Edmonton Public Library CEO Pilar Martinez and Councillor Ben Henderson broke ground on the new Capilano Branch on May 4, officially beginning construction on a much-needed successor to the inadequate current facility on the second floor of the Capilano Mall. Since then, crews have erected the jagged steel frame of the pavilion, which is now gradually being clad in finished wood treatment.

The steel frame of the new branch, image by Forum contributor Daveography

Designed by Vancouver's Patkau Architects with local firm Group2, the building's irregular roofline peaks in the middle, creating a vaulted ceiling punctuated by a band of windows, allowing the space to be bathed in natural light. Located at 9915 67 Street NW, the building borders a 60-metre-wide forested area of Edmonton's Fulton Ravine that dissects the property into an east side fronting 67 Street and a west side facing Terrace Road NW. Community rooms and a special 'ravine zone' study space will feature this natural green space as a backdrop.

The jagged roofline of the new branch, image by Forum contributor Daveography

The wood roof takes shape, image by Forum contributor Daveography

The City is targeting a LEED Silver rating for the new library, citing the use of sustainable building materials, close access to public transportation, and parking capacity as key contributors. The new branch, expected to open in late 2018, will serve an estimated 167,158 annual visitors, an increase from 139,298 today.

Edmonton Public Library Capilano Branch, image via Group2 and Patkau Architects

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