Henry S. Terrazas Branch Library

Austin, Texas

Firm

Lawrence Group

Client

City of Austin

Area

10,400 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$1,500,000

Completion Date

05/2006

Educational programming for the new library includes an open reading room for adults and young adults, a youth computer room, two meeting/tutoring rooms, a children’s reading room, public-use computer area and an immigration-counseling area.
A prominent Spanish arch on the existing facility inspired the design of the gut renovation and addition, and is repeated on the front facade to combine the old and new structures seamlessly. The new design defines specific areas of activity within an open floor plan and allows visual access to public elements for security reasons. A screen wall in the computer area allows visibility by staff and provides a sense of privacy.
Materials and forms such as volcanic rock pavers imported from Mexico and the heavy glulam beam roof structure emphasize the cultural significance of the historically Hispanic community. A screen wall and aluminum plate were created using the traditional art of punching paper (papel picado).
Elements of sun and water are incorporated throughout, including a beam of light in the reading room that allows a perspective of time.