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Our WorkSilverman Library

Silverman Library by Architectural Resources

Design Brief

Project Location: Buffalo, NY

The newly renovated Silverman Library is a highly visible 24/7 student learning commons which reflects the diverse ways in which students learn, study and interact with information in the 21st century. Its design incorporates informal and formal learning spaces in “neighborhoods” to break down the expansive floor plate while maintaining an open and connected environment. These neighborhoods, based on levels of activity, including social, active, and quiet study, are clearly defined by both color and texture.

Students may choose to spend time in a variety of amenities including the “Cybrary” of 100 computers, individual spaces for over 900 people, “One Button Studios” for media creation, 17 group study rooms, classroom/event spaces, support space clusters, bright banquettes, and lounge areas under very generous light wells. The Grand Reading Room (220 seats), evokes a more traditional library aesthetic, providing students with an inspiring place for contemplative quiet study.

This project was completed in collaboration with MAP Architecture.

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Design Brief

The Heart of the Campus is the University’s 2020 initiative to enhance student experience by creating a vibrant learning landscape. Capen Hall is the focal point of the Heart of the Campus and houses a wide range of student services as well as the Library, University archives, and offices of the President and Provost. This project has transformed the entire third floor of Capen Hall (56,000 sqft) from an underutilized collections and study area into an open, light-filled, technology-enriched library space which reflects the diverse ways in which students learn, study and interact with information in the 21st century.  

The newly renovated Silverman Library is a highly visible 24/7 student learning commons. Its design incorporates informal and formal learning spaces in “neighborhoods” to break down the expansive floor plate while maintaining an open and connected environment. These neighborhoods, based on levels of activity, including social, active, and quiet study, are clearly defined by both color and texture.

Students may choose to spend time in a variety of amenities including the “Cybrary” of 100 computers, individual spaces for over 900 people, “One Button Studios” for media creation, 17 group study rooms, classroom/event spaces, support space clusters, bright banquettes, and lounge areas under very generous light wells. The Grand Reading Room (220 seats), evokes a more traditional library aesthetic, and provides students with an inspiring place for contemplative quiet study.

This project was completed in collaboration with MAP Architecture.

Watch Video

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