
Byram Shubert Library
Byram Shubert Library


Site plans (before and after)

New entry to the library

Project Information
Byram Shubert Library
Greenwich, CT
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Renovation
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Restoration
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New Construction
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11,000 sf
Honors and Awards
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2010 AIA Westchester/Hudson Valley High Honor Award
Byram Shubert Library, designed by R. Marshall Christensen, opened in 1974. The Scandinavian Modern building was designed to harmonize with an adjacent elementary school and the surrounding neighborhood. The interior was designed to be comfortable and non-institutional.
Key objectives for the new design:
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Create a larger library accommodating children and adults at the same time.
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Configure the expanded library so that the current staff can operate it.
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Respect and enhance the architectural language of the original design.
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Design a building that is more energy efficient.
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Create a site plan better adapted to the setting.
Byram has been transformed in terms of its setting and function. The new 5,500 sf addition has doubled the size of the library. It creates a split-level connection to the original library, with the community room below the main level and the children’s room above it. This configuration successfully separates the intensely-used children’s area on the upper level from the quieter adult space one-half level below. The adult library space on the main level offers zones for privacy, research and browsing.
The addition respects the architectural language of the original building, with its undulating roof forms, exposed wood glulam beams, and acoustical wood ceilings. Exterior brick and trim colors unite the original building and the new addition. Improvements included a new mechanical system, energy efficient windows, and lighting. Improvements were also made to parking, traffic, and pedestrian circulation.