Avery Reading Room

500 sf

New York, NY

Between the Avery Library and the school’s main entrance, and along the route to the 400 Level classrooms and offices, this mezzanine has long served as a favorite gathering spot in Avery Hall. GSAPP has since formalized the area with a seating zone and a display wall showcasing GSAPP publications. These books and pamphlets rest on a bent-steel framework set over sound-attenuating felt surfaces across the ceiling, walls, and floor. Opposite the books, a continuous band of school event banners scrolls up-to-date information. The felt enclosure defines a distinct spatial zone, while the seating invites lingering and engagement within this newly articulated environment.

PROJECT DESIGN

Douglas Gauthier

COLUMBIA CPM

Manuel Fontan, David Sasscer

COLUMBIA FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS

David Dewhurst, Janet Grapengater

GSAPP TEAM

Mark Taylor, Adam Bandler, Jesse Baxa, Riley MacPhee

LIGHTING CONSULTANTS

TDA / Tillotson Design Associates, Mark Kubicki

CONTRACTOR

King Rose Construction

PHOTOGRAPHY

Naho Kubota and Matthew Dolan