Tagore Hernandez Library Program Davis Square 9 May 2007
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Table
of
Contents
Introduction
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Program Statement
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Existing State
Introduction Site History Culture Local Groups Location Nodes and Landmarks Approach Views from Site Cultural Nodes Commercial Nodes Land Use Zoning Zoning and ADA Climate Demographics Ecology, Typology, Archeology Site Field Card Utility Plan Shadow Studies Economic Value Access to Site Circulation Observations Proposed Building Program User Group Interviews Client Profile Observation Summary
Future State
Mission and Goals Performance Requirements PR Diagrams Cost Evaluation Precedents
Appendix
Bibliography Supplemental Information Tagore Hernandez
5 6-8 9 10 11 12 13-16 17 18 19 20 21 22-23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37
38 39 40-43 44 45-53
54 55-57 Spring 2007
Davis Square, Somerville MA
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Introduction The Davis Square Neighborhood centrally located in Somerville is experiencing a new economic, cultural, and social renewal. Shops are flourishing, coffee houses are sprouting, new restaurants are opening, and a new four story building is being erected for commercial use adjacent to the Historic Somerville Theater. A defunct city square, since the late 1980’s, has gradually grown out of it’s previously negative state of affairs and negative reputation (originally coined ‘Slumerville) to become a revitalized and highly esteemed environment for all businesses and social classes. With significant growth as evidenced by various Tufts University Departments, renewed political clout, rising real estate values, and commercial growth, it is evident that the need for a local library has become significant to support and sustain the cultural swing of things. The site is in prominent square with close proximity to Tuft’s University, multiple buss connections, and the Boston T. The Library will provide a public space for the community and will continue to support all the development that is present in the community.
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Program Statement Form Form will be dictated by both the program and by local vernacular with respect to use and need. The programmatic layout will have to correspond to the standard library indexing system for simple use and universal accessibility. Simplicity and clarity of plan will be an essential component of the design. Function The library should be a public space for all social classes and community organizations that can take advantage of the spaces and enjoy the process of advancing their learning experiences. Economy The building will be designed using economically and environmentally sound applications to assure and quantify the overall sustainability and longevity of the heavily used building. The budget’s emphasis will be directed towards interior quality, chiefly seating, research, technology, and gathering spaces to ensure comfort and joy of use. Time The collection of books and the myriad of media types will fluxuate each academic turnover. The library shall be designed with flexibility as the ‘point of departure’ with respect to concept development in order to allow these changes to occur more seamlessly.
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Existing State Introduction Somerville Massachusetts is an industrial city located northwest of Boston and adjacent to the city of Cambridge. A population of well over 70,000 living within an area comprising slightly over 4 square miles makes Somerville the most densely populated city in New England. Once part of neighboring Charlestown, Somerville became incorporated as a separate town in 1842 and in 1872 the town was incorporated as a city. The ensuing years saw the city’s population grow in leaps and bounds, aided by the establishment of street car lines and a burgeoning prominence of heavy industry which took root in the city. Like its neighbor Cambridge, Somerville is defined by its city squares, which mark the neighborhood boundaries and also house unique centers of business and entertainment. Among these are Davis Square, Ball Square, Union Square, Teele Square, and Magoun Square.
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The recent development in Davis Square poses new challenges and opportunities to both reinvent and maintain the genus loci that the square historically represents. The past marked Davis Square as a cross roads industry. Now, the square has become a cultural crossroad for students, artists, public performances, and professionals alike. The Somerville Theater, a historic landmark in Davis Square, is capitalizing upon the square’s new status as a mecca for fine dining and funky stores as well as its proximity to mass transit. The theater’s monthly programs, which include live and film performances, attract a regional audience and enjoy renewed patronage. Restored and reconstructed in 1996, the theater reflects favorably upon the square’s recent improvements. The new Library is important because it will help balance out the emerging commercial sector by providing a physical landmark that maintains a cultural use amidst all the shopping, dining, and business use.
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Existing State History Somerville was first settled in 1630 as part of Charlestown. It was known as “Charlestown beyond the Neck” because it was part of the Massachusetts mainland, not the Charlestown Peninsula. (Charlestown Neck was the narrow strip of land that joined the two.) The incorporation of Somerville in 1842 separated the largely rural town from the urbanizing Charlestown.
The original choice for the city’s new name after breaking away from Charlestown was Walford, after the first settler of Charlestown. However this name was not adopted by the separation committee. Mr. Charles Miller, a member of this committee, proposed the name “Somerville” which was chosen. It was not derived from any one person’s name. A report commissioned by the Somerville Historical Society found that Somerville was a “purely fanciful name”. Traffic on the Middlesex Canal began its famous route from the mouth of the Charles River in Charlestown (now Boston) to Lowell going through East Somerville, where several historical markers can be discovered today.
Historically Somerville encompassed many of the less desirable railway and industrial lands squeezed between the Charles River to the southwest and the Mystic River to the northeast. For all its problems, Somerville’s late 1800s and early 1900s industrial revolution left behind a rich historical record of Sanborn Maps, apparently invented in Somerville in 1867, and subsequently used for fire insurance appraisal across the USA. The delicate, detailed original Sanborn Maps are on display at the main branch of the Somerville Public Library. Somerville was once colloquially referred to as “Slummerville,” referring to its blueTagore Hernandez
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Existing State History -collar residents and its reputation for crime, especially in the city’s east, where James “Buddy” McLean and Howie Winter and the “Winter Hill Gang” were based. However, after the gentrification period the city went through in the 1990s this name became less prevalent. More recently, lobbying by grassroots organizations is attempting to revive and preserve Somerville’s “small town” neighborhood environments by supporting local business, public transit, gardens and pedestrian/ biker access.
