Recently, the Greenpoint, Brooklyn branch of the Brooklyn Public Library underwent a major renovation and expansion to almost double square footage. A major addition to this project was the Greenpoint Library and Environmental Education Center. Recognition awards include the New York City Public Design Commission “Design Excellence Award” and AIA Brooklyn + Queens Design “Award of Merit” as well as exceeding LEED Gold Certification standards.
The project is the result of a community collaboration with the Brooklyn Public Library and project architect Marble Fairbanks. They chose Concreteworks East’s to fabricate custom GFRC panels to cover the walls at the ground level. Molds for the panels were created from sandblasted cedar wood, thus enhancing the natural grain and knotting features. Our pre-cast panels provide the perfect backdrop for the library’s first-floor garden. Notice how the natural elements of the panels come alive during the twilight and evening hours with uplighting. During daylight hours the varying gray shades of the natural concrete create added depth and color, providing a transformative setting at the entryway for the library’s visitors.
