|
Study room, Widener Library
Beatly Library, Simmons College
|
|
Today's libraries are not simply depositories for books; they are advanced information centers. The decision to upgrade a library's facilities can exponentially benefit its end users. But anyone who has ever sneezed in a library, let alone performed construction in one, knows what a sensitive area a library is. The successful outcome of a library construction project relies heavily on the aptitude of the general
contractor. Aptitude, consequently, relies on experience. When the two come together, however, it is the end user that clearly reaps the benefits.
Harvard University's entering class of 2010, for example, enjoys the magnificence and excellence of the final touches of a six-year restoration and renovation, designed by Einhom Yaffee Prescott Architecture and Engineering, of the Widener Library. The Widener Library was built in 1915 and houses 3.5 million volumes. Lee Kennedy Co. provided the preconstruction and construction services for this three-phased project that outfits a historic building and important cultural resource with the systems and capabilities necessary to continue its legacy for many years to come.
Throughout both of the first two phases, major renovations were made to provide state-of-the-art mechanical, security, and fire suppression systems. The first phase covered 340,000 s.f. and included the renovation of two interior courtyards that were infilled with three floor levels and capped with skylights for use as offices and reading rooms. Phase II required detailed restoration of architectural features and finishes plus the creation of additional programmatic space. The final phase, just completed, concentrated on the exterior of the building. Some of the work performed included relocating utilities and restoration of the brick and stone exterior of the Widener Library using a chemical free process. As with the first two phases, the library remained fully operational during the final phase giving the graduating class of 2005, the opportunity not only to see the end results of the renovation and restoration but also to have appreciated the transformation before their eyes.
Within the six-year time frame of the Widener Library project Lee Kennedy Co. also completed Phase IIc of the intricate Boston Public Library McKim Building Restoration, refurbishing all details from historically painted murals and handcrafted woodwork to the ceiling's heavy ornamental rafters. The scope also included modifications of skylights to replace glum fluorescent lighting and MEP work was performed throughout, to bring all systems up to date.
In complete contrast to the historic McKim Building Restoration is the construction of the cutting edge new library at Middlebury College. The architects, Gwathmey Siegel & Associates Architects, designed this three-story structure to fit the classic, academic integrity of the college, while serving as an information center for tomorrow's student. The flexible space allows for increased growth of conventional print media as well as new electronic technology.
The completion of these notable projects does not mark the close of Lee Kennedy Co.'s library work. Currently, the company is in the midst of an extensive renovation and expansion of the Beatley Library for Simmons College. The project involves the construction of a new 61,900 s.f. building and use of a dramatic new five-story glass tower to join the structure to the completely gutted and renovated adjacent 55,000 s.f. building. The project also includes new technology equipped group study rooms, classrooms and meeting spaces that will accommodate 21st century teaching and learning.
Additionally, this past September, LKCo started the three-floor build-out of Suffolk University’s new 46,265 s.f. Mildred F. Sawyer Library in the heart
of downtown Boston. Construction occurs in a fully-occupied building located next to the historic Granary Burial Ground. The new library includes construction of stair towers and installation of elevators. High-end millwork is being performed throughout and elaborate decorative ceilings will be created to fuse the turn of the century building with its new high-tech library.
Project Executive Bob O'Leary has been at the helm for the majority of the company’s library projects. "After completing landmark undertakings like Widener, Middlebury and Boston Public Library, we were excited to segue into the library projects for Simmons and Suffolk," notes O'Leary. "We're not only developing and strengthening our library knowledge but we're continuing to refine our skills to provide clients with excellence," he adds.
|
