Location
Niagara, ON
Size
7,821 sf
Client
Niagara Falls Public Library
Status
In Construction
DPAI was commissioned to design an inclusive space to welcome diverse members of the community, with special emphasis on Seniors and school communities, while also considering the needs of staff to optimize operations. To ensure the new space can evolve over time with the ever-changing needs of a library, a flexible and open plan was developed. Low, moveable stacks and furniture were introduced to allow the space to be easily reconfigured as required. A large multi-functional program room, along with additional meeting rooms offer much needed community space to serve a variety of functions both during business hours and after-hours.
Located in a 1960’s strip mall, this branch of the Niagara Falls Public Library – Stamford Location was ready for expansion to better serve the community. Originally designed over 30 years ago, extensive changes and planning were required to modernize this location to reflect today’s libraries.
Inclusivity and accessibility were prioritized throughout the design process, and the addition of a universal, barrier-free, and gender inclusive washrooms helps the library communicate that it is not only an accessible, safe and welcoming space for all. Back-of-house and staff areas are upgraded to be comfortable, functional spaces to support staff in their day-to-day activities. The inclusion of flexible technology ensures the Stamford library location moves forward as both a vital community and digital hub.