Somerville has experienced dramatic gentrification since the Red Line of Boston’s subway system was extended through Somerville in 1985, especially in the area between Harvard and Tufts Universities, centering around Davis Square. This was especially accelerated by the repeal of rent control in the mid-1990s being directly followed by the Internet boom of the late 90s. Residential property values approximately quadrupled from 1991 to 2003, and the stock of rental housing decreased as lucrative condo conversions become commonplace. This has led to tensions between long-time residents and recent arrivals, with many of the former accusing the latter of ignoring problems of working-class families such as drugs, gang violence, and suicides. Incidents such as anti-”yuppie” graffiti appearing around town have highlighted this rift. Recent months have seen the arrival of community groups such as Save Our Somerville (SOS), dedicated to improving relationships between old and new residents and ensuring that the concerns of the Somerville working class remain at the forefront of the city’s political concerns. SOS in particular is Tagore Hernandez
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Davis Square, Somerville MA
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Existing State History headed by young residents of the city who claim to desire unity between all residents but also focus on the difficulties that young adults in Somerville face. Their acceptance of people of different races, economic status and sexual preference has been questioned at times, but they enjoy support from a number of wellknown, local adults, including elected officials. Many such community-led groups find it difficult to attract wide support as many would-be advocates are forced to move to less expensive towns due to the density of the population and strong economic forces that have made Somerville a very expensive city to live in. In November of 1997, the Utne Reader, named Davis Square in Somerville one of the 15 hippest places to live in the U.S. This article illustrates how Somerville is in an era socio-economic change shared by many other working-class and industrial areas of the country.
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Existing State Culture Though formally listed as being located in Medford, Tufts University is also located in Somerville. The SomervilleMedford line actually runs through Tufts’ campus. The school employs many local residents and has many community service projects that serve the city, especially those run through the Leonard Carmichael Society and the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service, the latter of which especially emphasizes public service in Tufts’ host communities. Davis Square is a quaint and thriving community made up of small, locally owned businesses, working professionals, long time locals, and Tufts University students. Located just a short walk from Porter Square and Massachusetts Ave., Davis Square is also home to a very active artist community. Davis is about twenty minutes from downtown Boston on the MBTA red line. The center of the square is a cobblestone plaza that, during warm days and evenings, is also a fun, family friendly hang-out featuring street performers and local artists. In 1997, Davis Square was listed in the Utne Reader as one of the fifteen “hippest places to live” in the United States.
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Existing State Local Groups
The Friends of the Community Path are working to inform every resident of Somerville about the path, and collect community feedback. The Friends will use this feedback to monitor the path design process; helping to ensure the path design meets the needs and desires of the community. 1. The Friends have held four major public community meetings, and several small meetings. They have participated in numerous community events (such as Davis ArtBeat and Tour de Somerville), sent postcards to absentee property owners, and canvassed door-to-door, and organized cleanup events. 2. The existing path is well used & loved. There is an estimated 300 path users per day on any given afternoon during balmy seasons which attests to the heavy pedestrian traffic. 3. It is called the Community Path, not a bike path, because most of the existing path users don’t use bikes on the path. The Friends have collected dozens of support letters from local organizations & businesses, and hundreds of support pledges from local residents. Somerville Mayor Dorothy Kelly Gay is a firm path supporter. Tagore Hernandez
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Existing State Location The site for the proposed Library is situated on the edges of central Davis Square. It is adjacent to the Davis ‘Commons’, the Somerville Theater, the Davis T, and the well used Mike’s Restaurant. It’s address is formally called 1 College Ave but its major facade (lengthwise) will run along Highland Ave. At present, the building that occupies the site is the Middlesex Federal Bank which will be slated for demolition. The site is chosen for the multitude of public access amenities for pedestrian accessibility, commercial centrality, and because of the lack of a much needed modern Public Library in an otherwise cultural bustle.
Future development includes the restoration of two nearby historic buildings, the construction of a four story building slated for fitness and commercial use, and the extension of the Minuteman Commuter Walking Path towards the Charles River via Davis Square. This development with further establish Davis as a prominent commercial and social node in the Somerville area akin to Harvard and Central Square. At present, there is the East Branch Public Library within 5 minutes of waling distance from Davis Square, but it has limited hours and days of use, limited possibilities for technological equipment (wireless, computer labs etc.) for architectural infrastructure reasons, and several impending historical limitations that prevent re-adaptation to modern library cataloging use. Furthermore, there is a lack of storage, a need for a larger collection to serve all the students in Davis, and has become locally unpopular for its lack of day lighting, public assembly space, and accessibility. Having interviewed over 20 people at random in Davis Square, it was discovered that few people knew the library existed.
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Existing State Nodes & Landmarks Landmarks are external references that are prominent in spacial location and provide people with a sense of location and direction. Nodes are social and cultural points along a city comprised of paths, intersections, concentrations of people and so on. Davis Square is home to a few Landmarks, such at the First James Church shown below, and several nodes where people meet, spend time sitting around looking at other people, waling the dog, listening to live musicians outdoors during balmy weather conditions, and the ubiquitous eating and shopping outings. Major attractions include the bike path, small parks, popular music and bar venues, historic churches, open spaces for performances with ample public seating and shade, and great shops. Below are a few nodes defined by how often or how many people either stand outside or frequent; marked with varying red circles respectively. The shapes give a scalar indication of prominence, small for less prominence, large for great social prominence and frequency.
1
2 22 5
3
4 4
1
ďż˝ 3
5
6
6
map of Davis
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Existing State Approach The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.
