feasibility study

designLAB recently completed a program study and conceptual design for the future of the NPL Main Branch. The scope of investigations spans from renovation and addition options, to a full replacement of the library with a brand new building on an adjacent site. Built in 1970, the Nashua Public Library is a 57,000-square-foot building located along the banks of the Nashua River in downtown Nashua, NH. The building was constructed in a mid-century style, made of a cast-in-place exposed concrete frame with brick infills. At the time of its construction, the Nashua River was one of the most polluted rivers in the United States. As a result, the building ‘turned its back’ to the riverfront. While library services and resources, building and energy codes, and even the Nashua River have evolved over the past 50 years, the building has not. The study explores opportunities for expanding youth services, introducing more community meeting spaces (small and large), and improving accessibility. Furthermore, each solution unlocks better connections to the future riverwalk and downtown Nashua.

As part of the facility assessment for the Nashua Public Library, designLAB led a thorough analysis of the existing 1971 building. The assessment included the exterior envelope, building code, life safety and accessibility conditions and all building systems (MEPFP/Structural). Deficiencies were identified with recommended solutions and were presented to City stakeholders. A comprehensive final report was published as the final deliverable.