The Resort Municipality of Whistler sought to replace the facility with a sustainable, dynamic civic focal point that is able to support library programming and growth. The new library complements Whistler’s commitment to sustainability, while creating an almost seamless experience between indoors and outdoors. The L-shaped facility offers a number of unique features, including a gently sloping roofline and windows that benefit from available sunlight in the winter and minimize the effects of the sun in the summer. Taking advantage of its site, situated close to the Whistler Village, the entrance is designed to emphasize pedestrian connections while its location leaves room for other potential buildings. The library’s large windows line the north side of the building, allowing those inside to enjoy both the greenspace and mountain views.
A green roof covers 80% of the library, serving as drainage for the main roof. A portion of the building’s heat is supplied by passive geothermal heating, a raised access floor sits above 30 stalls of underground parking that will allow greater flexibility to re-configure the space. The library contains facilities for end-of-trip bicycle and cross-country ski commutes, including adjacent storage for bicycles. Accessed by FOB keys provided by the City, female and male shower and change rooms contain lockers to safely store commuting gear. The library is LEED® Gold certified.