The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.
The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
Davis Square, Somerville MA
Library Program
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Existing State Approach The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.
The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.
The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
Davis Square, Somerville MA
Library Program
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Existing State Approach The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.
The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.
The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
Davis Square, Somerville MA
Library Program
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Existing State Approach The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one approaches the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate 250 foot radius, or from a point along any given path when the site comes initially into view.
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Existing State Views from Site The following images illustrate each of the corresponding views as one stands within the proposed site. The views are photographs taken from an approximate central location.
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Existing State Cultural Nodes
Local theater house showcasing plays from both local and nationally recognized playwrights, comedy shows, and various community dramatic performance. Located 1/2 block from proposed Library location
Local St. James Catholic Church, a historic landmark. The church will be on axis with the proposed library entrance facade and is 1 block walking distance from the proposed location
Locally famous McIntyre Booksellers. It’s accredited as a cultural node because of the local book, philosophy, poetry, and astrology groups that meet for local debate and discussion.
Nationally recognized for debuting of world class performance artists, bi-yearly Boston film festivals, independent films, and local art and dance performances. This landmark will be directly across the street from the proposed library.
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Existing State Commercial Nodes
Locally popular and family owned DIESEL CAFE. It is typically at full capacity year round, seating approx... 150 people for coffees and sandwiches w/ wireless access were many people come to study and do online research within yards of proposed Library. This venue should serve as an excellent prototype for proposed Library’s open public space program.
This restaurant always features something one seldom finds in a restaurantpeople eating along while reading and writing. It is frequented by students, visitors, and locals of all social classes and age groups. It is directly across the street from the proposed site and is also an excellent prototype for casual and comfortable public use in Davis Square .
Locally famous THE BURREN is known for heavy collegiate drinking, several cab stands across the street, and live Irish Music with revolving Irish Native musicians. This venue is located 1/2 block from the proposed Library.
Boston famous JP LICKS. People travel from Arlington, Medford, even parts of Cambridge just to get a lick of what this location has to offer. Aside from a well made product, its adjacency to the Davis ‘Commons’ makes for an excellent place to relax and have a treat.
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Existing State Existing Land Use The map below indicates current zoning and land use for the city of Somerville as amended in 2004. The proposed site is centrally located within the marked box. Refer to following page for closer view. The proposed site is zoned Central Business District which allows assembly and library use as of right. The area marks a concentration of small businesses made up of several small restaurants, bars, banks, grocery stores, movie rentals, beauty
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in short, its a well balanced city node unto itself with a strong pedestrian and vehicular presence. Because of the close proximity to several bus connections, a T stop, commuter rail, and various cultural and social nodes, the site has been chosen to for a library to augment existing cultural conditions already in place and help maintain the social character that might otherwise become overwhelmed with incumbent corporate industries.
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Existing State Existing Zoning Information
MARCELO TAGORE HERNANDEZ Library
1 College Ave Somerville MA
780 CMR 1993 BOCA 6th Edition Assembly A-3
Storage
32,336 sf
3 stry. 40’
75%
MARCELO TAGORE HERNANDEZ
X
11,550/flr
3 stry.
40’ (type 3A)
155’
(18+17) 8184 sf
100% For buildings greater than 2 stry.
51’
Mass Sate Building Code CBD
100% 32,336 sf
n/a
Institutional Use *(SPSR) 34,650 - 3 stry. 0 hrs
32,336 - 3 stry. 0 hrs
N.L..
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1 College Ave Somerville MA
Library
N.L..
Spring 2007
2 hrs 15% protected
0 hrs
N/A
N/A
10’
2.0
+ 2’ ea. floor above ground floor
N.L..
Davis Square, Somerville MA
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Existing State Zoning + Accessibility
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Existing State Zoning + Accessibility
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Existing State Climate The data below describes 10 year average climate conditions for the city of Somerville.
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Existing State Political and Social Demographics- City of Somerville, 2004
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 2004 Census, Podunk Tagore Hernandez
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Existing State Ecology, Topography, and Archeological Traces Social awareness with respect to ecology in the Davis Square area is relatively minor. There are no locally organized groups nor does the City of Somerville have any ecological initiatives in motion. There are small and privately organized vegetable gardens and a handful of developers who have initiated sustainable practices. The area is characterized as a prototypical
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suburban area with average levels of density about approximately %10 of ‘green space’. Topography in Somerville varies a great deal with ranges of +/-40’ in elevation. The PROPOSED SITE is considered to be flat with elevation of 15’ above sea level. There are no archeological traces with the exception of now covered railroad tracks which is the “bike path” that runs along the North Elevation of the proposed building site.
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Existing State
Site Data- Field Card From the City of Somerville March 2007.
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Existing State Utility Plan Utility Plan was not available. A copy of existing ultilies can be purchased from local authorities. Current urban siting has a sewage connection to city the street sewage that will continue to service utilities. Electrical service will be similar to existing conditions.
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Existing State Shadow Studies Below is are a series of diagrams that represent day lighting in Davis Square during Summer and Winter soltices. The study shows that there are few times when the Southern facade gets blocked by any neighboring buildings. Emphasis will need to be paid to the amount of exposure on the Southern facade to avoid glare with the use of screening devices and judicious placement of fenestration around reading areas, computer lab spaces, offices, etc. The advantage here is that the prominent facade along Highland Ave is the one with most light source.
