KMA worked with the Free Library of Philadelphia and Safdie Architects for well over a decade on the phased renovations of its Beaux-Arts central branch built in 1927.

Phase 1 initially called for a large-scale addition and renovations, but a funding hiatus led instead to development of a new five-year, eight-phase master plan for phased improvements to the historic building. Phase 2 cleaned and restored the lobby, developed the Skyline Room overlooking the Parkway, renovated the rare books gallery, and created a culinary literacy kitchen and green roof design.

Phase 3 removed the six-story private stacks area to free up 30,000 square feet. New floors were added, creating a two-story public space that houses the Robert and Eileen Kennedy Heim Center for Cultural and Civic Engagement, the 4,000-square-foot Marie and Joseph Field Teen Center, and the Business Resource and Innovation Center. The new spaces tied into the building’s layout with reconfigured walkways and new entrances created from the grand staircase, and a new parallel stair constructed behind the original staircase.

KMA was responsible for executing the designs, providing documentation and construction administration for the newly opened spaces.

Rendering Credits: Safdie Architects and the Free Library of Philadelphia

Section through Grand Stair Hall and Learning Commons

Main Lobby

Skyline Room