Holst Completes Mass-Timber East County Library in Oregon
Holst finalized the Adjaye-designed library, utilizing mass-timber to create a forest-inspired civic space.
1Project Transition and Completion
Holst successfully completed the East County Library in Gresham, Oregon, after taking over the project from Adjaye Associates. The transition occurred following public misconduct allegations against David Adjaye, leading the county to release his firm. Holst, previously the architect of record, maintained the original building bones while finalizing the construction process.
2Design Vision and Accessibility
The studio prioritized a concept of awe and accessibility, aiming for a civic moment within the public realm. Dual entry programs connect the building to local rail and bus lines, ensuring seamless public access. The design incorporates ramps and a plaza, effectively integrating the library into the surrounding community infrastructure and transit network.
3Structural Timber and Concrete
The structure utilizes a hybrid system of mass timber, concrete, and steel cores. Glulam columns define the entryway, while the facade features scalloped concrete bands and vertical glass elements. A semi-circular protrusion marks the amphitheater, utilizing grey-toned concrete paneling to distinguish the space from the primary timber and glass building envelope.
4Optimizing Timber for Aesthetics
Holst collaborated with local supplier TimberLab to optimize timber usage throughout the library. Notches in the columns and beams provide a residential, cabin-like aesthetic while serving a functional purpose. These notches cleverly conceal mechanical systems and lighting, maintaining a clean ceiling plane that enhances the monumental scale of the interior timber structure.
5Interior Spatial Configuration
The interior features a central double-height atrium, described by principal Brittany Shreiner as a forest clearing. A wood-slatted spiral staircase serves as the focal point, with book storage surrounding this core. Breakout rooms and classrooms are positioned along the perimeter, ensuring that mass-timber elements remain visible throughout the library's various functional zones.
6Lighting and Environmental Integration
Sawtooth lightwells on the roof introduce diffuse natural light into the central atrium space. Green carpeting is used intentionally to reinforce the forest metaphor established by the timber columns. Additionally, a rooftop patio offers views of the surrounding mountains, providing an outdoor connection for visitors within the library's elevated, accessible design.
7Modifications to Original Plans
While preserving the core design, Holst implemented specific changes to the original Adjaye plans. The team removed planned overhanging screens at the entries and a tower that extended above the roof plane. These adjustments were made to streamline the construction while respecting the county's desire to avoid a total project redesign.
8Broader Industry Context
This project reflects a wider trend of firms completing high-profile works following the departure of lead architects due to controversy. Similar to the Princeton Art Museum, which was finished by Cooper Robertson, the East County Library demonstrates how executive architects can successfully navigate complex transitions to deliver significant public infrastructure projects on schedule.