The existing library at Heritage Lakes Elementary School was not supporting the District’s 21st Century learning initiatives, and required improvements. ARCON was challenged to create an environment that provided spaces for creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
The new library, now referred to as an Innovation Center, is zoned into various spaces for collaboration, as well as individual learning. The Think Tank offers an area for larger groups to gather independently, complete with an operable partition that allows the space to adapt from a quiet learning zone to an open collaborative area. The Critical Thinking zone affords a tiered presentation space, outfitted with technology, that also doubles as the school’s professional development space for staff. The Collaboration Lounge is an informal gathering space outfitted with flexible soft-seating. The presentation area, complete with a retractable screen, provides a “stage” for performances and guest authors. Adjacent to a more formal classroom zone are a series of nooks built into the
bookshelves providing little “pockets” for students to read in.
The existing library provided minimal natural daylighting, creating a dark and uninviting environment. A 15 x 24’ skylight was installed over the collaboration zone, introducing a soft diffused light and creating a more welcoming environment.
The new Innovation Center offers 21st Century technology, such as interactive displays to support curriculum needs, flexible furniture for adaptability, the ability to accommodate multiple classes concurrently, a variety of spaces for group or individual learning, and a warm and inviting space for learning.
