A Community Destination

Libbie Mill Library

Libbie Mill Library

Henrico, Virginia

This new library places learning at the forefront of an emerging development. Envisioned as the community’s “living room,” the library connects to existing and planned amenities to create a vibrant hub for the mixed-use neighborhood.

We enlivened the library’s box-like form with cantilevered meeting and reading rooms that project off the building’s surface. This rhythm continues in the interior, with study rooms articulated as smaller volumes within the soaring space. A central collaboration zone between the adult and teen areas places a digital media lab and a variety of group study areas within easy reach. True to the community’s sustainable aspirations, the library has achieved LEED Silver certification.

A Community Destination
Nothing less than 5 stars for this library!
An aerial photo of Libbie Mill Midtown.

New Urbanism in Practice

The Libbie Mill Midtown development is planned according to the principles of New Urbanism, a movement that seeks to create walkable neighborhoods incorporating retail, office, and residential uses. Abutting the central green space and promenade, the library is the focal point of the new community.

A photo of a seating space inside a library.

Sustainable Design

We carefully sited the building and its windows to maximize daylighting while minimizing solar heat gain. The interior LED lighting systems are equipped with daylight and occupancy sensors, only turning on when needed. The water-efficient landscaping requires no irrigation.

A photo of a child picking books at a library.
A photo of the interior of a library.
A photo of people using computers in a library computer lab.

Technology-Rich Spaces

We integrated cutting-edge technologies throughout the library. Public computer stations provide access to a range of online services. Group study rooms feature flat panel displays that allow collaborators to share content. The digital media lab provides specialty design programs and a 3D printer.

A photo of children performing a puppet show in a library.

A Place for Young Learners

The children’s area is a tactile and interactive learning center. Reading nooks, child-sized furniture, and upholstered see-saws embed movement, play, and sensory stimulation into the reading experience.

A photo of people reading and talking in a library.

Teen Central

We created a unique space for teens that adds a social element to the traditional library program. Young adult collections are housed among small group study rooms and open gathering areas, including a space for groups to play video games together.

More Projects From Our Portfolio