Mission Branch Library in Santa Clara, Contemporary Santa Clara Public Building, Photos
Mission Branch Library in Santa Clara, California
New Santa Clara Building in California: Property in Western USA – design by Noll & Tam Architects
8 Jul 2019
Mission Branch Library
Design: Noll & Tam Architects
Location: Santa Clara, CA, USA

Surrounded by City Park and located close to downtown Santa Clara and a number of schools, the Mission Branch Library has been an essential resource to the community since it opened in 1954. Built as the first stand-alone library in the city, the building had received only minor updates since first open-ing, and was in desperate need of a refresh to enhance comfort, create a more welcoming atmosphere, and bring it into the 21st century.
Working closely with library stakeholders and a tight budget, the team identified and prioritized aes-thetic and functional areas for improvement, and developed a strategy as to how best to breathe new life into the aging facility. The final 8,400-square-foot design is bright and airy, featuring a palette of light wood, with accents of bright greens, oranges, and blues.

High, wood slatted ceilings and large windows help to visually connect the interiors to the surrounding park setting, while plentiful seating options invite patrons to make themselves at home. Updates were aimed at not only improving the library?s appearance, through fresh paint and new finishes, but at the functionality of the li...