William L. Clements Library Renovation and Addition

Clements Library Infrastructure Upgrades
Clements Library Infrastructure Upgrades
Clements Library Infrastructure Upgrades
Michigan Clements SmithGroup

One of the most significant buildings on the University of Michigan campus, the Clements Library was designed by noted architect Albert Kahn, who considered the 1923 Italian Renaissance Revival library his finest work.

Client

University of Michigan

Location

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Markets/Services

Architecture, Archives & Collections Care, Civil Engineering, Cultural, Higher Education, Historic Preservation, Lighting Design, MEP Engineering, Structural Engineering, Sustainable Design

Size

15,577 SF

Featured Awards

American Institute of Architects (AIA) -- Michigan Chapter, Honor Award - Building, 2017
American Institute of Architects (AIA) -- Detroit Chapter, Honor Award - Building, 2017
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) -- Illumination Award of Merit, 2017

View All Awards

Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) -- Detroit Section, Illumination Awards - Section Award, 2017
Engineering Society of Detroit, Construction & Design Award - Honorable Mention, 2017
Washtenaw Contractors Association, Pyramid Award - Best Project Team - Projects between $3 Million & $25 Million, 2016

The Clements Library features outstanding examples of decorative arts, and plaster and stonework craftsmanship. The library is even more renowned for its extraordinary collection of rare books and artifacts relating to the history of American exploration and colonization. The university sought building infrastructure upgrades that would preserve, protect and enhance access to these valuable works.

SmithGroup responded with a cohesive addition that provided much-needed additional space for the rare collections, as well as for the mechanical systems needed to create a properly controlled, conservation-quality environment. The addition carefully maintains the historical integrity and character of the building, while ensuring adequate fire suppression, emergency power, safety features and climate controls to protect the Clements collections for future generations.