winter Hill Gang” were based. However, after the gentrifi cation period the city went through in the 1990s this name became less prevalent. More recently, lobbying by grassroots organizations is attempting to revive and preserve Somerville’s “small town” neighborhood environments by supporting local business, public transit, gardens and pedestrian/biker access.

Somerville has experienced dramatic gentrifi cation since the Red Line of Boston’s subwaysystem was extended through Somerville in 1985, especially in the area between Harvard and TuftsUniversities, centering around Davis Square. This was especially accelerated by the repeal of rent control in the mid-1990s being directly followed by the Internet boom of the late 90s.

Residential property values approximately quadrupled from 1991 to 2003, and the stock of rental housing decreased as lucrative condo conversions become commonplace. This has led to tensions between long-time residents and recent arrivals, with many of the former accusing the latter of ignoring problems of working-class families such as drugs, gang violence, and suicides. Incidents such as anti-”yuppie” graffi tiappearing around town have highlighted this rift. Recent months have seen the arrival of community groups such as Save Our Somerville (SOS), dedicated to improving relationships between old and new residents and ensuring that the concerns of the Somerville working class remain at the forefront of the city’s political concerns. SOS in particular is

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Existing State

History

headed by young residents of the city who claim to desire unity between all residents but also focus on the diffi culties that young adults in Somerville face. Their acceptance of people of different races, economic status and sexual preference has been questioned at times, but they enjoy support from a number of well-known, local adults, including elected offi cials. Many such community-led groups fi nd it diffi cult to attract wide support as many would-be advocates are forced to move to less expensive towns due to the density of the population and strong economic forces that have made Somerville a very expensive city to live in. In November of 1997, the Utne Reader, named Davis Square in Somerville one of the 15 hippest places to live in the U.S. This article illustrates how Somerville is in an era socio-economic change shared by many other working-class and industrial areas of the country.

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Existing State

CultureThough formally listed as being located in Medford,

Tufts University is also located in Somerville. The Somerville-Medford line actually runs through Tufts’ campus. The school employs many local residents and has many community service projects that serve the city, especially those run through the Leonard Carmichael Society and the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service, the latter of which especially emphasizes public service in Tufts’ host communities.

Davis Square is a quaint and thriving community made up of small, locally owned businesses, working professionals, long time locals, and Tufts University students. Located just a short walk from Porter Square and Massachusetts Ave., Davis Square is also home to a very active artist community. Davis is about twenty minutes from downtown Boston on the MBTA red line. The center of the square is a cobblestone plaza that, during warm days and evenings, is also a fun, family friendly hang-out featuring street performers and local artists. In 1997, Davis Square was listed in the Utne Reader as one of the fi fteen “hippest places to live” in the United States.

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Existing State

Local Groups

The Friends of the Community Path are working to inform every resident of Somerville about the path, and collect community feedback. The Friends will use this feedback to monitor the path design process; helping to ensure the path design meets the needs and desires of the community.

1. The Friends have held four major public community meetings, and several small meetings. They have participated in numerous community events (such as Davis ArtBeat and Tour de Somerville), sent postcards to absentee property owners, and canvassed door-to-door, and organized cleanup events.2. The existing path is well used & loved. There is an estimated 300 path users per day on any given afternoon during balmy seasons which attests to the heavy pedestrian traffi c. 3. It is called the Community Path, not a bike path, because most of the existing path users don’t use bikes on the path. The Friends have collected dozens of support letters from local organizations & businesses, and hundreds of support pledges from local residents. Somerville Mayor Dorothy Kelly Gay is a fi rm path supporter.

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Existing State

LocationThe site for the proposed Library is situated on the

edges of central Davis Square. It is adjacent to the Davis ‘Commons’, the Somerville Theater, the Davis T, and the well used Mike’s Restaurant. It’s address is formally called 1 College Ave but its major facade (lengthwise) will run along Highland Ave. At present, the building that occupies the site is the Middlesex Federal Bank which will be slated for demolition.

The site is chosen for the multitude of public access amenities for pedestrian accessibility, commercial centrality, and because of the lack of a much needed modern Public Library in an otherwise cultural bustle.

Future development includes the restoration of two nearby historic buildings, the construction of a four story building slated for fi tness and commercial use, and the extension of the Minuteman Commuter Walking Path towards the Charles River via Davis Square. This development with further establish Davis as a prominent commercial and social node in the Somerville area akin to Harvard and Central Square. At present, there is the East Branch Public Library within 5 minutes of waling distance from Davis Square, but it has limited hours and days of use, limited possibilities for technological equipment (wireless, computer labs etc.) for architectural infrastructure reasons, and several impending historical limitations that prevent re-adaptation to modern library cataloging use. Furthermore, there is a lack of storage, a need for a larger collection to serve all the students in Davis, and has become locally unpopular for its lack of day lighting, public assembly space, and accessibility. Having interviewed over 20 people at random in Davis Square, it was discovered that few people knew the library existed.

