Inside Scoop

The final project in Dawn Finley’s 501 studio was a novel library concept; a mediatheque for Houston Independent School District, with a strong focus on audio-visual materials. Unique program elements included screening rooms and recording studios. Given the specific light and sound requirements of this specialized program, some parts of the building needed to be carefully sequestered. Balancing this need with the building’s role as a public amenity was the primary goal of my intervention. I accomplished this by scooping into the building with two large public entrance voids. These scoops were meant to lure visitors into the space. From these public spaces, strategically placed portholes allow visitors to catch glimpses of specialized program spaces, introducing them to everything else the library has to offer.