CCP Library and Learning Commons - Kelly Maiello Architects

Client

Community College of Philadelphia

Category

Education

The facilities occupy 64,000 square feet on the first and mezzanine floors of the historic Mint Building at 1700 Spring Garden Street. Constructed in 1901, the imposing five-story, 216,000-square-foot building was acquired by CCP in 1972, when the U.S. Mint moved to its current location on Independence Mall.

CCP’s 2017-2025 master plan identified opportunities to reconfigure library facilities to tap underutilized and vacant study and stack space. More importantly, the proposed transformation was intended to revolutionize how learning happens on campus by consolidating the services of the library, learning labs, and student academic computing into a single location that provides an engaging space for quiet study, collaboration, creativity, and the latest technology.

A modern civic library interior in Philadelphia, designed by an architect, with large arched windows, rows of desks and computers, people working and studying, and a high ceiling with wood paneling and linear lights.

The college’s redesigned Library and Learning Commons opened in fall 2021. The expanded space features readily available support services, multimedia rooms, multi-use spaces for study, a café and art exhibit area, the One Button Studio for digital video production, and a collaborative makerspace where students and faculty can gather to develop creative projects using a variety of tools and materials. CCP hailed it as “A student space—a welcoming, supportive, and safe place for studying, socializing, reading, and relaxing. It is truly the heart of the College.”

A modern, spacious lounge area in Philadelphia with people on blue sofas, working at tables, and socializing. The interior design features large windows, wood-paneled high ceilings, circular lights, and a striking central staircase. A modern educational learning commons with people working at desks and computers, glass-walled rooms, and exposed green ceiling pipes highlights smart interior design. One person walks by, while others are seated or walking in the background.

Architect of record HDR describes the reading room as a long double-height space, and a “modern interpretation of the main grand hall.” The existing mezzanine was incorporated to break down the scale of the space and define functional areas that support different study styles. Adjacent spaces were “layered” to incorporate smaller huddle and group study areas near the exterior courtyard, which was redesigned for student use.

A spacious, modern open-plan office with high ceilings, circular lights, wooden slats, and large windows showcases thoughtful interior design. Scattered desks and a glass-walled mezzanine add to the architect’s civic-inspired vision. Modern open office space in Philadelphia with people working at desks, collaborative tables, and lounge areas; features high arched windows, wooden slat ceiling, bright lighting, and thoughtful interior design that honors historic preservation.

KMA assisted with many aspects of the redesign, particularly historic building components, including renovations to the historic façade elements such as masonry window restoration and replacement. We were also responsible for code review, millwork design and documentation, and construction administration services.

Students sit and walk through a modern university building in Philadelphia, featuring thoughtful interior design with tall arched openings, large windows, and inviting seating. Some study quietly while others move through the dynamic space. A bright courtyard with white brick walls, circular windows, and benches reflects thoughtful architect design. Several people are talking and relaxing among green plants and small trees. The sky above is partly cloudy.