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Existing State

Nodes & LandmarksLandmarks are external references that are prominent in spacial location and provide people with a sense of location and direction. Nodes are

social and cultural points along a city comprised of paths, intersections, concentrations of people and so on. Davis Square is home to a few Land-marks, such at the First James Church shown below, and several nodes where people meet, spend time sitting around looking at other people, waling the dog, listening to live musicians outdoors during balmy weather conditions, and the ubiquitous eating and shopping outings. Major attractions include the bike path, small parks, popular music and bar venues, historic churches, open spaces for performances with ample public seating and shade, and great shops. Below are a few nodes defi ned by how often or how many people either stand outside or frequent; marked with varying red circles respectively. The shapes give a scalar indication of prominence, small for less prominence, large for great social prominence and frequency.

map of Davis

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Existing State

Approach The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.

The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.


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Existing State




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Existing State


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Existing State

Views from Site The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one stands within the proposed site. The views are photo-graphs taken from an approximate central location.

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Existing State Cultural Nodes

Local theater house showcasing plays from both local and nationally recognized playwrights, comedy shows, and various community dramatic performance. Located 1/2 block from proposed Library location

Locally famous McIntyre Booksellers. It’s accredited as a cultural node because of the local book, philosophy, poetry, and astrology groups that meet for local debate and discussion.

Local St. James Catholic Church, a historic landmark. The church will be on axis with the proposed library entrance facade and is 1 block walking distance from the proposed location

Nationally recognized for debuting of world class performance artists, bi-yearly Boston fi lm festivals, independent fi lms, and local art and dance performances. This landmark will be directly across the street from the proposed library.

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Existing State Commercial Nodes

Locally popular and family owned DIESEL CAFE. It is typically at full ca-pacity year round, seating approx... 150 people for coffees and sandwiches w/ wireless access were many people come to study and do online research within yards of proposed Library. This venue should serve as an excellent prototype for proposed Library’s open public space program.

Locally famous THE BURREN is known for heavy collegiate drinking, several cab stands across the street, and live Irish Music with revolving Irish Native musicians. This venue is located 1/2 block from the proposed Library.

This restaurant always features something one seldom fi nds in a restaurant- people eating along while reading and writing. It is frequented by students, visitors, and locals of all social classes and age groups. It is directly across the street from the proposed site and is also an excellent prototype for casual and comfortable public use in Davis Square .

Boston famous JP LICKS. People travel from Arlington, Medford, even parts of Cambridge just to get a lick of what this location has to offer. Aside from a well made product, its adjacency to the Davis ‘Commons’ makes for an excellent place to relax and have a treat.

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Existing State

Existing Land Use

The map below indicates current zoning and land use for the city of Somerville as amended in 2004. The proposed site is centrally located within the marked box. Refer to following page for closer view. The proposed site is zoned Central Business District which allows assembly and library use as of right. The area marks a concentration of small businesses made up of several small restaurants, bars, banks, grocery stores, movie rentals, beauty

in short, its a well balanced city node unto itself with a strong pedestrian and vehicular presence. Because of the close proximity to several bus connections, a T stop, commuter rail, and various cultural and social nodes, the site has been chosen to for a library to augment existing cultural conditions already in place and help maintain the social character that might otherwise become overwhelmed with incumbent corporate industries.

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Existing State

Existing Zoning Information

MARCELO TAGORE HERNANDEZ

Library 1 College Ave Somerville MA

780 CMR 1993 BOCA 6th Edition

Assembly A-3 Storage

32,336 sf 3 stry. 40’

75% X

11,550/fl r 3 stry. 40’ (type 3A)

100% For buildings greater than 2 stry.

34,650 - 3 stry. 32,336 - 3 stry.

0 hrs 0 hrs 2 hrs 0 hrs

N.L.. N.L.. N.L..15% protected

32,336 sf

100%

Library

(18+17) 8184 sf

MARCELO TAGORE HERNANDEZ

1 College Ave Somerville MA

CBD

155’ 51’

Mass Sate Building Code

n/a

Institutional Use *(SPSR)

N/A N/A 2.010’ + 2’ ea. fl oor above ground fl oor

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Existing State

Zoning + Accessibility

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Existing State

ClimateThe data below describes 10 year average climate conditions for the city of Somerville.

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Existing State

Political and Social Demographics- City of Somerville, 2004

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 2004 Census, Podunk

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Existing State

Ecology, Topography, and Archeological TracesSocial awareness with respect to ecology in the Davis

Square area is relatively minor. There are no locally organized groups nor does the City of Somerville have any ecological initiatives in motion. There are small and privately organized vegetable gardens and a handful of developers who have initiated sustainable practices. The area is characterized as a prototypical

suburban area with average levels of density about approximately %10 of ‘green space’. Topography in Somerville varies a great deal with ranges of +/-40’ in elevation. The PROPOSED SITE is considered to be fl at with elevation of 15’ above sea level. There are no archeological traces with the exception of now covered railroad tracks which is the “bike path” that runs along the North Elevation of the proposed building site.

