City of Ottawa – Hazeldean Library

Our team was retained to Study and Analyze the Space Requirement and provide complete Interior Design Services related to the renovation of 830 m2 of library space, including public areas, staff areas, washrooms and a RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) room .

A Design Challenge was the triangular base building envelop. Designed in the 1970s, the triangular footprint created a dynamic space but also brought a great challenge for the renovation. The library had limited space for the required additional book collection and increased requirement for collaboration areas.

The final design changed the direction of the existing shelving layout and inserted a series of “island” areas for each group (Adult, teen, children, etc.) These collaboration areas are relatively open while still separated from each other in order to minimize disruptions. With a series of oval shaped indoor canopies designed to identify these areas, the triangular footprint is softened. This design principle was continued further with the addition of more curves in elements such as the millwork, carpet inserts, etc. A “lounge” area with WI-FI connection was created beside the entrance to update the old library to reflect the needs of current users.

Although the Client did not submit for LEED certification, Hay Design incorporated aspects of sustainable design into our deliverables including: selecting materials, furniture and fabrics that had a recycle content, regional materials, rapidly renewable, certified wood, and low-emitting materials. LED lighting are specified to further booster the energy saving.