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Maryvale/Palo Verde Library & Community Center

Phoenix, Arizona

Located at one edge of a public park, this beacon for the community explores the idea of transparency with metal-clad structures sited upon 8 foot high bands of clear glass. Comprised of a 16,000 square foot library and a 27,000 square foot community center, the new complex creates a “mind/body dialogue” between its two buildings.   It is connected by a breezeway, and each volume represents exercise – one for the mind and the other for the body.  The library features a teen center designed by teens, study room, computer training lab, children's story room, as well as a 100-seat state-of-the-art auditorium that is shared with the community center.  Community center highlights include a full-court gymnasium, walking track, dance room, seniors lounge, and multi-purpose room.

Led by Wendell Burnette Architects in conjunction with Gould Evans, the design team met the challenge of creating a stimulating and engaging atmosphere with minimal equipment and a very limited $11.5 million budget.  In addition, the lighting approach addressed a wide range of patrons, from small children to senior citizens.   A combination of localized and general lighting was used in the library space for cost and energy effectiveness.  Daylighting in the space was also a major consideration, and in order to take advantage of the Phoenix climate, solar tubes were placed at regular patterns in the library for friendly daylighting for the majority of the day.