Imagining the Modern Archive When searching to improve upon a city, one need not look further than the reimagination of its existing built landscape to recognize its inherent potential while simultaneously promising new and exciting opportunities. This project asked us to design an addition to the Newberry Library, a public research library and archive in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago. My proposal for the addition is made up of three main blocks: a rebuilding of the archive's stacks on its east side, a maker's space on its west side, and a large atrium connecting the two that becomes an an urban living room to promote social interaction within a gallery setting. My design seeks to engage the community with the building in a more welcoming, accessible way and to spark a sense of enthusiasm and excitement towards the possibilities of learning at the Newberry.