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Existing StateSite Data- Field Card

From the City of Somerville March 2007.From the City of Somerville March 2007.

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Existing State

Utility Plan

Utility Plan was not available. A copy of existing ultilies can be purchased from local authorities.

Current urban siting has a sewage connection to city the street sewage that will continue to service utilities. Electrical service will be similar to existing conditions.

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9 AM 12 AM 3 PM 6 PM

WinterSoltice

SummerSoltice

150’150’

Existing State

Shadow StudiesBelow is are a series of diagrams that represent day lighting in Davis Square during Summer and

Winter soltices. The study shows that there are few times when the Southern facade gets blocked by any neighboring buildings. Emphasis will need to be paid to the amount of exposure on the Southern facade to avoid glare with the use of screening devices and judicious placement of fenestration around reading areas, computer lab spaces, offi ces, etc. The advantage here is that the prominent facade along Highland Ave is the one with most light source.

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Existing State

Economic ValueBelow is are diagrams depicting adacent properties and their

associated land values. They show recent appraisals for resturants, banks, business offi ce complexes, etc. The Proposed Library property is valued at $1.3 million compared to neighboring properties whose vlaues range from $1.2 to $1.8 million. This indicates high value in and around the area which is a sign of a healthy community with rising real estate values. The property will only increase in value if a library gets built. Its community value will make the square more prominent and help to increase the vlaue of all the neighrboring land vlaues. The 8 Bus Connections and 2 T-Stop locations have an effect on the local prices because of close proximity to so many transportation notes.

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Existing State

Access to Site

Below is a map and a corresponding chart that show all the public transit routes. There are several ways of getting to and from the site, furthermore, Highland Ave has a parking lane that could be rezoned for pick-up and drop-off. There is no on site parking. Using the BPL as precedent for a public library with no parking, it is evident that what makes a successful public building is its location, with respect to adjacency social

LibraryLibrary

DavisDavisDavisT Stop

Bus Lines

RadialDistances

1 mile1 mile 1/2 mile1/2 mile

and commercial nodes, and to public transportation. Conclusion for this site analysis indicates that this site is appropriate because despite the lack of parking there are 8 Bus Connections and 2 T-Stops. Employee parking will be in adjacent parking lot 1 block away.

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Existing State

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

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Existing State

Observations10 site visits. Weekdays and Weekends. Times varied

from 9AM thorugh 10 PM.

ArchitecturalDavis Square has a charming feel about it. The majority of build-ings in this area are from 1930’s. Simple brick facades with little oranmentation. Most facades have been retrofi tted with store front save a few historically preserved buildings. Lots of new and ‘funky’ facadectamy shows openess to new design ideas and public expression. Brand new 4 story building going up directly across the street for offi ce space down in ‘contemporary region-alism.’ The proposed site is abutted by several edge conditions and traffi c fl ows. Facades will be very signifi cant players the urban planning by creating hybridized edge condtions.

CasualIts a cool spot without question. Challenge is in defi ning this type of genus loci. “What makes cool spaces” is what designers need to focus on. Residents like the feel, one of both comfort, tradition, and prgression, and they want to keep this feeeling, not change it or loose it with too many ofi ces going up...

IssuesParking seems to be everyone’s issue in Davis, patrons and busi-ness owners alike, The proposed Library won’t be exempt from having to deal with this issue. Crime is very low, weather condi-tions are big environmental concern. Residents show growing concerns for offi ce developments, the proposed library will ap-pease and balance this issuse for time to come.

AdaptationsInteractive moments- people use MBTA vent/lighting shaft as seating or as platform for muscial performances. Not much else.

Dispalys of SelfThere signs painted on the fl oor. Several pavers have been re-placed with artist made glazed bricks that speak of local craft-manship and community.Full scale human fi gure sculptures are dotted around the square and the occasionally get painted on their faces in fl attering and endearing ways. Some electrical junction boxes have been brightly painted by high school artists by commision of the town. Some murals exisit around the square ranging from small to ‘huge’ covering hundreds of square feet of wall space. Little graphitti can be found save the ubiquitous marked up benches of Tom+Jane. This is square where one can unoffensively fi nd shoes hanging up in the power lines, smile, and know that this is a friendly place to be in.

Public MessagesSignage has strong presence in Davis. Everyone is competing to be seen and heard. Some small shops of various services put signs out on the sidewalk to advertise a sale, an upcoming show or artist, 1/2 price for manicures, Planned Parenthood meetings, etc. Poeple perform all the time. 6 months out of the year directly across the street. This could be percieved as both a charm and a sound issue for library patrons. Many posters of art performances, apartments, lost dogs, etc. found in and out of establishments, on posts, bins, and so on.

CluesThere are traces of usage by the myriad of trash and recylcing bins in the area. They usually fi ll up daily (after seeing it over the course of a day) which is telling of heavy pedestrian use and eating/drinking while walking.

