Greater Grand Crossing and West Humboldt Chicago Public Library
BauerLatoza Studio is providing site and landscape architectural services for two new prototype libraries for the Chicago Public Library and the Public Building Commission of Chicago. West Humboldt Branch Library is the prototype for 16,000 square foot facilities and Greater Grand Crossing Branch Library is the prototype for 8,000 square foot facilities. Both projects include:
- Landscape design using native and adapted plants in a modern, low maintenance, garden-like setting
- Tree shaded outdoor reading area incorporating permeable pavers
- Bio-swale design to cleanse and temporarily store storm water runoff from the adjacent parking area
- Interpretive signage for bio-swale feature
- Green roof design utilizing a continuous extensive system for maximum storm water storage and favorable growing conditions
- Drip irrigation design controlled by rain sensor for 50% reduction in irrigation water use
- Site furnishings manufactured from recycled materials
- Sustainable sites and water efficiency review for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) compliance
Fully utilizing the potential of the design team LEED charrette, BauerLatoza Studio advocated for sustainable site and landscape design elements which are being incorporated into these prototype libraries. Their prominent location on major streets will provide positive sustainable design examples for their neighborhoods and the entire region.
- Client: Public Building Commission of Chicago
- Project Address: 1000 E. 73rd Street & 733 N. Kedzie, Chicago, Illinois
- Project Size: 0.5 acres & 0.9 acres
- Construction Cost: $4.4 million & $6.4 million (total construction)
- Services Provided: Site Design, Bioswale Design, Plant Selection, Green Roof, LEED Certification, Construction Documents, Construction Administration
- LEED Certification: Goal of Silver