Every year, the Columbus Landmarks Foundation recognizes the best in local urban design through their James B. Recchie Awards, and tonight the new Columbus Metropolitan Library Driving Park Branch was honored as this year’s winner. The library, located at 1442 East Livingston Avenue, was designed by NBBJ, and opened to the public last summer.
“This building stands out in its mission to serve a neighborhood in Columbus where the library goes beyond the traditional image of the institution,” said Nancy Recchie, Historic Preservation Consultant with Benjamin D. Rickey & Co and sister of the Award’s namesake. “The quality of light, materials, spaces and uses underscore the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s commitment to the city and all residents.”
Recchie noted that first year metrics back up the assertion that the improved design has helped encourage library use. Total visits increased 60 percent, circulation increased 200 percent, the homework help center usage increased 110 percent, and community room usage increased 400 percent.
“All of this was accomplished with the creation of a warm, inviting, dynamic and safe environment,” she added.”
The other finalist in the 2015 awards include:
- Cristo Rey Columbus High School – Designed by Schooley Caldwell Associates
- Le Meridien The Joseph, The offices at the Joseph, & Pizzuti Collection – Designed by Arquitectonica, Lupton Rausch Associates, Glavan Feher Architects and Elness Swenson Graham Architects
- Long Street Bridge and Cultural Wall – Designed by Burgess & Niple and MKSK Studios, artist design by Larry Winston Collins and Kojo Kamau
- Stewart Alternative Elementary School – Designed by Hardlines Design and Schooley Caldwell Architects
For more information, visit www.columbuslandmarks.org.
All photos provided by NBBJ.