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159 Western Avenue West, Suite 486
Seattle, Washington 98119
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Boulevard Park Library
by relocating the library’s vestibule enclosure outside of the existing building footprint, a light, bright, and open entry welcomes the public
Boulevard Park Library
the re-envisioned children’s area boasts natural light filtered through a new window with colorful glass, custom carpet, specialty light fixtures, and fun furniture
Boulevard Park Library
the library’s existing meeting room was enlarged, and new sliding glass walls with custom artwork give a physical and visual connection to the reading room
Boulevard Park Library
strategically consolidating collections allowed large areas of the library to be reclaimed for patron reading, working, and meeting spaces
Boulevard Park Library
a dedicated space for teens combines collections, custom furniture, and a new window with colorful glass. New study rooms provide acoustic privacy with visual sight lines from the staff desk
Boulevard Park Library
clearing out years of clutter allowed more patron amenities to be located in the building’s high-volume central space
Boulevard Park Library
improvements to the Boulevard Park Library ready the building for its next 50 years of service to the community

Location Boulevard Park, WA

Client King County Library System

Boulevard Park Library

BuildingWork’s full renovation of the Boulevard Park Library’s interior, paired with specific exterior modifications, transformed the library’s 5,000 sf footprint into a light, bright, public space for a growing community.

After nearly 50 years of service, changing library needs left the Boulevard Park Library with an unclear organization and use of space. Through programming and zoning exercises, functions were identified and located to fit specific spaces in the existing building. Working in the library’s small space inspired strategic intervention, including opening the meeting room, removing outdated infrastructure, reprogramming the interior, and prioritizing natural light. The library’s original lighting and architectural features that had hung heavy were removed. Bright paint lit by thin LED fixtures and new exterior windows allows the volume of the library to shine.

BuildingWork’s renovation design was influenced by the library’s programming and its position as a vital hub central to Boulevard Park’s multi-cultural, multi-lingual community. Adult collections line perimeter walls, opening the library’s main space for patrons to read, study, and access high-speed internet. Teens and children have dedicated zones with color palettes, furniture, and collections tailored to their needs. Adjacent to the children’s area, sliding glass walls with custom artwork by local artist Barbara Earl Thomas allow direct access to the flexible community meeting room, used for a wide range of programs, study sessions, and storytimes.

A BuildingWork project. Photos © Lara Swimmer Photography.