CULTURAL & RELIGIOUS
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.
New Lots Library
Brooklyn, NY
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
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.
SPECIAL COMPLEXITIES
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.
PROJECT TEAM
Architect - MASS Design Group and Marble Fairbanks Architects
CM - Gilbane Building Company
Owner - Brooklyn Public Library
Renderings - MASS Design Group and Marble Fairbanks Architects
RECOGNITION
Modern Building Honoring African Burial Ground to Transform New Lots Library
Brownstoner, December 19, 2024
MASS Design Group and Marble Fairbanks Architects to redesign library in Brooklyn on site of African American burial ground
Architect’s Newspaper, December 13, 2024