Premise:
Libraries are vital community resources, providing access to information, culture, and education. However, traditional library designs often present significant barriers for people with disabilities. This competition challenges participants to rethink library design from the ground up, prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity for users with a wide range of disabilities.
The aim is to create a welcoming and empowering space that facilitates exploration, learning, and social interaction for everyone, regardless of their physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities. The design should go beyond simply meeting accessibility codes and strive to create a truly inclusive and enriching experience for all users. Consider how the design can foster a sense of belonging and community for disabled individuals.
Objective:
Design a state-of-the-art library specifically tailored to the needs of individuals with various disabilities, fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for all users. The design should seamlessly integrate assistive technologies and incorporate universal design principles. Key objectives include ensuring barrier-free access throughout the building, providing adaptable spaces for different needs and preferences, and creating a sensory-rich environment that caters to diverse sensory profiles.
The library should offer a comprehensive collection of accessible materials, including braille books, audiobooks, and large-print resources. Furthermore, the design should promote social interaction and create opportunities for collaboration and community building among disabled users. The space should be flexible and adaptable to accommodate a wide range of activities and programs, encouraging lifelong learning and community engagement.
Site:
The competition site is open to the designer's interpretation, allowing for maximum creativity and flexibility in design solutions. Participants are encouraged to envision the library within a community setting, considering factors like access to public transportation and proximity to other essential services.
While the specific size and location of the site are not prescribed, the proposed library should be of sufficient size to accommodate a diverse range of library functions, including individual study areas, group collaboration spaces, a dedicated children's area, and a technology center.
A suggested area between 5,000 and 20,000 square feet is recommended to ensure adequate space for these functions, but designs exceeding or slightly falling short of this range will also be considered. The site selection should be justified in the design proposal, demonstrating how the chosen location contributes to the accessibility and inclusivity of the library.
Constraints:
The primary constraint of this competition is the requirement to adhere to and surpass standard accessibility guidelines and regulations. The design must be fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or equivalent accessibility standards applicable in the chosen location.
Beyond simply meeting these minimum requirements, the design should strive to create a truly inclusive environment that anticipates and addresses the diverse needs of disabled users. Budget considerations should be acknowledged, though precise cost limitations are not explicitly defined for this stage.
Participants are encouraged to demonstrate cost-effectiveness in their design choices, prioritizing sustainable and durable materials. The design should also consider the environmental impact of the building, incorporating sustainable design principles where possible.
Finally, the design should be aesthetically pleasing and welcoming, promoting a sense of comfort and belonging for all users.
