design II: barnard college library proposal

Professor Peter Zuspan

Using the program and site analysis from the midterm, a proposal was designed to utilize and exploit the peer pressure created in the library in a positive manner. Through books that could be removed or rearranged on the shelves, users can organize and occupy each reading room according to their own personal study habits and desires. The entire proposal is designed to encourage users to utilize the social system of the peer pressure, in addition to responding to the unique built environment and circulation of Barnard College. In addition, the proposal adds green space as well as performance space, which is limited on campus.

Above: Perspective of connection between buildings

 

 

 

 

 

 

design II: barnard college library program

Professor Peter Zuspan

Before proposing a library design to replace the existing library on Barnard College’s campus, analysis of library social systems and the site was undertaken which focused on the “peer pressure” that organizes and controls social systems. Using the example of the panopticon, an analysis of the libraries on campus revealed a similar pressure to focus on studying. In addition, the analysis revealed the social system of occupying space through placement of books and other belongings. The proposal also included an interest in rearrangement of books throughout the library, and the unique academic connections that may be made through the new relations. Then analysis of the site was undertaken revealing the agglomeration of several different building types, and the “jig-jogs” of the site which force users to constantly turn during circulation. The midterm project presented these findings.

Above: Analysis of library users and occupation