Oceanside Library Re-Opens With ‘Cutting Edge’ Design by domusstudio architecture

March 11, 2011 - PRLog -- Hundreds gathered recently for a grand re-opening of the Oceanside Public Library, where a new interior by domusstudio architecture showcases an airy, light-filled atrium and new consumer-friendly retail-oriented theme, all within strict budget constraints.

“This is the cutting edge of library design and it was accomplished within an incredible budget,” said Deborah Polich, library director, during the grand opening celebration March 2. “David Pfeifer and the team at domusstudio architecture embraced our vision, understood our budget constraints and respected the original work of architect Charles Moore from 20 years ago. They retained the light and added a freshness and originality that I think is amazing.”

Designed by San Diego’s domusstudio architecture, founded in 1986 as Dominy + Associates Architects, the interior remodel rejuvenates the two-story, 30,000-square-foot Oceanside Public Library with:

•  new flooring and finishes;
•  improved lighting;
•  sustainable repurposing of existing library furnishings and used bookstore shelving.

Other than enlarging the main entrance, no exterior modifications are included in the $658,000 redesign.

The interior renovations put the library on the cutting edge of library design with a new marketplace service model, changing the way public libraries are organized and operate.

“We have a new service philosophy to encourage browsing,” Polich said, adding that library staff also is training to put more focus on people.

“Like the Gap and other retail stores, the library now showcases rotating displays of relevant and entertaining materials,” said David Pfeifer, AIA, principal at domusstudio architecture. “This new trend toward marketplace browsing manifests itself architecturally in tiered displays, table top exhibits and wall-mounted arrangements that showcase a variety of library curriculum. The library now has more hands-on types of displays, and more materials are displayed facing out instead of shelved on stacks.”

Additional highlights of the redesign that are integral to the marketplace theme include:

•  new coffee corner, study rooms, and lounge areas for adults, teens and tweens, providing informal seating clusters that encourage browsing, relaxing and reading;

• several new service technology stations to assist customers in helping themselves to online research or checking out materials;

•  fresh new retail approach in the library’s arrival area, with interesting displays and eye-catching collections;

•  a fun new children’s room with bookshelves that are shorter and angled so that library staff is better able to interact with customers.

Part of the Oceanside Civic Center designed in 1985 by Charles Moore, the library’s architecture is characterized by a two-story atrium, well-lit from above by a row of large clerestory windows. The redesign by domusstudio architecture maintains the noted American architect’s vision, while breathing new life into the structure with the integration of a marketplace theme.

Previously working with the County of San Diego to implement the new marketplace concept at four branch libraries, domusstudio architecture’s design brings the Oceanside Library up-to-date with very little structural work.

“Several existing libraries are retrofitting to this model,” Pfeifer said. “It’s amazing how much of this new service model can be accomplished within existing libraries designed under traditional thinking. You don’t need to tear down and start over; you can do an adaptive reuse.”

Founded in 1986 as Dominy + Associates Architects, domusstudio architecture is an award-winning architectural design firm specializing in religious facilities, fire stations, educational buildings, senior housing and custom residential projects through architecture, interiors, planning and service.  For more information about its projects and services, call 619-692-9393 or visit http://www.domusstudio.com.

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