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BIBLIOTECA
LATINOAMERICANA & SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA
The 15, 000 square foot library plays a central role in both local and regional community life by housing one of the state’s largest collections of Latin American literature. “La Entrada,” a primary architectural element of the project, is a concrete masonry block and clay brick abstract tapestry that narrates the history of Anglo and Latin American relations. A traditional geometric motif taken from historic Latino culture serpentines across the wall and is engaged by a free form abstract mass of masonry influenced by abstract modern paintings. The weave of the two symbolizes historical precedent and modernism. The 17,000 square foot youth center also serves a central role in community life. It houses a gymnasium, boxing/weightlifting, multi-purpose room, game room, staff offices, classroom and parent/teen counseling rooms. It is constructed primarily of expressed concrete masonry block in complementary colors and similar textures to the library. Concrete masonry block was always the main building material consideration for a project that had budget constraints and requirement for architecture that demanded a sense of permanency and strength. Through the creative use of concrete masonry, the project succeeds in exceeding expectations. The concrete masonry block walls serve as the interior as well as the exterior finish of these structures, which helped achieve design excellence within the given budget. The unique patterning of the masonry utilizes three different colors and smooth, striated, fluted and split-face texture serves to make the community proud of the buildings and has discouraged graffiti vandalism due to that community pride.
ARCHITECT: Steven Ehrlich Architects Steven Ehrlich, FAIA Garcia Teague Architecture +
Interiors, Inc. Gilbert M. Garcia, AIA
OWNERS: City of San Jose |
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JURY
COMMENTS:
This
project responds well to the Latin culture and heritage and
is an excellent example of the range of uses available with
concrete masonry. We loved the protective and complex nature
of the “La Entrada” wall and were also taken by
how engaging and impressive the project is when lit at
night.
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