Hekman Library

Centerbrook, in collaboration with GMB Architecture & Engineering, designed the renovation of Hekman Library as the first phase of a master plan to create a hub for student life with a new Commons Union building connected to the invigorated library.

The primary goal of the project is to create a learning commons with spaces that promote collaboration, connection, socialization, and content creation. The renovations, which encompass three floors, will be connected by a new central staircase to make the library’s flow more coherent and to link it with an adjacent building, Hiemenga Hall.

Client

Calvin University

Location Grand Rapids, MI
Features renovation
Photo Credit Centerbrook

On the lower level and first floors will be new spaces for a wide variety of programs and services, including IT support, campus ministries, the campus newspaper, a learning center, and student organizations. The library’s collections will be interspersed among new spaces for learning and collaboration. The second floor will be the library’s main hub of operations, with house staff offices, circulation and reference desks, classrooms, the career center, group study rooms, and additional areas for student learning and gathering.

The project also includes renovating the second floor of Hiemenga Hall, to provide space for organizations and programs that will be relocated from an existing building that will be demolished to make way for the new Commons Union. The renovations encompass 75,000 square feet.