MULLINS LIBRARY TRANSFORMATION

KVA designed a transformative renovation and systems upgradeof the main public levels of the Mullins Library at the University of Arkansas.KVA led library vision and programming workshops that guided the reorganizationof Mullins, designed in 1968 as an ‘open stack’ modern library by Edward DurellStone. The KVA design enabled the University’s goals to 1) Provide a new,accessible public entry at the lower-level; 2) Connect Special Collections withresearch activities on the upper-level with public circulation and abundantnatural light; 3) Create a new university-wide research hub for digitalresearch, creation and production that integrates Special Collections resourcesas visible and welcoming research assets.

KVA’s 115,000 GSF design creates a new public circulationthat strengthens the main pedestrian Campus pathway. The design establishes thesignature Arkansas Research & Knowledge Center (ARK) as a visible form andidentity for new form of research: Data Visualization, AR/VR Labs, DigitalAudio, Visual and Maker Spaces. The design connects library levels in sectionwith stairs and collaboration spaces. Double height light wells anchor the ARKand bring natural light to the lower level. A visible, accessible public entrywith a Café and outdoor terrace encourages collaboration and student-centeredactivities.

PROJECT DATA

Date: 2023-2026
Status: Completed
Client: University of Arkansas
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Design Team:
Frano Violich, FAIA; Managing Principal
Sheila Kennedy, FAIA; Principal Consulting on Design
Ned Goodell, AIA; Project Architect
Ben Widger, AIA, Nick Johnson, AIA, Katie Koskey, AIA,Haipeng Lin, Jing Liao, Austin Tsailin
Architect: Kennedy & Violich Architecture, Ltd.
Collaborating Architect: DEMx Architecture
Structural Engineer: Martin Martin
MEP: Affiliated Engineering, Inc.
Civil Engineer: Development Consultants, Inc.
Landscape Architect: Olin
Lighting Designer: Tillotson Design Associates
Acoustic Consultant: Cavanaugh Tocci Associates
Sustainability Consultant: Entegrity Energy Partners
Photographer: KVA