Cambridge Public Library

Last month, on one of the really hot & humid days, I managed to remove myself from the air conditioning long enough to go on a Women in Design/BSA sponsored tour of the library.  I think was so hot my brain melted a little and so I forgot to post my photos.

The new wing is really pretty at night.

The new library combines the old historic library {from 1888}, which was restored and renovated, and a new modern wing.  I kind of love the old wing exterior with all it's secret details and little people all over.  The more you look the more you see.

For instance, if you squint while you look a little above and to the right of the arches, you will see this guy.  He's in charge of directing water from the gutter to the downspout.

The interior of the new wing was nice, but I think this part of the children's floor was my favorite.  The carpet with the carved wool rugs with rocks was a great piece.  If I was a kid, I don't think you would be able to drag me away from story hour.

{photos: #1 - archidose; #2 - EandJsFilmCrew; all others - jeanine}

Trove

I posted about Trove wallcoverings last year {well, I posted my ICFF photos from last year when I found them in January}, but I couldn't help taking a peak at what they were showing this year.

The new wallcoverings qualify for LEED points and are rated for commercial use as well as residential.  I can't wait to have a project where I can use these.

{photo: jeanine}

Boston Children's Museum

Growing up near Boston, I made many a trip to the Children's Museum and loved every minute of it. A couple of years ago I had heard they had renovated the building, achieving a LEED Gold rating, and added on about 10,000 sq. ft. to the museum but I had never really made it over to see it. So when I walked past last month to see the tall ships, camera in hand, I was able to see the exterior of the building, designed by Cambridge Seven Architects, close-up.



It's quite simple, well designed and cheerful on the outside. It was closed for the day and I didn't have a child in tow so I didn't see the inside but I think as long as they still have the giant telephone and the bubble table I would be happy. I think those were always my favorite spots.


On the outside it's fairly monochromatic but there are plenty of textures to keep the facade interesting. Also when the museum is open, this place can be a mad house so a calming, well designed interior with proper circulation would be a nice change.



Some day I'll have to take a child for a tour of the inside.

{photos: jeanine}