Connective Simplicity

405 5th Ave,  New York, NY

Spring 2016 | Prof. Terrance Goode | ARC 208: Program Matters

Attracting users through the use of a collaborative space that could be used by all was the main component of this NYPL Midtown Branch redesign. The interior of the form allows for the mixing of groups to occur throughout the one floor that intersects both the Library and WeWork offices. The open-air atrium acts as a collection space for all users before being able to enter into the shared common space above. The space hangs over the large atrium, which includes the large auditorium, shared food spaces and the multi-purpose area. This acts as an interest point for people to see and then to wander to look at the Library and peek into the WeWork offices. Both programs strive to better the people that use them, so the collaborative floor can allow for the separate programs to intermingle with each other. 

Structurally, the Library and WeWork towers are made of columns and beams, the Library having a denser column grid due to the large number of stacks and WeWork having a few larger spans to allow for the open office. The atrium in this case, still acts as the main attractor point because of the heavy trusses needed to hold up the auditorium. But this connection between all three, can begin to influence the structure as well.