CHARLES LIBRARY
AT TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA
Awards:
IES Illumination Award of Merit 2020
LIT Awards Honorable Mention 2020
SEAoNY EiSE Award - Best New Building 2020
Architects | Snøhetta, Stantec
Description:
Charles Library, a 220,000 SF building, was conceived as both a research library and collaborative hub. It is defined by a granite-clad base and monumental wooden arches carved into the façade. The expansive glass entry leads into a three-story domed atrium lined in cedar, where a central oculus allows natural light to pour in.
Goal:
Commissioned by the lighting designer, the objective was to explore the hidden engineering of the building and capture the contrast between the cool split-faced granite and the warmth of the illuminated curved wood ceiling.
Approach:
With only one day on site, I pre-scouted the project remotely using mapping software to track sun paths and identify optimal vantage points before arrival. Morning hours were dedicated to on-site scouting, while dusk photography emphasized the material contrast between granite, steel, and the glowing cedar dome. A scouting gallery was shared with the client team in New York, allowing real-time feedback despite their inability to join us on shoot day.
