Chinatown Library

Date: 12.2022

ARCH2130 Ang Li

This Boston Public Library is located in just beyond the center of Chinatown and lies between Kneeland Street and Harvard Street.

The library addresses lack of accessible public space for local residents and takes on a pinwheel plan form throughout the entire structure. On the ground floor, the center of the library serves as a courtyard space. On the remaining levels, the perimeter of the facades facing the center of the courtyard act as circulation for people, light, and air.

Out of the three streets bordering the site, I concluded that Hudson Street and Tyler Street had the most circulation, while Harvard Street remained relatively low in circulation.

From the final library design, I envisioned possible circulation paths different people would take based on the different streets in which they could enter the library space.

BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

BOSTON PUBLIC

BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY CHINATOWN BRANCH

CHINATOWN BRANCH

The plans for each level differ in exterior shape and form, however the center shape remains consistent to emphasize the center courtyard theme throughout the design.

Bigger programs in the library lie closer to the area furthest from the center, while more individualized program surround the perimeter of the center facades.