The community of Canal Winchester has a growing population and evolving identity. Columbus Metropolitan Library studied the demographics, growth, and usage statistics through an express branch and found a significant need for enhanced library services. The community will now see a new 30,000 SF building located at a prominent site on Groveport Road close to the historic downtown.
The goals of the design are to: reflect the evolving identity of Canal Winchester and honor its rich history; create a unique and iconic exterior design to reflect the innovative programming within; prioritize flexibility to easily adapt program spaces for all ages in the future; maximize transparency to showcase the collection and draw the public inside.
The design places the building as close to the main road as possible, with an angled façade that references the angled historic city grid while also improving visibility to the library interior to cars along Groveport Road headed in either direction. The long elevation is articulated to highlight the programmatic functions on the interior, and clad in timeless materials that align with the library’s vision while tailored to the large landscaped site.