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Existing State

Proposed BuildingThe drawing shows the building footprint drawn dashed within the boundaries of the site setbacks. The 32,500 sf building complies

with local zoning ordinance. It will replace the existing footprint of the bank building that currently exists. The proposed site and corresponding building plan will need to go through a variance process with both the City of Somerville Zoning Department and the MBTA for parking in the rear. At present there is an easement on MBTA’s property that does not allow accessible parking as of right. The plan calls for 6 parking spaces and 2 handicap spaces along the North Facade adjacent to existing public bicycle storage. Proposed parking will be reserved for employees and handicapped patrons. Listed below are the programmatic elements for proposed Somerville Public Branch Library.

LIBRARY PROGRAM - TENANT /PUBLIC OCCUPIABLE AREAENTRY VESTIBULE

GALLERY SPACE (Private and Public)

CHECK OUT AREA

CAFE AREA

REFERENCE DESK

COMPUTER LAB

READING SPACES (Lounge and Formal)

TABLE SEATING

PUBLIC USE ASSEMBLY ROOMS

CHILDREN’S READING SPACE

AUDIO LABORATORY

PERIODICALS

MAIN COLLECTION STACKS

REFERENCE STACKS

AUDIO VISUAL MEDIA

PHOTOCOPYING AREA

REST ROOMS

STORAGE ROOMS

JANITOR’S CLOSETS

LIBRARIANS OFFICES

KITCHENETTE

Highland Ave

College A

ve

PROPOSEDPARKING

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Existing State

User Group Interviews

A variety of interviews were conducted to gain information regarding the patrons and needs. Their voices should be taken into consideration for the overall design of the proposed library.

The main concern for librarians is space allocation and subsequent traffi c fl ows for storage, use, and maintanance. This is a direct result of prioritizing too much on end users and stacks than on emoloyee narrative. There needs to be well balanced hierchy of program emphasis between public, private, assembly, and storage spaces.

Storage space is required to handle less frequently used materials, electronic peripherals, and maintainance equipment. According to the librarains, most branches provide inadequate storage square footage not realing how much it is needed, particularly to accomodate growth.

The young persons reading spaces require special attention. More young students and families are coming to use libraries for mutiple funtions in additon to reading. Libraries serve several educational functions in the community and require spaces that suit fl exible needs. Issues include space, noise levels, safety, relationship and proximity to security points etc.

There were many visitors that mention how often they take advantage of free admission to see revolving art shows. The proposed library will have to ceate a gallery.e enough computer nodes as well as wireless connection.

Many local libraries offer activities like crafts in addition to reaadin. The design of the library should take into consideration the control of noise levels created by children to maintain peace of mind for the rest of the users.

Security is a key issue. The proposed library has mutiple entrances and a split program. With this added level of complexity, the diversity of people, and mutiple circulation and information nodes, there needs to be particular emphasis on how to minimize egress into an easily controlled cirical mass.

Users mentioned a sense of learning spirit and spacesness. The proposed library should have a signifi cant space within the envolope that connects all fl oors to give users a building the think about. One that challenges their imagination spatially and that provides the nieghborhood a positive architectectural gesture that they can be proud of.

Conclusion

The interviews were helpful, short fi nding fact sessions that shed a lot of light on issues that I did’t think were issues. People seem to be more impressionable with respect to orientation, ease of use, collection, and serice- in that order. Most do no ever see the building as something that needs to be changed; just storage, or light, or noise level, or... So it’s clear that the architecture plays a tremendous role in providing a user friendly place to engauge within. My mission was not as infl uenced as was my performance requirments by all the interviews I did. In fact, the performance requirements were shaped by interviews.

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Existing State

Client Profi leThe client for the proposed West Branch Somerville Library is

the city of Somerville. Major challenges for realizing this project include relocating existing tenants (Essex Bank Headquarters), redefi ning zoning through the adjacent MBTA easement for handicap and 6 employee park-ing spaces, and fi nance. The designers, the city offi cials, and the public must work together to accomplish the mutual goal of creating a commu-nity destination in Davis Square to maintain its social and cultural signifi -cance. This over arching goal will assure community pride for current and future generations.

Specifi cally, the client is the youth of Somerville who are made up of local universities and public schools. The project should keep these users, and the staff respectively, as the focal point by engendering a sense of shelter and scholarship- “if you interest the kids, they will bring their parents.”

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Existing State

Observation Summary

The proposed Library will replace an existing banking building. The building serves no direct social function because it is a headquarters banking institution that does not take walk-in cli-entele. Architecturally, is in introverted with no fenestration along the sidewalk and a tight band of windows at clerestory height. The current building is not inviting and does not add the overall quality of life for the square like most buildings do. People walk past the building and are confronted with solid masonry with no indication as to what happens inside. Its windows are tainted very dark and there is little to no evidence of use either during day or night. The proposed Library will open up this part of the busy square and cre-ate a new social node with transparent and inviting architecture.

