Miller Library Renovations

Waterville, Maine

Firm

Harriman

Client

Colby College

Area

72,300 sq.ft.

Completion Date

09/2014

The renovation of Colby College’s Miller Library created a renewed experience and expansion of resources in this important historic building. Great care was taken to restore the original architectural character of the entrance, lobby and main reading room. Period-sensitive elements were blended with original details to reestablish its dignity of place. Where this fabric was disturbed, modern systems were inserted to provide an intentional counterpoint.
A past reorganization converted the library’s central reading room into offices and technical support areas. A new entrance sequence creates light-filled transparent connections into interior spaces. Custom wood display cases, bookshelves, wainscoting and trim complement new interior finishes, LED lighting, mechanical and electrical systems to recreate a timeless environment replete with modern amenities.
The revised layout and new circulation pattern required significant modifications to the load-bearing masonry structure. Walls supporting the seven-story clock tower were altered to insert a new stair and elevator openings. The complex and comprehensive project was phased over two summer construction periods.

Additional Information

Featured in

2016 Educational Interiors Showcase

Category

Renovation

Interior category

Libraries/Media Centers

Product suppliers specified

Carpet by Tandus
Flooring by Johnsonite
Flooring by Mannington
Cabinets by Columbia Forest Products
Ceilings by Armstrong World Industries
Ceramic Tile by Dal-Tile
Ceramic Tile by Crossville
Door Hardware by Schlage
Door Hardware by Rockwood
Door Hardware by Von Duprin
Doors by Eggers
Doors by Algoma Hardwoods
Paint/Wallcoverings by Sherwin-Williams
Plumbing by Zurn
Plumbing by American Standard
Lighting & Accessories by Philips
Fire/Life-Safety Systems by Honeywell
Locks by Schlage
Classroom Furniture by HON
Classroom Furniture by Bernhardt
Classroom Furniture by National Public Seating
Classroom Furniture by Allsteel
Library/Media Center Furniture by HON
Library/Media Center Furniture by Bernhardt
Library/Media Center Furniture by National Public Seating
Library/Media Center Furniture by Allsteel
Drinking Fountains by Elkay
Washroom Accessories by Bobrick
Washroom Fixtures by American Standard
Washroom Fixtures by Zurn
Washroom/Shower Partitions by Scranton Products
HVAC Units by McQuay
HVAC Units by Xetex
HVAC Control Devices by Johnson Controls
Whiteboards / Markerboards / Chalkboards by Claridge
Draperies/Blinds by Draper
Projection Screens by Draper
Cabinets by Corian
Cabinets by Pionite
Cabinets by Wilsonart
Movable Partitions/Walls by Momentum Fabric
Movable Partitions/Walls by Maharam
Movable Partitions/Walls by Guilford of Maine
Load more

AS&U Design Competitions

The ultimate tribute to education design excellence. If selected for publication, this distinctive...

Have an exceptional project that deserves national recognition? Want to show your best work to the...