Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview Branch Renovation

The project modifications include a building addition to provide enlarged floor areas and renovations to the existing space of the library. The project completely transformed the building to give it a more recognizable and welcoming presence within the street face of the residential neighborhood and to provide bright, daylit spaces for the community occupants.

The design team worked with the library to facilitate a complete reorganization of the services and spaces and to provide a sustainable design that is also universally accessible. The Adult Service Area provides generous lounge and study seating, a comfortable computer space, and shelving arranged to facilitate serendipitous browsing. An enlarged, dedicated Teen Area occupies a front corner of the building, in a brick screened area that is enhanced by dappled natural light and is distinct from the adult services space.  

An open stair connects the entry floor to the lower level which contains the Children’s Area, providing a direct visual and physical connection. Lower shelving units were provided in the children’s space to increase opportunities for children to browse and to provide quality seating space.  An intimate reading nook underneath the stair is a playful area for children to discover and share.  The introduction of daylight and view to the green wooded area behind the library is a welcome addition to what was once a dark, internal space.