150’
9 AM
12 AM
3 PM
6 PM
Winter Soltice
Summer Soltice
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Existing State Economic Value Below is are diagrams depicting adacent properties and their associated land values. They show recent appraisals for resturants, banks, business office complexes, etc. The Proposed Library property is valued at $1.3 million compared to neighboring properties whose vlaues range from $1.2 to $1.8 million. This indicates high value in and around the area which is a sign of a healthy community with rising real estate values. The property will only increase in value if a library gets built. Its community value will make the square more prominent and help to increase the vlaue of all the neighrboring land vlaues. The 8 Bus Connections and 2 T-Stop locations have an effect on the local prices because of close proximity to so many transportation notes.
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Existing State Access to Site Below is a map and a corresponding chart that show all the public transit routes. There are several ways of getting to and from the site, furthermore, Highland Ave has a parking lane that could be rezoned for pick-up and drop-off. There is no on site parking. Using the BPL as precedent for a public library with no parking, it is evident that what makes a successful public building is its location, with respect to adjacency social
and commercial nodes, and to public transportation. Conclusion for this site analysis indicates that this site is appropriate because despite the lack of parking there are 8 Bus Connections and 2 T-Stops. Employee parking will be in adjacent parking lot 1 block away.
Radial Distances
1 mile
1/2 mile
Davis T Stop Bus Lines
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Existing State Vehicular Circulation
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Pedestrian Circulation
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Existing State Observations 10 site visits. Weekdays and Weekends. Times varied from 9AM thorugh 10 PM. Architectural Davis Square has a charming feel about it. The majority of buildings in this area are from 1930’s. Simple brick facades with little oranmentation. Most facades have been retrofitted with store front save a few historically preserved buildings. Lots of new and ‘funky’ facadectamy shows openess to new design ideas and public expression. Brand new 4 story building going up directly across the street for office space down in ‘contemporary regionalism.’ The proposed site is abutted by several edge conditions and traffic flows. Facades will be very significant players the urban planning by creating hybridized edge condtions. Casual Its a cool spot without question. Challenge is in defining this type of genus loci. “What makes cool spaces” is what designers need to focus on. Residents like the feel, one of both comfort, tradition, and prgression, and they want to keep this feeeling, not change it or loose it with too many ofices going up... Issues Parking seems to be everyone’s issue in Davis, patrons and business owners alike, The proposed Library won’t be exempt from having to deal with this issue. Crime is very low, weather conditions are big environmental concern. Residents show growing concerns for office developments, the proposed library will appease and balance this issuse for time to come. Adaptations Interactive moments- people use MBTA vent/lighting shaft as seating or as platform for muscial performances. Not much else. Tagore Hernandez
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Dispalys of Self There signs painted on the floor. Several pavers have been replaced with artist made glazed bricks that speak of local craftmanship and community.Full scale human figure sculptures are dotted around the square and the occasionally get painted on their faces in flattering and endearing ways. Some electrical junction boxes have been brightly painted by high school artists by commision of the town. Some murals exisit around the square ranging from small to ‘huge’ covering hundreds of square feet of wall space. Little graphitti can be found save the ubiquitous marked up benches of Tom+Jane. This is square where one can unoffensively find shoes hanging up in the power lines, smile, and know that this is a friendly place to be in. Public Messages Signage has strong presence in Davis. Everyone is competing to be seen and heard. Some small shops of various services put signs out on the sidewalk to advertise a sale, an upcoming show or artist, 1/2 price for manicures, Planned Parenthood meetings, etc. Poeple perform all the time. 6 months out of the year directly across the street. This could be percieved as both a charm and a sound issue for library patrons. Many posters of art performances, apartments, lost dogs, etc. found in and out of establishments, on posts, bins, and so on. Clues There are traces of usage by the myriad of trash and recylcing bins in the area. They usually fill up daily (after seeing it over the course of a day) which is telling of heavy pedestrian use and eating/drinking while walking.
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Existing State Proposed Building The drawing shows the building footprint drawn dashed within the boundaries of the site setbacks. The 32,500 sf building complies with local zoning ordinance. It will replace the existing footprint of the bank building that currently exists. The proposed site and corresponding building plan will need to go through a variance process with both the City of Somerville Zoning Department and the MBTA for parking in the rear. At present there is an easement on MBTA’s property that does not allow accessible parking as of right. The plan calls for 6 parking spaces and 2 handicap spaces along the North Facade adjacent to existing public bicycle storage. Proposed parking will be reserved for employees and handicapped patrons. Listed below are the programmatic elements for proposed Somerville Public Branch Library. LIBRARY PROGRAM - TENANT /PUBLIC OCCUPIABLE AREA ENTRY VESTIBULE GALLERY SPACE (Private and Public) CHECK OUT AREA CAFE AREA
PROPOSED PARKING
REFERENCE DESK
Col
COMPUTER LAB
leg
READING SPACES (Lounge and Formal)
ve eA
TABLE SEATING PUBLIC USE ASSEMBLY ROOMS CHILDREN’S READING SPACE AUDIO LABORATORY
Highland Ave
PERIODICALS MAIN COLLECTION STACKS REFERENCE STACKS AUDIO VISUAL MEDIA PHOTOCOPYING AREA REST ROOMS STORAGE ROOMS JANITOR’S CLOSETS LIBRARIANS OFFICES KITCHENETTE
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Existing State User Group Interviews A variety of interviews were conducted to gain information regarding the patrons and needs. Their voices should be taken into consideration for the overall design of the proposed library. The main concern for librarians is space allocation and subsequent traffic flows for storage, use, and maintanance. This is a direct result of prioritizing too much on end users and stacks than on emoloyee narrative. There needs to be well balanced hierchy of program emphasis between public, private, assembly, and storage spaces. Storage space is required to handle less frequently used materials, electronic peripherals, and maintainance equipment. According to the librarains, most branches provide inadequate storage square footage not realing how much it is needed, particularly to accomodate growth. The young persons reading spaces require special attention. More young students and families are coming to use libraries for mutiple funtions in additon to reading. Libraries serve several educational functions in the community and require spaces that suit flexible needs. Issues include space, noise levels, safety, relationship and proximity to security points etc. There were many visitors that mention how often they take advantage of free admission to see revolving art shows. The proposed library will have to ceate a gallery.e enough computer nodes as well as wireless connection. Tagore Hernandez
