Architecture studio Snøhetta has unveiled the Far Rockaway Library in New York, a striking structure enveloped in fritted, orange ombre glass adorned with delicate white script by Brooklyn artist José Parlá. Nestled in the Far Rockaway neighborhood of Queens, this new library not only replaces a previous facility on the site but also expands its footprint, boasting an impressive 18,000 square feet (1,672 square meters). The building’s unique triangular shape enhances its presence, with a facade that elegantly stretches along the corner lot, featuring rectangular cutouts at the back corners and a pyramid-like slice above the entrance.
Inside, the library is thoughtfully designed to cater to various community needs. The first level houses a welcoming lobby, an information desk, a dedicated teen area, and administrative offices. Meanwhile, the second floor is reserved for adults and children, complete with a quiet room for reflection and study. The vibrant orange exterior of the library draws inspiration from the breathtaking sunsets that grace the nearby coastline, while José Parlá’s mural, known as Style Writing, pays homage to the rich writing culture of New York City.
The studio explains that both Parlá’s artwork and the library’s name are deeply rooted in the city’s artistic heritage, particularly the movement that emerged in the sixties and early seventies when young artists began transforming the urban landscape with their creative expressions. The mural captures the essence of the words and languages that fill New York’s bustling streets, reimagined into a “primarily indecipherable code” that invites curiosity and engagement.
The library’s design features a semi-translucent facade that bathes the interior in natural light, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Snøhetta aimed for a “simple” architectural form to provide a serene contrast to the visual chaos of the surrounding retail environment. The studio emphasizes that this simplicity is intentional, offering a calming presence amidst the vibrant energy of the neighborhood.
The design reimagines the classic New York City public library model, transforming it from a mere book repository into a vibrant hub for collaboration and social interaction. This innovative space includes a dedicated teen room and private meeting areas, fostering a sense of community among its diverse users.
At the heart of the library lies a striking inverted pyramidal atrium, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also invites natural light to flood the ground floor, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The concrete staircase, elegantly positioned along one side, is flanked by slightly tilted concrete columns that rise dramatically, adding to the architectural intrigue of the space.
Surrounding the atrium, clusters of chairs, tables, and bookcases create inviting nooks for reading and collaboration, both on the ground level and the mezzanine. The interior is further enhanced by a dichroic glass railing that encircles the staircase, along with a series of vibrant orange metal fins that cascade down from the skylight, infusing the space with color and energy.
A mural by Mexican artist Pablo Helguera, inspired by the late Far Rockaway resident and theoretical physicist Richard Feynman, adorns a wall on the second level, adding a layer of cultural significance. The library aspires to be a vital community hub, especially in light of its crucial role following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy in 2012. “The new building seeks to increase the delivery of much-needed neighborhood services and, along with community revitalization efforts, was designed to serve as a catalyst to unify Far Rockaway and bring people together,” the studio explained.