Despite what local demographic studies indicate, the square is predominantly comprised of young people ranging from 21-35 years of age. Senior citizens rarely frequent the square. Families can be seen during festival events and during dining hours after normal work hours. This observation can be taken from either face value, from the various inquiries that have been taken from students in and around the area who frequent the square, or from tenured business owners who know the site well and who know who their patrons are.

The majority of services there are either food, beverage or entertainment oriented- in short, Davis Square is a youthful envi-ronment. This spirit needs to be accounted for when thinking about the image, funtionality, and patron base of the proposed Library. It should not be conservative nor should it pander to any traditional architectural attitudes. The place is ‘funky’ with newly fi tted out pubs outfi tting some of the latest modern materials and methods. At present, a new 4 story building is being constructed by Paul Lukez that represents forward thinking ideas of architecture but is also careful in that it does not come across ‘corporate’ looking. There is some essential language being used such at material, bays along the main facade, handsome cornices, etc.

The most popular places in Davis, whose business own-ers taut great success, are the ones that feature lounge siting, quick food, good light for studying, and nice comfortable places to sit and be seen while spending time either alone or with so-cial groups. Examples include Mike’s Cafe, Diesel Cafe, Star-bucks, Davis Square ‘Commons’, seating along the bike path, Somerville Theater, Someday Cafe, and Diva Lounge which was recently published in Record, Architecture, and Boston Archi-tecture to name a few publications. This type of ‘relaxed type en-vironment’ is a critical point of departure for the design concept of the proposed Library to ensure quality of comfort. Other key elements are operable facades that engender total outdoor space, good quality of light, medium height ceilings, and a plethora of comfortable seating.

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Future State

Mission Statement

The mission for this project is to support both East and West Branch Somerville Libraries with a modern facility that meets current demands for literary circulation, technological resources and public assembly space.

Goal 1The new library will have a similar aesthetic and maintain

the existing urban language of Davis Square.

Goal 2The new library will have (2) two major circulation paths,

one for library usage and one for a public cafe space.

Goal 3The new library will allow natural light into every public

and private area as per appropriate lighting levels for each type of space (i.e. reading, lab, offi ce, cafe, etc.

Goal 4The new library will provide a public cyber cafe that will

engender a casual and comfortable social spot within the library’s ground fl oor.

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Future State

Performance Requirements

Goal 1Performance Requirement: 1Facades facing any all streets will employ similar materials to buildings found on Highland Ave. If budget allows, refer to Precedent C for exterior fi nishes.Performance Requirement: 2Small entrance recess similar to shops on Highland Avenue will be employed along the South elevation. Refer to precedent C for examples.Performance Requirement: 3The building will have a similar meter and datum line between fl oors so that it clearly relates to the long elevation along Highland and Collage Ave. Performance Requirement: 4At least one large garage style opening will be used along the Cafe portion of the building on Highland Ave.

Goal 2Performance Requirement: 1Paths will be physically and visibly separated between library and public cafe without the use of partitions to engender a singularity and wholeness of space.Performance Requirement: 2Access to the two paths will be divided with control points (i.e. entrance lobby, registers, info desk, etc.)Performance Requirement: 3Both library and Cafe accessibility will be directly from sidewalk on either Highland Ave, College Ave, or both is possible.

Goal 4Performance Requirement: 1The Cafe will have wireless internet access for a minimum for 50 users.Performance Requirement: 2The Cafe will be a minimum of 1500 square feet located on Ground Level adjacent to a sidewalk. Performance Requirement: 3The Cafe will provide a commercial source of food and beverage but will be restricted to prepared food consumption.

Goal 3Performance Requirement: 1All elevations will employ ample fenestration to mark entrances, delineate usage, and connect inerior/exterior spaces. Performance Requirement: 2Areas along the third fl oor will be light with both natural and diffused light with the use of louvered fenestration. Performance Requirement: 3The Library will maintain visible dialog between interior and exterior spaces on all uses along Highland Ave and College Ave elevations.

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Future State

Performance Requirements: Goal 1The new library will have a similar aes-thetic and maintain the existing urban lan-guage of Davis Square.

Performance Requirement: 1Facades facing any all streets will employ local materials to buildings found on Highland Ave. Use of slate, wood, and various fi eld stone is strongly encouraged.

Performance Requirement: 2Small entrance recess similar to shops on Highland Avenue will be employed along the South elevation. Refer to precedent C for examples.

Performance Requirement: 3 The building will have a similar meter and datum line between fl oors so that it clearly relates to the long elevation along Highland and Collage Ave.

Performance Requirement: 4At least one large garage style opening will be used along the Cafe portion of the building on Highland Ave.

1

2

4

3

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Future State

Performance Requirements: Goal 2The new library will have (2) two major

circulation paths, one for library usage and one for a public cafe space.

