Designing a library that is more than the norm
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) envisioned a library that was inspired by the needs of today’s students and the evolving skills they would require for the rest of their lives. Mary Idema Pew Library Learning and Information Commons—a true shift in library creation—is designed to connect the library more closely to student learning and success. So how do we design a library that meets the need for browsable materials with a desirable study and collaboration space?
At a Glance
- Offices
The face of the learning commons
The building is sheathed in natural stonework, echoing a deep appreciation for Grand Valley’s architectural context. The stone rebuilds the lost characteristics of the location: a once heavily wooded site cascading through deep ravines to the banks of the Grand River. With a 40-foot glass curtain wall, the library looks out onto the campus—and the campus looks back inside. During the day, the building is filled with natural light through the massive windows and a number of punched windows on other exterior walls. At night, the building becomes a beacon, a transparent hive of activity that draws users inside.Joe Lapinski, Senior Associate
None of my inventions ever came about by accident, they came about by work – Thomas Edison
Patrick Calhoun, Senior Associate, Business Center Operations Leader, Senior Planner
In educational building design, you like hearing how your design positively impacts students. When you extrapolate out to future generations, that experience is both joyful and humbling.
Casimir Zalewski, Principal, Buildings
It is my goal to tailor a system that is reliable, maintainable, and efficient that folds into the architecture of the project.
Steve Jelinek, Senior Associate, Senior Designer
I believe in enhancing the human experience—I just happen to practice architecture.
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