HERALD MAHONEY LIBRARY, SANTA ROSA JUNIOR COLLEGE
Petaluma Campus | Petaluma, CA | Complete
Design Intent: The interior architectural design of the Library emphasizes a clean and open environment that complements the natural beauty of Petaluma Valley’s rolling hills and open vistas. A simple, neutral palette of materials including natural wood, cork flooring, and soft paint tones allow the thoughtful architectural details to stand out.
Student Needs: This “commuter” Community College has a large population of students that need a quiet and professional environment to pursue their studies between classes and during off-hours. Furnishings support student learning through both the traditional print resources of a Library, as well as a plethora of modern technology tools and group collaboration spaces. Acoustic solutions, lighting technologies and customized furniture systems responds to these needs.
Maximizing Space: The program for the library called for a fairly dense floor plan in order to accommodate the requirements for Book Stacks, Reader Tables, Computer Stations and Group Study Rooms, yet the Library feels very spacious through the use of high ceilings, indirect lighting, open vistas and a clearly organized floor plan. The simplicity and timeless of the materials allow the space to breath and encourage a quiet relaxation in visitors.