DESIGNWORKS 2019

Richland Library Edgewood

Columbia, South Carolina

Studio 2LR, Inc.

Gretchen Lamber (Project Architect), Tripp Riley (Project Architect, Interior Design) , Katie Riley (Interior Design), Julia Kuhn (Interior Design), Leeann Mustain (Project Manager)

Richland Library Edgewood occupies a former 7,350 SF Dollar General store and serves as the first public library for the Edgewood neighborhood in more than 40 years since the Waverly branch on Gervais Street closed in 1971.

The floor plan is organized along a central corridor, with custom graphics over the existing concrete floor serving as a visual guide from the lobby. A large multi-purpose room with a moveable wall partition flanks the main entrance lobby and features a patterned LVT to hide mess and provide durability. The children’s area features softer padded carpet, bench seating, and moveable furniture for maximum flexibility. Staff areas are situated along the rear of the building and open onto the main circulation areas. A business center and computer area provide internet access with multiple seating and work surface options.

The existing building was re-imagined to reflect the history and values of the surrounding community. Quilt patterns play an important role in the African-American culture and served as inspiration for color and texture. Color and pattern are carried throughout the design, both interior and exterior, as a response to the community’s desire for bright colors and texture. A history wall featuring images collected from the community serves as a reminder of the historic fabric of the Edgewood Community. Several mirrors are inlayed into the wall to allow residents to see their own reflection woven into the historic “quilt”, while on the exterior, a custom art installation features silhouettes of local community members.