The famous main branch of the Vancouver Public Library is undergoing a major renovation that will finally decorate the rooftop with an accessible and lushly landscaped garden, aligning the building's public spaces with the original vision established by architect Moshe Safdie. The existing green roof is inaccessible, and in comparison to Safdie's original intentions, represents one of Vancouver's biggest missed opportunities in urban space.

An aerial overview of the exterior enhancements, image via Vancouver Public Library

The pièce de résistance of the $15 million renovation includes the 8,000-square-foot garden, designed by landscape architect Cornelia Oberlander, which will present a vibrant and verdant public area for quiet study and observing the skyline. The area will likely become a platform for a deluge of programmed events, including lectures, workshops, and community meetings.

The new rooftop garden will be fully accessible to the public, image via Vancouver Public Library

In total, the renovations will add about 35,000 square feet of public space to the building's haul, with a new 80-seat theatre, quiet reading area, art exhibition space, two outdoor terraces, and kitchen-equipped multi-purpose rooms also in the queue. Levels eight and nine, which the provincial government had previously occupied, are now being renovated and turned over for these public functions.

A variety of floral species will be arranged around contemplative study spaces, image via Vancouver Public Library

Future plans include converting the seventh floor into the new home of the City of Vancouver Archives, which is currently located at Vanier Park. This on top of the usual upgrades the library continues to make as technology — and the downtown core — rapidly develops. Completed in 1995, the project was auspiciously put to a referendum in 1990. A design competition saw Moshe Safdie and local firm DA Architects come away as the winners with a Coliseum-inspired concept that was far and away the citizenry's favourite. Now, the popular civic landmark is among the most photographed and frequented buildings in Vancouver.

Two previously government-occupied storeys are being turned over for public use, image via Vancouver Public Library

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