Weldon Library Revitalization: New Form at Brutalist Architecture

Focusing on the new vision at the Weldon Library function, Perkins & Will designing the revitalization of Western University's library with a behavioral approach and see design potential in the long term.

Weldon Library Revitalization by Perkins&WIll. (cr: Scott Norsworthy)

Weldon Library was Western University's central library, designed by John Andrews in 1967. Brutalist architecture as a concept mirrors an outdated academic library vision with a repository collection, limited study space, and minimum natural sunlight and natural air circulation in the building. This environment did not support today's modern study system.

Weldon Library Revitalization by Perkins&WIll. (cr: Scott Norsworthy)

Emphasizing users' well-being, the main vision for the Weldon Library renovation is to improve the function of the space by making the space lighter, brighter, having good air circulation, and natural lighting, as a place for varied activities, and supporting student activities, including learning, research, exploration, and discoveries from across different scientific disciplines.

Weldon Library after revitalization giving lighter and brighter space. (cr: www.news.westernu.ca)

Providing a dynamic user flow through design by reconnecting the large hall, previously covered by a mezzanine, and adding spaces and facilities that support learning, socializing, and community discussion. The cellular area that previously limited natural light to certain areas has been replaced with an open-plan study space, allowing larger access to natural light through glazed partitions. Improvements to the quality of the space are also carried out in the acoustic aspect, which provides discussion space without fear of disturbing other activities in the library. The addition of green elements with plants and variations in furniture selection also muted the brutalist concept of the building so that it displays a more comfortable ambiance.

Weldon Library community room. (cr: www.news.westernu.ca)

Equity, diversity, and inclusion shaped this project with a detailed design process, with each phase done by hearings with students, faculty, library staff, and accessibility advocates, consulting with more than 250 stakeholders to ensure that the library's changes would be welcomed by the entire Western community University.

Weldon Library revitalization by Perkins&WIll. (cr: Scott Norsworthy)

The revitalization of the Weldon Library eliminates the potential for millions of tons of carbon emissions by renovating and rearranging the space layout and not demolishing and rebuilding the original building. Instead, this design strategically positions Weldon Library for continued sustainability service for the next 50 years with strategies: deep energy retrofits that replace or upgrade HVAC systems, improving air quality and thermal comfort while reducing energy use by >30%, and high-efficiency plumbing which reduces water use by >40%. The new service spine at the core of the building integrates mechanical, electrical, and IT services, considering future renovation, development, and long-term adaptation.

Weldon Library section sketch. (cr: Perkins&Will)

Without eradicating the brutalist characteristics of the original building, Perkins&Will succeeded in creating a new appearance and ambiance for the Weldon Library with functions that support 21st century learning with a long-term perspective that considers the maintenance of the building for the next 50 years.