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Minneapolis Central Library - AIA ALA Award

 

Article from AIA ALA Award - 2009
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2009 AIA/ALA Library Building Awards

Project:
Minneapolis Central Library, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Design Architect:
Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects www.pcparch.com

Architect of Record: Architectural Alliance

Owner: Hennepin County Library

Notes of Interest
The library occupies a site between two of the city’s most active thoroughfares, Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Avenue. Two simple rectangular volumes, one aligned with each avenue, are separated by an enclosed public space, the Library Commons. The Commons is topped by a metal “wing” that appears to hover above the space, extending beyond the building at both ends. The library’s design includes many sustainable elements.

Jury Comments
The atrium is a terrific urban design contribution connecting two main streets, as well as connecting the entertainment district and the commercial district; it also provides a clear understanding of how the library is organized.

The use of interior elements such as sculpture, color, and materials to provide branding distinguishes individual floors.