As Colorado College continues to develop in order to remain one of the best liberal arts institutions in America, it is only fitting that the facilities and resources on campus reflect this growth as well. As the Tutt Library Renovation begins its second phase, planning will focus on design and budget.
Built in 1962, Tutt Library is the intellectual hub on campus. After receiving an anonymous $5 million donation, the college is excited to create a space that finally fits the Block Plan.
In December, Pfeiffer Partners were selected as the design architects for the library renovations. Since then, the plans for improvements have continued to develop.
Each month, architects meet with the Library Action Team and campus leadership in an effort to maintain communication and collaboration focused on creating the best possible building. Fact-finding meetings were held to discuss the sustainability elements and technology components of the new building. Directors of all programs housed in the library have also been involved in the decision-making process.
The first phase of the programming and conceptual design is complete. Now in the second phase, Pfeiffer Partners are focusing on schematic design, design development, and construction documents.
This approximated five-month process will lay out the interior space of the library floor-by-floor, including program placement and proposed usage of materials. The plan will also take into consideration sustainability options and exterior elevations. At the end of stage two, the college will be given an evaluated cost for design and a project budget.
The new library will be home to nearly double the amount of current seats for students. The building will allow for more natural light, technology-equipped seminar rooms, study spaces, and group collaboration rooms. Along with a new café, the library will also be home to the new Center for Immersive Learning and Engaged Teaching.
Students can view the fifth design scheme on April 22 at a campus open session in Celeste Theater, or at student table sessions on April 24. The scheme will include the exterior elevations, sustainability plans, and a prominent front entrance experience. The final schematic design presentation will be held in May or June.