As part of JA’s full-service design of the Winthrop Library, our Interior Design studio completed a full interiors scope for this new library, including material choices, furniture, fixtures, and equipment. While the exterior was inspired by the open-air agrarian buildings in the region, the interior was inspired by the more natural environment of the Methow Valley. Tones of green, blue, and rust accents punctuate the design, echoing the shifting seasonal landscape of the region. The exterior is clad in larch, while inside, natural maple is used throughout.

More than colors and materials, the designers brought other natural and wildlife elements into the space, creating an immersive experience for patrons of all ages. These elements include a sculptural “learning tree” made by a local artist that provides an interior niche, and “Flight of Birds,” an entry installation made out of books. A plywood clad “cube” in the children’s area has a custom, JA-designed animal motif, which contains activity desks and built-in seating cubbies to complete the whimsical design.

Additional amenities in this new public building are a meeting room, a break room for staff, a maker space, teen area with lounge chairs and comfort beanbags, media tables for study, a reading room with comfortable chairs and fireplace, and window seats throughout.

ASSOCIATE ARCHITECT
Prentiss Balance Wickline Architects
LOCATION Winthrop, WA
AREA 7,300 SF
COMPLETED Summer 2022
PHOTOGRAPHY Benjamin Drummond