The 80,000 square foot Eskind Biomedical Library at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center was designed to be a focal point of the Medical Center Campus and a link to the traditional Vanderbilt campus. We accomplished that goal by massing the building in response to the different scales of the two campuses, and by creating outdoor spaces to allow for a continuous flow of exterior space.
Davis Brody Bond, LLP
The 80,000 square foot Eskind Biomedical Library at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center was designed to be a focal point of the Medical Center Campus and a link to the traditional Vanderbilt campus. We accomplished that goal by massing the building in response to the different scales of the two campuses, and by creating outdoor spaces to allow for a continuous flow of exterior space. The print collection and staff functions are housed in a clearly organized, compact rectangular volume. Small group study rooms, core elements and other support spaces are located in a protective zone along the south wall. Reading and study areas are located on three levels in an open area filled with natural light. Enclosed by a north-facing 52-foot transparent glass wall, study carrels, tables and lounge seating areas have views to a landscaped campus. Bridges cross a four-story atrium that connect reading and stack areas, and skylights allow indirect light to penetrate the building. The linear atrium, detailed with cherry wood surrounds, opens the building making it easy to orient oneself in the multi-story structure. The fourth floor, also connected to the atrium, is the new Center for Informatics, used for research and training in the application of information technology to the health sciences. The design of the building reflects both the dynamic nature of the continued introduction of new technology and the inviting qualities of a traditional library. The project received the AIA/ American Library Association Award of Excellence Award in 1999, and the AIA New York State Excellence in Design Award in 1995.