Project Summary
The new Ballard Branch of the The Seattle Public Library and the adjacent Ballard Neighborhood Service Center opened May 14, 2005. The 15,000 square foot library, more than twice the size of the previous branch, is the largest outside of the central downtown library. As part of the dedication celebration, an architectural panel addressed the building's key features including a discussion of the gently arched roof, which is capped with green plants and solar "green" power.
While the sod roof provides roof insulation and helps retain rainwater to slow stormwater flows, the solar modules act as a sponge for solar energy, helping to reduce the building's electricity requirements. The green roof can be observed through periscopes provided in the library or via a tour upstairs to a roof observation area.
Multipurpose glass: views, shade and electricity!
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Solar modules add meaning to the planted "green" roof.
In the first application of its type in Seattle, and possibly Northwest, thin-film solar cells are integrated into a portion of the south and west-facing glass units surrounding the Neighborhood Service Center. By intercepting the sun, the cells provide critical shading of the glass while allowing just enough light to penetrate and illuminate the space.
Other green building and art features are highlighted on the Ballard Library's website: Ballard Library Environmental Features
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