Cascade Public Library is the design for a branch library located in Chelsea, Manhattan. The building places an emphasis on the environmental strategy of the building to create a more energy efficient design. Utilizing a natural ventilation airflow and a radiant slab system, various thermal zones are created throughout the building. This allows for different areas of the library to be kept at different temperatures throughout the year to reduce the amount of energy output from the building. The thermal zones are identified by the various cubes throughout the spaces, making them easily spotted by the public. To further develop this idea, the building employs several types of operable window modules and terraces to allow the building to connect with the outside when the weather is nice. This provides a unique experience for people by bringing the outdoors inside. Many libraries will try to engage people by bringing the books outside, but instead Cascade seeks to bring the outdoors to the people. The building employs a bubble deck slab system to help reduce the overall slab depth and integrate with the radiant floor heating system. This system allows for the ceiling and majority of the building to be devoid of traditional HVAC since the environmental strategy of the building would require very little ductwork. The few ducts the building needs would be concealed in the top of the wall partitions of the isolated zones to help provide air circulation. Working together, the building systems will help to minimize the overall energy consumption of the building and reduce its footprint on the environment.

Exterior Render

A night rendering showing off the linear light array and cascading exterior of the building.

Fourth Floor Plan

Fourth floor of the library showcasing one of the reading zones within glass bricks. In addition, the floor features operable facade modules and a terrace.

Reflected ceiling plan - entry floor

A reflected ceiling plan showing the unique linear light area of the building as well as the precast ceiling panels to create a unique visual and spatial experience for the library visitors.

Detail section

Section drawing showcasing the slab build up as well as the interior partitions. The slab type is a bubble deck concrete system to minimize the depth of the slab and reduce the amount of concrete required, making the design more sustainable.