The Providence Public Library Empire Street project included renovation of the 85,000 sf historic 1950s Art Moderne wing. The project program included expanded community learning venues with exhibition, flexible meeting, classroom, and small group spaces. The project program also included a dedicated teen loft, expanded children’s library, and modernized 300-seat auditorium.
MEP systems were upgraded, and carefully integrated with portions of MEP systems to be retained. Fire protection systems were upgraded from partial coverage to full coverage. Precision temperature and humidity controls systems serve a new two-story area for the PPL’s extensive special collections. Sustainable design features include dedicated outside air ventilation systems, ventilation energy recovery, daylight harvesting with automated dimming, and premium efficient lighting and controls.
Recognition
AIA RI, Architecture of Merit Award
American Libraries Magazine by ALA, Library Design Showcase
Services
Mechanical
Electrical
Plumbing
Fire Protection
Technology
Metrics
85,000 sf
Architect
designLAB architects
© 2025 Rist-Frost-Shumway Engineering