Portland Public Library

The significant overhaul of this prominent building will serve the public for years.

Details.

Ledgewood served as construction manager for this 43,400-s.f. addition and renovation project at the Portland Public Library’s main branch on Monument Square. The project included extensive renovation to the Main and Lower levels, infrastructure upgrades, an expansion of the Rines Auditorium, a new café and reading area, and complete exterior redesign.

The Library now boasts double-height glass panels visually connecting the Brutalist structure to Monument Square, allowing extensive natural light to fill the building. A solar chimney draws heat from the sun up and into the HVAC system, reducing energy costs.

Ledgewood worked closely with library staff to coordinate construction activities throughout, ensuring minimal disruption to library operations, which were ongoing in a lesser capacity on the library’s lower level.

  • Owner: City of Portland
  • Architect: Scott Simons Architects
  • Location: Portland, Maine
  • Market Segment: Community