- Valley Plaza Branch Library
- A new rehabilitation centre is being added to the existing Valley Plaza Branch Library. The
site is next to a freeway, where there are a lot of people experiencing homelessness. This
rehab centre acts as a halfway home,
which will help them to get back on their feet. People experiencing homelessness might have
a substance abuse issue, so detox facilities combined with a learning centre allow them to
get clean and back on their feet.
The concept is to create a biophilic environment and a space that will help residents heal
and recover.
- The addition and existing structure interact through the existing columns, and the roof
caves in to create shafts that bring access for circulation and vegetation in both
structures. The facade mimics the pattern in nature, allowing light to enter the structure
throughout the day. Natural lights also help with healing.
The columns are extended into the addition at a specific height which allows different
spaces to interact with columns differently.
The space creates an exterior interior language that allows the residents to spend time
outside of the confined spaces. The addition creates fluid open spaces, and the colours act
as a wayfinding system to give residents a sense of control that is important for recovery
and healing. The program is also differentiated through a drop in the floor plate along with
the colour.
The organic form of the addition wraps around the existing building. The existing building
has colour on the exterior; however, the addition takes the colour into the interior of the
building with a white exterior.
