In this session of our Digital Design Series, Bora Architecture & Interiors will present on their OAA award winning project - Holgate Library.
The Butterfly Effect: Reimagining Civic Space Through the Holgate Library
1 AIA LU|HSW
Presented by Bora Architecture & Interiors
Emily Wilson, AIA, Architect
Thuy Le, AIA, Architect
Jeanie Lai, AIA, IIDA, NOMA, Principal
This presentation explores Multnomah County Library’s Holgate Library in Portland, Oregon, as a model for how contemporary libraries can support health, safety, and community resilience through design. At a time when truly public gathering spaces are increasingly rare, libraries serve as vital civic anchors that foster social connection, cultural expression, and a sense of belonging.
Using Holgate Library as a case study, this session examines how a community-centered design process can build ownership through inclusive engagement, how spatial planning strategies can inform a gradient of welcoming community spaces, and how integrating public art with architecture can support cultural placemaking. It will also look at the implementation of mass timber in libraries as an opportunity for sustainable and low-carbon construction.
Learning Objectives:
Identify community engagement methods that build trust and inform inclusive design outcomes.
Describe future-minded spatial planning strategies that create a gradient of community spaces to support health, comfort, and belonging.
Apply strategies for integrating public art and architecture to support community identity and placemaking.
Explain key considerations for implementing biophilic design in civic buildings
Thank you to our Digital Design Series Sponsor:
