Library Visions
Possible Landscaping for Jayson Architecture Proposal
by Natalie Dean, Designer
Jayson Architecture has offered an inspiring vision for the renovation of our existing downtown library, but does not (yet) include specific landscape plans. With the inclusion of additional funding, the City can help create an attractive and inviting library with a landscape to match. This conceptual design highlights the myriad opportunities for gathering spaces, relaxing nooks, public art, and beautiful gardens at the current library location.
The library is located in a prime spot opposite City Hall, which is already home to attractive gardens, including a rain garden, rose garden, and various colorful and unusual plants. The library, renovated and re-landscaped, adds to this downtown Civic Center with an inviting exterior landscape showcasing our region’s spectacular native plants and helping to create a garden “corridor” and a strong sense of place. Public art, crafted by local artists, enhances this sense of place and pride in the community and takes the form of garden sculptures, glass art to reduce bird collisions with the windows, fun bike racks, and more. |
Natalie Dean, Designer
natgdean (at) gmail (dot) com |
The design adds detail to Jayson’s concept, which suggested the inclusion of Cor-ten steel retaining walls at the reconfigured entry and patios with permeable pavers in the pack. This design adds wood slat benches atop the Cor-ten, reflecting the building’s exterior architecture and providing a place to pause and enjoy the garden. Stumps repurposed from removed trees offer a shady gathering spot under an existing tree near parking, giving the space a “parklet” feel. The plant palette is almost entirely composed of native, low-water, and bird- and pollinator-friendly plants and trees. A handful of vibrantly-colored plants were chosen to complement the architecture and the opposing City Hall gardens. The use of native plants, rain gardens, and public art opens up possibilities for local organizations and schools for collaboration, education, and funding.