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Many local libraries offer activities like crafts in addition to reaadin. The design of the library should take into consideration the control of noise levels created by children to maintain peace of mind for the rest of the users. Security is a key issue. The proposed library has mutiple entrances and a split program. With this added level of complexity, the diversity of people, and mutiple circulation and information nodes, there needs to be particular emphasis on how to minimize egress into an easily controlled cirical mass. Users mentioned a sense of learning spirit and spacesness. The proposed library should have a significant space within the envolope that connects all floors to give users a building the think about. One that challenges their imagination spatially and that provides the nieghborhood a positive architectectural gesture that they can be proud of. Conclusion The interviews were helpful, short finding fact sessions that shed a lot of light on issues that I did’t think were issues. People seem to be more impressionable with respect to orientation, ease of use, collection, and serice- in that order. Most do no ever see the building as something that needs to be changed; just storage, or light, or noise level, or... So it’s clear that the architecture plays a tremendous role in providing a user friendly place to engauge within. My mission was not as influenced as was my performance requirments by all the interviews I did. In fact, the performance requirements were shaped by interviews. Davis Square, Somerville MA
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Existing State Client Profile The client for the proposed West Branch Somerville Library is the city of Somerville. Major challenges for realizing this project include relocating existing tenants (Essex Bank Headquarters), redefining zoning through the adjacent MBTA easement for handicap and 6 employee parking spaces, and finance. The designers, the city officials, and the public must work together to accomplish the mutual goal of creating a community destination in Davis Square to maintain its social and cultural significance. This over arching goal will assure community pride for current and future generations. Specifically, the client is the youth of Somerville who are made up of local universities and public schools. The project should keep these users, and the staff respectively, as the focal point by engendering a sense of shelter and scholarship- “if you interest the kids, they will bring their parents.�
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Existing State Observation Summary The proposed Library will replace an existing banking building. The building serves no direct social function because it is a headquarters banking institution that does not take walk-in clientele. Architecturally, is in introverted with no fenestration along the sidewalk and a tight band of windows at clerestory height. The current building is not inviting and does not add the overall quality of life for the square like most buildings do. People walk past the building and are confronted with solid masonry with no indication as to what happens inside. Its windows are tainted very dark and there is little to no evidence of use either during day or night. The proposed Library will open up this part of the busy square and create a new social node with transparent and inviting architecture. Despite what local demographic studies indicate, the square is predominantly comprised of young people ranging from 21-35 years of age. Senior citizens rarely frequent the square. Families can be seen during festival events and during dining hours after normal work hours. This observation can be taken from either face value, from the various inquiries that have been taken from students in and around the area who frequent the square, or from tenured business owners who know the site well and who know who their patrons are. The majority of services there are either food, beverage or entertainment oriented- in short, Davis Square is a youthful environment. This spirit needs to be accounted for when thinking about the image, funtionality, and patron base of the proposed Library. It should not be conservative nor should it pander to any traditional architectural attitudes. The place is ‘funky’ with newly fitted out pubs outfitting some of the latest modern materials and methods. At present, a new 4 story building is being constructed by Paul Lukez that represents forward thinking ideas of architecture but is also careful in that it does not come across ‘corporate’ looking. There is some essential language being used such at material, bays along the main facade, handsome cornices, etc. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
The most popular places in Davis, whose business owners taut great success, are the ones that feature lounge siting, quick food, good light for studying, and nice comfortable places to sit and be seen while spending time either alone or with social groups. Examples include Mike’s Cafe, Diesel Cafe, Starbucks, Davis Square ‘Commons’, seating along the bike path, Somerville Theater, Someday Cafe, and Diva Lounge which was recently published in Record, Architecture, and Boston Architecture to name a few publications. This type of ‘relaxed type environment’ is a critical point of departure for the design concept of the proposed Library to ensure quality of comfort. Other key elements are operable facades that engender total outdoor space, good quality of light, medium height ceilings, and a plethora of comfortable seating.
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Future State Mission Statement The mission for this project is to support both East and West Branch Somerville Libraries with a modern facility that meets current demands for literary circulation, technological resources and public assembly space.
Goal 1
The new library will have a similar aesthetic and maintain the existing urban language of Davis Square.
Goal 2
The new library will have (2) two major circulation paths, one for library usage and one for a public cafe space.
Goal 3
The new library will allow natural light into every public and private area as per appropriate lighting levels for each type of space (i.e. reading, lab, office, cafe, etc.
Goal 4
The new library will provide a public cyber cafe that will
engender a casual and comfortable social spot within the library’s ground floor. Tagore Hernandez
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Future State Performance Requirements Goal 1
Goal 3
Goal 2
Goal 4
Performance Requirement: 1 Facades facing any all streets will employ similar materials to buildings found on Highland Ave. If budget allows, refer to Precedent C for exterior finishes. Performance Requirement: 2 Small entrance recess similar to shops on Highland Avenue will be employed along the South elevation. Refer to precedent C for examples. Performance Requirement: 3 The building will have a similar meter and datum line between floors so that it clearly relates to the long elevation along Highland and Collage Ave. Performance Requirement: 4 At least one large garage style opening will be used along the Cafe portion of the building on Highland Ave.
