Richview District Library

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Client: Toronto Public Library

Richview Library is the busiest and largest library in the west end of the City of Toronto. Originally built in 1964, the library required complete revitalization to meet the current design standards and to transform it into an inclusive community space. The comprehensive retrofit involved complete interior renovations to the second and basement level, and the complex accessibility upgrades to the main building entrance.

The interior redesign of the second and the lower-level provide collaborative learning spaces through the inclusion of an open layout with flexible and expandable programming. The space supports community gatherings and events of all group sizes permeated by natural light. The library exterior upgrades involved a new exterior entry stair and a connected fully accessible ramp. The new main entrance is designed to enhance the pedestrian experience by integrating streetscape and greening elements.