Toronto-based Levitt Goodman Architects has recently completed an inspiring library project in Bridgenorth.
The library, which has been recognised with an Ontario Woodworks award, features an exposed timber truss ceiling, I-joists, a timber deck and timber stud walls.
The 8,500ft² building was designed like a great lodge, taking its architectural influences from nearby trees and landscape.
“By constructing this civic building almost entirely from wood products we were able to set a tone that supported this shared vision,” said the architects.
“As a firm we have always wanted to explore the potential expressive qualities of typical residential wood frame/truss construction. In this case, the library’s budget was tight so more finished exposed wood solutions such as glulam construction were not an option.
“By exposing residential wood truss, I-joist and timber stud construction, not only did we achieve an expressive structure at a low cost, but we also saved on the drywall ceiling and wall coverings that normally hide such utilitarian structures.”
“Using wood in this way, the township now has a library whose exposed walls have the verticality of trees. In a subtle way, this connects the book back to its source; the tree.”