Performance Requirement: 1 Paths will be physically and visibly separated between library and public cafe without the use of partitions to engender a singularity and wholeness of space. Performance Requirement: 2 Access to the two paths will be divided with control points (i.e. entrance lobby, registers, info desk, etc.) Performance Requirement: 3 Both library and Cafe accessibility will be directly from sidewalk on either Highland Ave, College Ave, or both is possible.
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Spring 2007
Performance Requirement: 1 All elevations will employ ample fenestration to mark entrances, delineate usage, and connect inerior/exterior spaces. Performance Requirement: 2 Areas along the third floor will be light with both natural and diffused light with the use of louvered fenestration. Performance Requirement: 3 The Library will maintain visible dialog between interior and exterior spaces on all uses along Highland Ave and College Ave elevations.
Performance Requirement: 1
The Cafe will have wireless internet access for a minimum for 50 users. Performance Requirement: 2
The Cafe will be a minimum of 1500 square feet located on Ground Level adjacent to a sidewalk. Performance Requirement: 3
The Cafe will provide a commercial source of food and beverage but will be restricted to prepared food consumption.
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Future State Performance Requirements: Goal 1
The new library will have a similar aesthetic and maintain the existing urban language of Davis Square. 1
Performance Requirement: 1
Facades facing any all streets will employ local materials to buildings found on Highland Ave. Use of slate, wood, and various field stone is strongly encouraged.
3
Performance Requirement: 2
Small entrance recess similar to shops on Highland Avenue will be employed along the South elevation. Refer to precedent C for examples.
Performance Requirement: 3
The building will have a similar meter and datum line between floors so that it clearly relates to the long elevation along Highland and Collage Ave.
Performance Requirement: 4
At least one large garage style opening will be used along the Cafe portion of the building on Highland Ave. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
2 4 Davis Square, Somerville MA
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Future State Performance Requirements: Goal 2
The new library will have (2) two major circulation paths, one for library usage and one for a public cafe space.
1
Performance Requirement: 1
Paths will be physically and visibly separated between library and public cafe without the use of partitions to engender a singularity and wholeness of space.
Performance Requirement: 2
Access to the two paths will be divided with control points (i.e. entrance lobby, registers, info desk, etc.)
2
ATH BIKE P
Performance Requirement: 3
3 Tagore Hernandez
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EGE
L COL
Both library and Cafe accessibility will be directly from sidewalk on either Highland Ave, College Ave, or both is possible.
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Future State Performance Requirements: Goal 3
The new library will allow natural light into every public and private area as per appropriate lighting levels for each type of space (i.e. reading, lab, office, cafe, etc.
1
Performance Requirement: 1
All elevations will employ ample fenestration to mark entrances, delineate usage, and connect inerior/exterior spaces.
Performance Requirement: 2
2
Performance Requirement: 3
3
Areas along the third floor will be light with both natural and diffused light with the use of louvered fenestration.
The Library will maintain visible dialog between interior and exterior spaces on all uses along Highland Ave and College Ave elevations.
Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
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Future State Performance Requirements: Goal 4
1
The new library will provide a public cyber cafe
that will engender a casual and comfortable social spot within the library’s ground floor.
Performance Requirement: 1
The Cafe will have wireless internet access for a minimum for 50 users.
Performance Requirement: 2
The Cafe will be a minimum of 1500 square feet located on Ground Level adjacent to a sidewalk.
2 Library Cafe
3
Performance Requirement: 3
The Cafe will provide a commercial source of food and beverage but will be restricted to prepared food consumption.
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Spring 2007
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Future State Cost Evaluation
Building Footprint, Gross building area Efficiency Factor for a Library
Net Program Space (32,400 x .65)
COST ESTIMATE ANALYSIS
= 32,400 SF
= .65
= 21,060 SF
COST ESTIMATE ANALYSIS
COST ESTIMATE ANALYSIS
A- Building Costs B- Fixed Equipment C- Site Development
32,400 gsf x $120/gsf 6% of A 20% of A
$ 3,888,000 $ 233,280 $ 777,600
D- Total Construction
A+B+C
$ 4,898,880
E- Site Acquisition/Demo F- Moveable Equipment G- Professional Fees H- Contigencies J- Administrative Costs K- TOTAL BUDGET
Tagore Hernandez
8184 sf @ $114/sf 8% of A 6% of D 10% of D 1% of D
$ 6,975,705
D thru J
Spring 2007
$ 932,976 $ 311,040 $ 293,932 $ 489,888 $ 49,500
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Precedents in Design
1.
Seattle, Washington Ballard Library criterion: Neighborhood Connection Site Plan Environmentalism
2.
Los Angeles, California Hyde Park Branch Library noted: Light Screening, Circulation
3.
Svalbard, Norway Svalbard Research Centre criterion: Weather Condtions Critical Regionalism
4.
