MY DESIGN

This library project explores the dichotomy between public and private spaces within a building. The rectangular massing is divided into two distinct environments, with the more public program of the library distributed throughout one side, while the private programs are located on the other. The design emphasizes this division through the use of bookshelves, which act as the driving factors in determining the level of privacy in a space.


Free to All. The Boston Public Library system houses over a dozen branches throughout the city, but notably, Chinatown lacks a permanent library space. My project proposes a dual library and museum space that welcomes all members of the Chinatown community: readers, artists, families, and beyond.

The public side of the library, located bordering Tyler street and facing the highway, includes communal spaces such as a cafe, large lecture hall, open reading areas, outdoor living rooms, and bathrooms. The private spaces, such as smaller meeting rooms, librarian offices, and reading rooms, are located on the opposite side and offer more intimate experiences.


Public vs. Private Program

As the bookshelves extend horizontally, more space is opened up, allowing for a greater distribution of programs and a more public environment. The space between the bookshelves is larger and therefore creates environments for gathering and communal activities. The private side of the library is covered by an entire wall of books. This emphasizes the idea that this side is more closed off, however ironically, as you navigate through the space it opens up. It begins with an almost “unapproachable” facade, then turns into a corridor, and finally a series of larger rooms facing the exterior through the use of large windows. The bookshelves continue vertically and become the roof of the structure, reinforcing the idea of expanding space.


Materiality - Site Analysis

The proposed building is meant to assimilate those nearby and match the aesthetics of the neighborhood in terms of both materiality and massing. The historic site features many brick rectangular structures therefore the library follows the same manner however with more modern tones.