BSSW Architects, Inc., a full-service architectural firm founded in 1980, released final renderings for the new Bonita Springs Public Library at a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, March 8.
The two-story library will feature a stucco and stone veneer, towering windows with Bahama shutters, a pergola-covered second-floor balcony and clean exterior lines, with tropical landscaping to accentuate the property. The design for the 31,000-square-foot facility offers reading balconies, a covered entry, private meeting rooms, more than 50 public-access computers and dedicated areas for adults, teens and children.
Representatives from BSSW, Lee County and Bonita Springs joined other dignitaries at Thursday afternoon’s groundbreaking ceremony at the future location on Felts Avenue in Bonita Springs, a block off Old 41 Road. Completion is expected in mid-2019.
“This design makes a bold architectural statement for downtown Bonita Springs, blending traditional Old Florida elements with contemporary design principles to create a beautifully blended, functional facility,” said Daniel Summers, BSSW’s president and principal architect. “As Bonita Springs continues its downtown revitalization initiatives, we’re pleased to design a new facility in the heart of Old Bonita that ultimately will become a favorite gathering spot for residents of all ages.”
BSSW created the library’s floorplan after reviewing hundreds of resident responses collected in a community engagement survey. Respondents said they wanted ample meeting space for arts and crafts classes, presentations, children’s activities and events. Other desires included flexible spaces, semi-private lounges, reading “caves” for youth, a story time area and study rooms.
The current 12,000-square-foot library on Pine Avenue was built in 1976 and renovated during the 1990s. It was closed for three months following Hurricane Irma due to water damage.
“Libraries of the past were designed primarily to house row upon row of books and magazines,” said Kevin Williams, principal architect and vice president at BSSW. “The new library will still house those materials, of course, but Bonita Springs residents made it clear they also wanted public-access computers, multi-purpose rooms and casual reading areas.”
BSSW also created architectural designs for the 25,000-square-foot North Fort Myers Public Library being built on U.S. 41, a project that broke ground in late November. Other Lee County libraries designed by BSSW include the Fort Myers Regional Library in downtown Fort Myers, East County Regional Library in Lehigh Acres, Northwest Regional Library in Cape Coral and Lakes Regional Library in south Fort Myers. BSSW’s Collier County library designs include the Marco Island Library and County Library Headquarters in Naples, as well as the Golden Gate Library expansion.
About BSSW Architects
BSSW Architects, Inc. is a full-service architectural firm founded in 1980 with the same principles that guide the business today: dedication to serving the best interest of clients and the community. The Fort Myers, Florida-based company has served as the lead architect on more than 120 major projects across Southwest Florida, including schools, government facilities, public libraries, hotels, resorts and private communities. BSSW Architects employs a complete team of architects, planners, interior designers and support staff to bring projects from the concept stage through completion. For more information, visit BSSWarchitects.com or call 239-278-3838.
