Snøhetta’s design for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library was recently selected as the winning entry in a competition to design the facility. The design is informed by the President’s personal reflections on the landscape, his commitment to environmental stewardship, and the periods of quiet introspection and civic engagement that marked his life.
The facility is conceived as a journey through a preserved landscape of diverse habitats, punctuated with small pavilions providing spaces for reflection and activity. Set at the northeast edge of a butte, the landscape is preserved for conservation research while offering a setting for educational walks, leisure, and recreation. Paths will connect to the nearby Maah Daah Trail and several small pavilions. These pavilions will range from small nooks to expansive vistas.
An accessible rooftop provides views of the National Park, connecting visitors to Roosevelt’s legacy. At night, the roof will provide an ideal location for stargazing. A covered porch that overlooks the nearby valleys can be used for gatherings throughout the year. Additionally, large windows will highlight views to historically significant landscapes and blur the line between interior and exterior.
The library’s construction will use locally sourced and renewable materials while sophisticated energy systems will set a new standard for sustainable design in the region. The design also mitigates the impact of wind and other climatic factors so the library will be accessible in all seasons.
Related Stories
University Buildings | Dec 5, 2017
UCLA’s Hedrick Study combines a library, lounge, and dining hall
Johnson Favaro designed the space.
Architects | Oct 11, 2017
Architects to policymakers: Buildings are infrastructure, too
Left out of this ongoing national debate over infrastructure are the nation’s other public buildings: the libraries, community centers, courthouses, community college buildings, affordable housing developments, and justice facilities.
Green | Sep 12, 2017
Brooklyn’s Windsor Terrace Library gets a living roof
The roof was funded through a process that allows local residents to decide how City capital dollars are spent in their neighborhoods.
Libraries | Sep 1, 2017
Johnson Favaro selected to design new main library in Riverside, Calif.
The choice comes after a 12-year planning process and a yearlong selection process.
Libraries | Aug 30, 2017
1850s library building is brought into the 21st century
The original building was updated and given a new extension and landscaping.
Libraries | Aug 18, 2017
Johnson Favaro-designed Lions Park project breaks ground in Costa Mesa
The project includes a new library, the renovation of the existing library, and the redevelopment of parkland.
Libraries | Aug 17, 2017
San Diego’s newest library branch will be family focused
The long-delayed project reflects community design input.
Libraries | May 31, 2017
A year after its facelift, Boston’s Public Library is relevant again
Visitors are flocking to its brighter, connected halls, which now include retail and digital components.
Libraries | May 16, 2017
A New York-area community college adds new zest to its library
Wired seating and group work areas abound.
Cultural Facilities | May 4, 2017
Obama Foundation reveals first look at the Obama Presidential Center
The design comprises three buildings set in the public space of Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side.
