MPL1 : Lakeview Branch Library, Mississauga, Ontario. Completed 2011. RDH Architects are responsible for the major renovation of three branch libraries in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. The design is based on an adaptive re-use strategy for renovations and additions to the Lakeview, Port Credit, and Lorne Park branch libraries, all dating from between 1956 and 1967. The three renovations have been structured as one project. This strategy was put forth by the client as a means to use public infrastructure money in an efficient manner. The original three libraries were designed as mid-century modern buildings, displaying similar physical and aesthetic characteristics. As such, the design for the projects is based on the development of a single vocabulary of consistent parts which can be applied to each of the three libraries in a varied manner. The solution offers a balance between an appropriate response to three very similar buildings and an efficient solution for a fast paced schedule. One part of this common vocabulary is the creation of a new steel frame canopy system for each building. The canopy system integrates the existing building volumes and transforms the exterior aesthetic of each library. Each system provides for solid canopies, solar shading, volumetric integration, led lighting and planting. Renovations also include new high-efficiency glazing and a complete gutting and redesign of all interior spaces. The Lakeview Library is the first of the three branch libraries which comprise the greater Mississauga Library project. This branch is located adjacent to a park, within a mid century subrurban residential community. The canopy system collonade engages with the main access street to the north, parking to the west and a park setting to the south and east. Large fields of energy efficient, double glazed glass are used as virtual voids within the envelope. These voids help to exentuate an elevational rythym of vertical solids and voids within the original buidlign design. Structural glass partition walls and low shelving help to reinforce a material vocabulary of transparency throughout the facility. This transparency is complimented by Douglas Fir book stacks and vibrant accent walls of yellow and green. Awards and Publications : 2012 Governor General's Medal in Architecture 2012 Canadian Architect magazine. Governor General's Medals - Feature project. May 2012 Edition.