Allston, MA Allston Public Branch Library criterion: Urban Edge Conditions Materials
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Precedents in Design Precedent: 1 Project Architect Location Date Completed
Ballard Library Bohlin Cywinski Jackson Seattle, Washington 2005
Size
15,000 sf
Cost
$6,500,000
Observations This precedent was chosen for its neighborhood integration. It is similar to Davis’ dual edge site condtion with multiple entrance points along the same elevation. Buiding portrays an environmental agenda which is a key educational aspect to the design. Excellent environmental applications of green roof and recylced materials. Roof shape absorbs 86 percent of the site’s runoff and reduces heat gain. Users can inspect the roof in perseon by permission making exlcellent learning experience for young students and architecture students. Transparent edge conditions create direct visual connection to passerby’s inviting them in or exhibiting local activity vitality. The cuvilinear shape on main elevation reads as a seperate element within the building and could be a formal device for creating a seperate language for the proposed cyber cafe along Davis Square’s Highland Ave elevation. Circulation diagram shows double loaded access appropriate for multiple end users as way of seperating building use. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
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Precedents in Design Precedent #1
Circulation
Diagram (above) showing layers, featuring green roof. Louvered glazing diffuses light o. (right)
Fenestration
Massing Excting facade invites public and feels like more like an extenstion of the neighborhood hoousing than an public instition. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
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Precedents in Design Precedent: 2 Project Architect Location Date Completed Size Cost
Miriam Mathews Library Hodgetts + Fun Los Angeles, California 2004 10,500 sf $3,150,000
Observations This precedent was chosen for its glazing strategy and for its playful and spirited design design. The proposed library has an alley condition that has security issues. The architects for this project limited glazing mostly to the upper portions of the building for security reasons while adding projecting brise-soleils to the parking elevation (above). A portion of the rear elevation has been designated for local artist participation, this is an excellent way of giving the local art community of Davis a face. The architects used sustainable materials such as wood beams made from recyled lumber chips, sun-shading devices, and an entry canopy on the street facade clad with photovoltaic cells. Proposed library needs to exhibit a contemporary and youthful spirit without making it appear like a school. This project has the sophistication of modernism. It is layered with materials, colors, and light that is an interesting composition that is engaging and easy to understand. This building has a soaring space that says learning is important, it also a fun place to hang out. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
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Precedents in Design
Multiple layers are used without the massing loosing its individual identities.
Precedent: 2
Circulation
Fenestration
Massing
Brise-soleis as effective shading devices. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
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Precedents in Design Precedent: 3 Project
Svalbard Research Centre
Architect
Jarmund/Vigsnaea Architects
Location
Svalbard, Norway
Date Completed
2006
Size
275,000 sf
Cost
unpublished
Observations This precedent was chosen for its critical regionalism exhibited with its environmentally driven form. All 77 angles correspond with wind, light, polar bears, and snow drifts,. Despite extreme climate conditions, it’s a relevent example for buiding in cold weather regions with limited lighting. Boston’s cold seasons and few daylight hours during winter soltice is an environmental condition that the design requires to address. Interior spaces are lined with wood to create warm feeling during winter. Raised floors are filled with radiant system for energy effeciency. Cooper facing reduces building heat gain. Central stair hall connents all three levels of the reserch center. Dynamic circulation paths help direct people navigate through building. Proposed Library poses several challenges with mutiple users, funtions, and entry points. Circulation will need to be one of the main focus points. This building creates different physical paths within similar cores without delineating interior space.
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Precedents in Design
Beautiful material and craftsmanship make the space feel warm during cold and grey winter motnths.
Precedent: 3
Fenestration
Massing
Dynamic circulation elements in the space create an exciting and liveley environment to be in. It promotes exploration. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
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Precedents in Design Precedent: 4 Project
BPL Allston Library
Architect
Machado Silvetti
Location
Allston, MA
Date Completed
2001
Size
20,000 sf
Cost
$6,300,000
Observations This precedent was chosen for its strong edge condtion. It creates a wonderful cadence and meter as you stroll along the sidewalk that provides community harmony. The building reads as a library, maintains a strong visual connection to people at street level but remains intitmate and private in nature. Use of materials is very juducious. Contemporary in feel yet regional and appropriate to local vernacular. Interior courtyard creates a feeling of space within a space which can create sense of imagination in all building users. Bench along the exterior wall creates strong sense of genus loci where people can occasionaly stop, sit, and over time develop strong sense of spatial and cummunal memory. Cirulation is clear, simple, and swept to a minimum between focal program points. Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
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Precedents in Design
Datum line above pedestrian creates proper scale condtion for proposed Davis Square library. (right)
Precedent: 4
Circulation
Fenestration
Massing
Interior courtyard creates spaces within spaces. (right Tagore Hernandez
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Appendix Bibliography
notes
BOOKS: Allen, Richard. Community Planning. Planning Penguin Press. New York 1986. Duerk, Donna P. Architectural Programming: Information Management for Design. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1993 Design Lynch, Kevin. The he Image of the City. City MIT Press. Pena, William M., Steven A. Parhsall. Problem Seeking. 4th ed. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. p 88-91, 110-119, 124-128.
- resource for making initiatives in program wrtiting and decoding the language - this source clearly maps out the steps of writing in a friendly, accessibly way that can demystify the procoess for young architects. -Lynch, along with Pattern Language, was helpful in pointing out and diagramming how cities function, what matters, what works, and why. Emphasis on social affects of physical environments.
PERIODICALS: Campell, Robert, FAIA. Architectural Record. vol. 190, Jan 2002. “At the New Allston Library, Machado Silvetti pleases the Public with a Casual, Stylish building tauts more a Community Center.” p 86-91.
- precedent study 4. materials and edge conditions.
MacKeith, Peter. . Architectural Record. vol. 3, Feb 2004. “Jarmund/ Vigsnaeas Architects designed the Svlabard Research Center so it glows like a faceted shit in the arctic night.“ p. 111-117.
- precedent study 3. environment, critical regionalism, weather.
Murdock, James. Architectural Record. vol. 6, June 2006. “Branching Out: LA and other cities are encouraging greater diversity in the design of branch libraries and restoring a sense of civic pride in these buildings.” p. 145-148.
-concepts behind contemporary libraries. lighting, massing, program, local community forces. topics cover environmentalism and critical regionalism issues.
