Osborne Library

Osborne Library Architectural Narrative

The Osborne Library, as it stands, does not have a front door. Its original entrance was through a passageway off the main house, which no longer exists. This proposal reestablishes the former entry sequence, creating an addition that brings the visitor to the space through the original grand door into the sunlight-filled tile-floored solarium. The addition features an on-grade entrance vestibule and lobby on the northwest of the building, with a small elevator and new stairs built to meet modern codes. An information desk stands in the lobby, which is adjacent to a storeroom /office and an accessible bathroom. From this area, visitors travel either downstairs to the office spaces or upstairs to the solarium, study and library. Part of the core of the addition is a two-story area that houses the new stair, elevator, and an accessible bathroom and drinking fountain on each floor.

The main floor, designed to be acoustically correct for music, will be available for conferences, social events and other intimate gatherings.



Osborne Library Building Uses Available After Renovation

The lower level spaces:

Offices:

This proposal includes a floor layout for a hypothetical small business:

-          A large conference room with kitchenette

-          Space for a receptionist

-          Private office

-          Cubicle spaces for seven employees

-          Accessible toilet room

Administrator’s office:

-    A 200-square-foot office for the person or persons who will coordinate the uses of the building

Caterer’s Kitchenette (A dual-use small kitchen area):

-          For occupants of the building to use for lunch storage and preparation

-          For caterers to use for meal storage and distribution for special events



Osborne Library Building Uses Available After Renovation 

The upper level spaces:

            Solarium & Terrace: For small casual receptions and waiting area

            Study: Repository of Osborne Family Memorabilia and Library; possible gift shop

            Library:  This space has a possible occupancy of 215.

The shelving is intended to be movable, used to define the space for a more intimate feeling, or moved against the walls for larger receptions.

Possible uses are:

-          Receptions

-          Small Concerts and Musical Recitals

-          Literature Readings and Lectures

-          Book Club Meetings

-          Symposiums

-          Seminars