Norwell Public Library

Designers of the Norwell Public Library used wood to convey a familiarity and warmth that puts visitors at ease, creating a comfortable, tranquil environment. Clean, simple lines form a single-story building with three wings surrounding a central courtyard garden. Changing scale from the intimate entrance, porch and modest-height lobby to the generous reading rooms creates an intentional delayed enjoyment of surrounding forest views. The U-shaped structure is framed with a combination of mass timber—exposed in all major public spaces—and light wood framing. Influenced by AIA’s Framework for Design Excellence, the library’s design features an exceptional blend of functionality, beauty and sustainability. The team was inspired by the need to create thoughtful architectural responses that facilitate social interaction, establish a sense of community, and contribute to the identity of place.