Project Description

With UTC’s student’s ever-changing learning habits and technological needs, the university outgrew the original library which opened in 1974. The intent of the new library was to “serve as a sanctuary of study” and provide flexible workspaces to accommodate and encourage collaboration in learning. The library serves as an anchor of one corner of the of the new “Chamberlain Quad” – an open space development paying homage to the original football complex, anchoring the past while looking toward the future. The Library design team felt it critical to respect environmental obligations for future generations attending UTC and committed to creating a healthy and sustainable atmosphere by achieving the first LEED Certified facility on UTC’s campus.

Rain water and HVAC condensate water are stored for irrigation of the landscape and vegetative roof over the coffee shop. The months when you need irrigation are the same months when you produce the most condensate air conditioning water. The brick, metal panels and curtainwall where chosen to match the existing campus material pallet, but with contemporary detailing to project the image of a building grounded in its history while looking toward the future. The main reading room, located on the 5th floor, provides a more formal space for learning and assemblies. The curtainwall provides panoramic views of UTC’s campus, downtown Chattanooga, and the mountains beyond.