Twenty years ago, Octavia Fellin Public Library outgrew its 15,000 square foot main facility and reached what was meant to be a temporary solution: relocating children’s services to a repurposed bank. Now seeking to reunite and expand operations, library leadership wants to build a 65,000 square foot structure that would serve as a multi-use regional resource and welcome diverse communities with inviting gathering spaces and a fluid, indoor-outdoor experience.

When we design public spaces, we should be continually asking ourselves how to create some of the bespoke feeling of a curated home, rather than using the more typical "matching" scheme that offices and libraries of the past have used.

Following an extensive renovation and restoration project, the landmarked structure is today the site of a vibrant arts and cultural center that acts as a new anchor for the arts and community in Auburn. The center features several gallery spaces for diverse exhibits as well as production spaces for local artists and offers a multitude of arts and cultural education, programming, and events. It is also a rental venue.

The design team’s refreshing take on agrarian vernacular also delivers on utility, practicality, and cost. “We turned to a light-frame wood and steel structure as both an expression of the region’s historic architecture and for its affordability, sustainability, and ease to construct with local crafts persons.”

Design firms can learn from JA’s approach and take action to better support emerging professionals, particularly women architects. Two-thirds of our staff are female and the percentage of women in leadership at JA is also unusually high: 73% of our firm leadership and two-thirds of our ownership group are women. According to a 2017 statistic from The American Institute of Architects, the national average for women in architectural leadership roles beyond project manager is just 17%.