New Lots Library

Brooklyn, NY

COMMUNITY

Brooklyn Public Library has engaged Envoie Projects for comprehensive project management to re-envision the New Lots branch library in East New York. The existing 2-story library will be demolished and a new 3-story library will be built. The library will consist of a new public plaza, auditorium, adult learning center and large children and adult reading areas. This library has various unique design features including a mass timber structure. The project will have a focus on sustainability with a LEED certification, solar panels, plaza landscaping and a sun shading veiled façade. This branch, located on the site of an African burial ground, is intended to be a palaver for East New York, creating opportunities for restorative justice and providing a space for the community to dialogue, educate, and seek joy. One of the major challenges of this project is building a new structure and landscaped plaza without disturbing the African burial ground below.

    • Ensure that the project is delivered in accordance with the City pass-thru grant requirements.

    • Develop and maintain a detailed budget, cost reporting system, and funding management and assist BPL with making design decisions with respect to programmatic, operational and cost considerations.

    • Managing project schedule throughout the design, pre-construction & construction process.

    • Coordinating the procurement, delivery and installation of BPL’s furniture, fixtures and equipment including custom art interventions.

    • Location on an historic African burial ground, requiring oversight of an archaeological consultant during foundation work.

    • Design assist process required for several unique aspects of the project, including mass timber, solar panels, and façade.

    • Advanced MEP coordination process in design and construction for coordination with mass timber elements.

    • Value engineering throughout the design phase to align the construction costs with BPL’s budget.

    • Owner - Brooklyn Public Library

    • Architect - MASS Design Group and Marble Fairbanks Architects

    • Landscape Architect - Elizabeth Kennedy Landscape Architect

    • Builder - Gilbane Building Company

    • Renderings - MASS Design Group and Marble Fairbanks Architects

“Being able to deliver change through the reformation of New Lots Library is a clear demonstration of change to honestly reflect history and celebrate the people and community the library serves."

Jonathan Evans
Principal, MASS Design

New Lots Library (Video)

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