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Oldsmar Public Library
Oldsmar, FL
City of Oldsmar | 19,800 SF | 2008
Designed to characterize "Old Florida" architecture, the City of Oldsmar's public library embodies the city's rich history while contributing to the ongoing downtown redevelopment. The design exhibits a number of examples of Florida vernacular architecture and Mediterranean Revival styles, such as cast stone, painted stucco, and clay barrel tile roofing.
Exterior elements like the main entry façade and prominent octagon-shaped spaces on the corners of the building make the library appear larger than its actual size. Together these features create a proper civic presence within the city and visually anchor the building to its site.
Paddle fans and pendant lights adorn the interior, and the library's arched ceilings further reinforce the "Old Florida" design style. The center of the library is supported by stained wood beams that are naturally illuminated with daylight via clerestory windows, reminiscent of traditional grand reading rooms.
The REO Lounge, an octagonal teen room named after Ransom E. Olds, founder of Oldsmar and Oldsmobile, features sofas that are similar to the seats of a classic car.