Performance Requirement: 1Paths will be physically and visibly separated between library and public cafe without the use of partitions to engender a singularity and wholeness of space.

Performance Requirement: 2Access to the two paths will be divided with control points (i.e. entrance lobby, registers, info desk, etc.)

Performance Requirement: 3Both library and Cafe accessibility will be directly from sidewalk on either Highland Ave, College Ave, or both is possible.

1

2

3

BIKE PATH

HIGHLAND

COLLEG

E

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Future State

Performance Requirements: Goal 3The new library will allow natural light into every public and private area as per appropriate lighting levels for each type of space (i.e. reading, lab, offi ce, cafe, etc.

Performance Requirement: 1All elevations will employ ample fenestration to mark entrances, delineate usage, and connect inerior/exterior spaces.

Performance Requirement: 2Areas along the third fl oor will be light with both natural and diffused light with the use of louvered fenestration.

Performance Requirement: 3The Library will maintain visible dialog between interior and exterior spaces on all uses along Highland Ave and College Ave elevations.

1

2

3

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Future State

Performance Requirements: Goal 4The new library will provide a public cyber cafe that will engender a casual and comfortable social spot within the library’s ground fl oor.

Performance Requirement: 1The Cafe will have wireless internet access for a minimum for 50 users.

Performance Requirement: 2The Cafe will be a minimum of 1500 square feet located on Ground Level adjacent to a sidewalk.

Performance Requirement: 3The Cafe will provide a commercial source of food and beverage but will be restricted to prepared food consumption.

Library

Cafe

1

2

3

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Future State

Cost Evaluation

Building Footprint, Gross building area = 32,400 SFEffi ciency Factor for a Library = .65Net Program Space (32,400 x .65) = 21,060 SF

COST ESTIMATE ANALYSIS

A- Building CostsB- Fixed EquipmentC- Site Development

D- Total Construction

E- Site Acquisition/DemoF- Moveable EquipmentG- Professional FeesH- ContigenciesJ- Administrative Costs

K- TOTAL BUDGET


32,400 gsf x $120/gsf6% of A

20% of A

A + B + C

8184 sf @ $114/sf8% of A6% of D

10% of D1% of D

D thru J


$ 3,888,000$ 233,280$ 777,600

$ 4,898,880

$ 932,976$ 311,040$ 293,932$ 489,888

$ 49,500

$ 6,975,705

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1.Seattle, WashingtonBallard Library

criterion:Neighborhood ConnectionSite PlanEnvironmentalism

2.Los Angeles, CaliforniaHyde Park Branch Library

noted:Light Screening, Circulation

3.Svalbard, NorwaySvalbard Research Centre

criterion:Weather CondtionsCritical Regionalism

4.Allston, MAAllston Public Branch Library

criterion:Urban Edge ConditionsMaterials

Precedents in Design

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Precedent: 1 Project

Architect

Location

Date Completed

Size

Cost

Ballard Library

Bohlin Cywinski Jackson

Seattle, Washington

2005

15,000 sf

$6,500,000

Observations

This precedent was chosen for its neighborhood integration.

It is similar to Davis’ dual edge site condtion with multiple entrance points along the same elevation.

Buiding portrays an environmental agenda which is a key educational aspect to the design. Excellent environmental applica-tions of green roof and recylced materials.

Roof shape absorbs 86 percent of the site’s runoff and re-duces heat gain. Users can inspect the roof in perseon by permis-sion making exlcellent learning experience for young students and architecture students.

Transparent edge conditions create direct visual connection to passerby’s inviting them in or exhibiting local activity vitality.

The cuvilinear shape on main elevation reads as a seperate element within the building and could be a formal device for creat-ing a seperate language for the proposed cyber cafe along Davis Square’s Highland Ave elevation.

Circulation diagram shows double loaded access appropri-ate for multiple end users as way of seperating building use.

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Precedent #1

CirculationCirculation

FenestrationFenestration

MassingMassing

Excting facadeinvites public and

feels like more like an extenstion of the neigh-borhood hoousing than

an public instition.

Diagram (above) showing layers, featuring green roof.

Louvered glazing diffuses light o. (right)

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Architect

Location

Date Completed

Size

Cost

Miriam Mathews Library

Hodgetts + Fun

Los Angeles, California

2004

10,500 sf

$3,150,000

Observations

This precedent was chosen for its glazing strategy and for its playful and spirited design design.

The proposed library has an alley condition that has secu-rity issues. The architects for this project limited glazing mostly to the upper portions of the building for security reasons while adding projecting brise-soleils to the parking elevation (above). A portion of the rear elevation has been designated for local artist participa-tion, this is an excellent way of giving the local art community of Davis a face.

The architects used sustainable materials such as wood beams made from recyled lumber chips, sun-shading devices, and an entry canopy on the street facade clad with photovoltaic cells.

Proposed library needs to exhibit a contemporary and youthful spirit without making it appear like a school. This project has the sophistication of modernism. It is layered with materials, colors, and light that is an interesting composition that is engaging and easy to understand.

This building has a soaring space that says learning is im-portant, it also a fun place to hang out.

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Precedent: 2

Circulation

FenestrationFenestration

Massing

Brise-soleisas effective

shading devices.

Multiple layers are used without the massing

loosing its individual identities.

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Architect

Location

Date Completed

Size

Cost

Svalbard Research Centre

Jarmund/Vigsnaea Architects

Svalbard, Norway

2006

275,000 sf

unpublished

Observations

This precedent was chosen for its critical regionalism exhibited with its environmentally driven form.

All 77 angles correspond with wind, light, polar bears, and snow drifts,. Despite extreme climate conditions, it’s a relevent example for buiding in cold weather regions with limited lighting. Boston’s cold seasons and few daylight hours during winter soltice is an environmental condition that the design requires to address.

Interior spaces are lined with wood to create warm feel-ing during winter. Raised fl oors are fi lled with radiant system for energy effeciency. Cooper facing reduces building heat gain.

Central stair hall connents all three levels of the reserch center. Dynamic circulation paths help direct people navigate through building. Proposed Library poses several challenges with mutiple users, funtions, and entry points. Circulation will need to be one of the main focus points. This building creates different physical paths within similar cores without delineat-ing interior space.

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Precedent: 3

Fenestration

MassingMassing

Dynamic circulation elements in the space create an exciting and liveley

environment to be in. It promotes exploration.

Beautiful material and craftsmanship make the space feel warm during

cold and grey winter motnths.

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Precedent: 4Project

Architect

Location

Date Completed

Size

Cost

BPL Allston Library

Machado Silvetti

Allston, MA

2001

20,000 sf

$6,300,000

Observations

This precedent was chosen for its strong edge condtion. It creates a wonderful cadence and meter as you stroll along the sidewalk that provides community harmony.

The building reads as a library, maintains a strong vi-sual connection to people at street level but remains intitmate and private in nature.

Use of materials is very juducious. Contemporary in feel yet regional and appropriate to local vernacular.

Interior courtyard creates a feeling of space within a space which can create sense of imagination in all building us-ers.

Bench along the exterior wall creates strong sense of genus loci where people can occasionaly stop, sit, and over time develop strong sense of spatial and cummunal memory.

Cirulation is clear, simple, and swept to a minimum between focal program points.

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Precedent: 4

Circulation

Fenestration

Massing

Interior courtyardcreates spaces within spaces. (right

Datum line above pedestrian creates proper scale condtion for

proposed Davis Square library. (right)

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Appendix

Bibliography

BOOKS:

Allen, Richard. Community PlanningCommunity Planning. Penguin Press. New York 1986.

Duerk, Donna P. Architectural Programming: Information Management for Programming: Information Management for DesignDesign. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1993

Lynch, Kevin. The Image of the Cityhe Image of the City. MIT Press.

Pena, William M., Steven A. Parhsall. Problem Seeking. Problem Seeking. 4th ed. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. p 88-91, 110-119, 124-128.

PERIODICALS:Campell, Robert, FAIA. Architectural Record. vol. 190, Jan 2002. “At the New Allston Library, Machado Silvetti pleases the Public with a Casual, Stylish build-ing tauts more a Community Center.” p 86-91.

MacKeith, Peter. . Architectural Record. vol. 3, Feb 2004. “Jarmund/ Vigsnaeas Architects designed the Svlabard Research Center so it glows like a faceted shit in the arctic night.“ p. 111-117.

Murdock, James. Architectural Record. vol. 6, June 2006. “Branching Out: LA and other cities are encouraging greater diversity in the design of branch libraries and restoring a sense of civic pride in these buildings.” p. 145-148.

Pearson, Clifford A. Architectural Record. vol. 6, June 2006. “Hyde Park creates a branch that engauges the street in a lively manner while handleing diffi cult is-sues.“ p. 148-151.

Russell, James S., AIA. Architectural Record. vol. 5, May 2006. “Bohlin Cywin-ski Jackson Seamlessly unites library and civic functions under a great sweep of planted roof.” p 158-163.

WEB SITES:www.bpl.orgwww.somervillepubliclibrary.orgwww.epodunk.comwww.theweatherweek.comwww.cityofboston.govwww,ci.boston.us/brahttp://ksgaccman.harvard.eduwww.ci.somerville.ma.us/AboutSomerville.cfmhttp://en.wikipedia.orgwww.epodunk.com

- resource for making initiatives in program wrtiting and decoding the language

- this source clearly maps out the steps of writing in a friendly, acces-sibly way that can demystify the procoess for young architects.

-Lynch, along with Pattern Language, was helpful in pointing out and diagramming how cities function, what matters, what works, and why. Emphasis on social affects of physical environments.

- precedent study 4. materials and edge conditions.

- precedent study 3. environment, critical regionalism, weather.

