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Grimm & Parker Logo

Rockville Memorial Library

Rockville, Maryland

client

Montgomery County Public Libraries

size

100,000 sf

type

New Construction

Facing a pedestrian plaza brimming with activity, the Rockville Memorial Library stands as a vital mainstay in the community, serving as a beacon even through the economic downturn of 2008/2009 as surrounding businesses closed. Glowing and inviting, the library welcomes all to enter and enjoy with extended opening hours.

Street level retail surrounds the Rockville Town Square, creating a constant buzz of life and energy that flows into the library. The library’s undulating façade distinguishes it from its commercial context, and pays homage to the mapping of the human genome which took place in Rockville in 2000.

Soaring Staircase

Entering the lobby from the heart of the Rockville Town Square, visitors are drawn into the oval-shaped volume that visually connects the two public floors of the library. A transparent, curving stair reaches up to a starry sky dimpled with LED lights.

Dramatic Spaces

Bookshelves are arranged in a radial pattern, allowing optimal sightlines from the staff service desk. A curving wonder wall separates the public and private areas such as this children's area. 

Closing Thoughts

This dramatic, two-story lobby has a terrazzo floor patterened after the human genome and a starry night ceiling that evokes wonder. 

Awards

AIA Honor Award for Architectural Excellence

AIA Potomac Valley

Award of Excellence

NAIOP, MD/DC Chapter

Historic Preservation Award

Peerless Rockville

Craftsmanship Award

Washington Building Congress (WBC)

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