Wood Library Renovation & Addition

The success of Wood Library’s community outreach and services initiated a season of growth that brought the opportunity for a major expansion. A planning process begun in 2005 established goals for the library to meet the needs of the Canandaigua community. These goals included creating larger, distinctive spaces for the children’s and young adults’ libraries and the development of meeting spaces and classrooms for community uses, such as computer classes for seniors.

Phase one of the project was completed in 2011 and provided the complete renovation of the existing, historically significant Greek-revivial style building. Original building details such as brick walls and timber ceiling beams complimented newer features such as an ADA-compliant elevator and community kitchenette. Architectural services for this phase included the design of interior and exterior modifications, as well as utility upgrades.

Phase two was a historically appropriate addition of 5,000 sf. The addition added a new main entry, circulation desk, flexible seating and collection display areas, as well as a meeting room to accomodate up to 100 individuals.

As a nationally-registered historic building, this project received NY State Office of Historic Preservation approval and was recognized as a 2010 AIA awarded design.

Big Idea

Expand Wood Library with modern, community-focused spaces while honoring and preserving its historic character