The Naslund Study Lounge at the Armacost Library offers students a comfortable “home away from home.” The design of this 8,700 SF entry addition features the ‘Grand Living Room’ gathering space as the formal entrance to the newly renovated campus library. It was important to maintain the library’s circulation and operations while giving the students a much-needed place to study, collaborate, and hang out. The look and feel of the ‘Grand Living Room’ had to reflect the University’s classic, timeless aesthetic while being modern, youthful and relevant to the students.

Library users are welcomed with custom-designed furniture, lamps and ottomans that can be quickly rearranged, creating a highly flexible gathering space. The grand staircase leading into the space includes double-height steps lined with floor pillows on either side of the center circulation, providing more informal lounge and study space. The study lounge includes computer labs, classrooms, group study rooms and a café. Open 24 hours a day, this library entry way has become a destination unto itself—a memorable space and image for the University.