Robin Hood Libraries - PS 32

2004
Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects
Bronx, NY

1,450 GSF

Education & Libraries
Civic

2006, IES New York, Lumen Award of Merit with Distinction for Civil Service

Working with schools in high poverty, low academic achievement neighborhoods, the Robin Hood Foundation‘s L!brary Initiative aims to transform school libraries into vital resources for the entire community. RDG’s work at PS 32 in The Bronx encompassed lighting design that would help create inviting, intimate spaces for children to read and learn.

The library’s grand gesture is its deep blue ceiling, in which a ‘random’ field of downlights conjures images of a starry sky. Reading alcoves wrapped in wood emanate a warm glow, while special reading areas are identified with tall, custom designed shades covering recessed downlights. Students now have a revitalized environment in which to read, learn and enjoy.