-concepts behind contemporary libraries. lighting, massing, program, local community forces. topics cover environmentalism and critical regionalism issues.

- precedent study 2. public edge condtion making, playful, circulation, and lighitng.

- precedent study 1. massing, hybridization of program with mutiple civic uses.

-source for existing branch libraries. -source for history and local information on somerville communities-source on weather conditions-source on environmental conditions-source on history, zoning, bi-laws. -source for demographic information-source for hitstoy-source for demographic informaiton-source for property values and city data

notes

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Appendix

Supplemental Maps, Graphs, ImagesDiagrams, & Illustrations

Cover

Page 6-8

Page 9

Page 10

Page 11-19

Page 20

Page 21-23

Page 24-25

Page 26

Page 27

Page 29-32

Page 36

Page 40-45

Page 46-53

www.somerville/ma.gov

http://ksgaccman.harvard.edu

photographs by M. Tagore

www.tuftslocalguide.edu

photos and diagrams M. Tagore w/ Google Earth

www.cityofboston.gov

www.somervillebuilding.com

www.epodunk.com

www.epodunk.com

Somerville Community Development Offi ce

diagrams by M. Tagore w/ Google Earth

www.bpl.org

photos and diagrams M. Tagore

photos and diagrams M. Tagorewww.architecturerecord.com

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Appendix

User Group Interviews - East and West Branch LocationsUser 1: a librarian

How does the library work for you and the rest of staff with respec to logisitics?There isnt’ enough storage space, the sound lev-els vary alot when kids come in, its very hot in the summer near all the windows-which is controlled by others. In all, the building works ok I suppose. What additional spaces would does the library use beyond what’s required for public use?There are rooms that have been dressed up and re-in-veted as public meeting spaces. The architects didn’t think to add lecture rooms but there isn’t much space to give up anyhow. The computer spaces are always full, childrens spaces are a bit small and located where central desk can see. There’s offi ces for staff and a few odd rooms for storage. Does the librarary have a layout that addresses sound levels and noice?Yes, the edges of the library are used for small informal seating for reading and such. All the main activities are clustered in the heart of building. Is the building used by groups or individuals?Both actually, We have several of each. Lots of indi-viduals from all ages and demographics, lots of Tufts kids, and lots of childrens groups from the area. What do the groups do?Groups come to do crafts, or story time which is a favorite for them. Some come to do school projects and then we have small lectures by guest speakers whos bring their own adult crowds. What would you change about the layout or general building use if you could?I think I’d add more staff fascilites, storage, and lighting. The climate inside varies and I think there could be seperate controls for different spaces or areas. The reception and info desks could be more effi ecient with built in stuff or simply better designed. The security is something I would like to see change but not sure how.

User 1: a child patron, age 12

Why do you go to the library?Cause my parents bring me so she can get books but I like to read and play with the stuff they have for kids. Where is you favorite place to hang out?I like getting lost or hiding in between all the book shelves. Its fun going around all the aisles and fi nd-ing new things. Have you ever come for library events?yes. It was a talker about my neighborhood and stuff. And then another time we cam and there was art and crafts happening. I really liked that. What do you like about the children’s area?Its small just like kids. Seats are small and tables are small. Plus there is colors and things that we have in school. I like the little sofas and how everything is low and easy to read. Is there enough room for young people to sit in when they’re reading?There isnt’ enough space. No. Sometimes I have to sit on the fl oor cuase there’s no seats but I don’t mind. Do you have a favorite library, and why?I like the one near to my house cuase its big and full of big spaces and fun stairs. I don’t remember the name. (East Branch Somerville Library as confi rmed my her mother).

User 1: an adult patron

Why do you go to the library?To bring my children and to read. Why types of media do you use?I check out everything they offer; books, movies, DVDs, videos, and magazines. Do you spend time looking for information and then leave or do you stay?I typically have my kids so I get what I need and then leave although if there’s any activities I’ll stay so the kids can participate. Is seating adequate?Yeah, I’d say its pretty good. I think the levels of light are so so but seating is mostly fi ne. I’d love to see some nicer furniture in general but I know thats expensive for the city. Is sound reasonable, or do you fi nd it disturb-ing when there are lots of people?Its good. Usually, the sound you hear is what you’d expect in a library. I don’t exactly want there to be to-tal silence because a library isn’t a monastery, you’re in a public building and that (pointing around) is the sound of your community learning. I think that’s good. Do you come for events or lectures?I wish I came to more of them! Do you think the public and private spaces are adequate?The lecture rooms are little strange feeling. Cold feel-ing with low ceilings and bad artifi cial light. I think there could be more natural light or ventilation. What would you add to this library if you could?Are you kidding? I’d add a cafe in a heartbeat. Its bad enough when you bring your kids and one gets hungry all of a sudden in the middle of a great story. I think it would be great to have some sort of cyber-cafe space in the middle or something to give people a place to drink coffee or nibble like they do at some many new bookstores nowadays.

Library Program

Documents

Transcript of Library Program