Pearson, Clifford A. Architectural Record. vol. 6, June 2006. “Hyde Park creates a branch that engauges the street in a lively manner while handleing difficult issues.“ p. 148-151. Russell, James S., AIA. Architectural Record. vol. 5, May 2006. “Bohlin Cywinski Jackson Seamlessly unites library and civic functions under a great sweep of planted roof.” p 158-163.
WEB SITES: www.bpl.org www.somervillepubliclibrary.org www.epodunk.com www.theweatherweek.com www.cityofboston.gov www,ci.boston.us/bra http://ksgaccman.harvard.edu www.ci.somerville.ma.us/AboutSomerville.cfmhttp://en.wikipedia.org www.epodunk.com Tagore Hernandez
Spring 2007
- precedent study 2. public edge condtion making, playful, circulation, and lighitng. - precedent study 1. massing, hybridization of program with mutiple civic uses.
-source for existing branch libraries. -source for history and local information on somerville communities -source on weather conditions -source on environmental conditions -source on history, zoning, bi-laws. -source for demographic information -source for hitstoy -source for demographic informaiton -source for property values and city data Davis Square, Somerville MA
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Appendix Supplemental Maps, Graphs, Images Diagrams, & Illustrations Cover
www.somerville/ma.gov
Page 6-8
http://ksgaccman.harvard.edu
Page 9
photographs by M. Tagore
Page 10
www.tuftslocalguide.edu
Page 11-19
photos and diagrams M. Tagore w/ Google Earth
Page 20
www.cityofboston.gov
Page 21-23
www.somervillebuilding.com
Page 24-25
www.epodunk.com
Page 26
www.epodunk.com
Page 27
Somerville Community Development Office
Page 29-32
diagrams by M. Tagore w/ Google Earth
Page 36
www.bpl.org
Page 40-45
photos and diagrams M. Tagore
Page 46-53
photos and diagrams M. Tagore www.architecturerecord.com
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Appendix User Group Interviews - East and West Branch Locations User 1: a librarian
User 1: a child patron, age 12
How does the library work for you and the rest of staff with respec to logisitics? There isnt’ enough storage space, the sound levels vary alot when kids come in, its very hot in the summer near all the windows-which is controlled by others. In all, the building works ok I suppose.
What additional spaces would does the library use beyond what’s required for public use?
There are rooms that have been dressed up and re-inveted as public meeting spaces. The architects didn’t think to add lecture rooms but there isn’t much space to give up anyhow. The computer spaces are always full, childrens spaces are a bit small and located where central desk can see. There’s offices for staff and a few odd rooms for storage.
Why do you go to the library?
To bring my children and to read.
I like getting lost or hiding in between all the book shelves. Its fun going around all the aisles and finding new things.
Do you spend time looking for information and then leave or do you stay?
Where is you favorite place to hang out?
Have you ever come for library events?
yes. It was a talker about my neighborhood and stuff. And then another time we cam and there was art and crafts happening. I really liked that.
What do you like about the children’s area?
Does the librarary have a layout that addresses sound levels and noice?
Is the building used by groups or individuals?
There isnt’ enough space. No. Sometimes I have to sit on the floor cuase there’s no seats but I don’t mind.
Both actually, We have several of each. Lots of individuals from all ages and demographics, lots of Tufts kids, and lots of childrens groups from the area.
What do the groups do?
Groups come to do crafts, or story time which is a favorite for them. Some come to do school projects and then we have small lectures by guest speakers whos bring their own adult crowds.
Is there enough room for young people to sit in when they’re reading? Do you have a favorite library, and why?
I like the one near to my house cuase its big and full of big spaces and fun stairs. I don’t remember the name. (East Branch Somerville Library as confirmed my her mother).
I typically have my kids so I get what I need and then leave although if there’s any activities I’ll stay so the kids can participate.
Is seating adequate?
Yeah, I’d say its pretty good. I think the levels of light are so so but seating is mostly fine. I’d love to see some nicer furniture in general but I know thats expensive for the city.
Is sound reasonable, or do you find it disturbing when there are lots of people?
Its good. Usually, the sound you hear is what you’d expect in a library. I don’t exactly want there to be total silence because a library isn’t a monastery, you’re in a public building and that (pointing around) is the sound of your community learning. I think that’s good.
Do you come for events or lectures?
I wish I came to more of them!
Do you think the public and private spaces are adequate?
What would you add to this library if you could?
I think I’d add more staff fascilites, storage, and lighting. The climate inside varies and I think there could be seperate controls for different spaces or areas. The reception and info desks could be more effiecient with built in stuff or simply better designed. The security is something I would like to see change but not sure how. Spring 2007
Why types of media do you use?
I check out everything they offer; books, movies, DVDs, videos, and magazines.
The lecture rooms are little strange feeling. Cold feeling with low ceilings and bad artificial light. I think there could be more natural light or ventilation.
What would you change about the layout or general building use if you could?
Tagore Hernandez
Why do you go to the library?
Cause my parents bring me so she can get books but I like to read and play with the stuff they have for kids.
Its small just like kids. Seats are small and tables are small. Plus there is colors and things that we have in school. I like the little sofas and how everything is low and easy to read.
Yes, the edges of the library are used for small informal seating for reading and such. All the main activities are clustered in the heart of building.
User 1: an adult patron
Are you kidding? I’d add a cafe in a heartbeat. Its bad enough when you bring your kids and one gets hungry all of a sudden in the middle of a great story. I think it would be great to have some sort of cybercafe space in the middle or something to give people a place to drink coffee or nibble like they do at some many new bookstores nowadays. Davis Square, Somerville MA
Library Program