Cloverdale Library

The renovation of the Cloverdale Library was undertaken to complement the extension to the Museum of Surrey and the redevelopment of the Veterans Square cultural campus in Cloverdale. In addition to responding to the changing site context, the project addressed a need for a new service delivery model and increased demand for community gathering space in this already highly used public building.

Ph5 led pre-design staff & stakeholder consultations which included a space planning workshop. We subsequently determined a new layout with improved workflows for users and staff. The design improved the function, look and comfort of the main floor library entry, expanded children’s area and provided a new space for teens. Custom millwork for the new integrated circulation and library services desk, public computer stations and main hall reflect their importance in library programming, and furniture was selected to create welcoming community gathering spaces. The design sought to enhance accessibility and followed guidelines and considerations for people living with dementia.

Exterior renovations included a new vestibule to make the main entrance more visible and welcoming from the street. New glazing on the east façade improved the connection to the cultural campus and provides natural light and view of Veterans Square from a new interior lounge space.

Through the preliminary design and costing phase, some key assumptions changed, and the scope of work was adjusted to meet newly recognized priorities. Discussions revealed the library could not use the second floor to its full potential, as the existing floor structure limited the number of book shelves and equipment that could be safely located there. ph5 looked at various options to include the second-floor structural upgrade, stay within the original budget, and meet project priorities.