Manhattan Beach Library

Manhattan Beach Library, County of Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

More than skin deep.

An intricately- engineered exterior renews a 1910 library.

A novel approach.

Founded in 1910, Manhattan Beach Library is one of the oldest continuous libraries in the Los Angeles Public Library system. As Executive Architect, we partnered with Design Architect Johnson Favaro to build a structure that meets the evolving needs of its surrounding community—and achieved LEED Gold certification in the process.

The updated Manhattan Beach Library was designed to reflect both its coastal setting and to capture the character of Manhattan Beach.

As Executive Architect, HED worked to design and engineer the structure’s exterior skin. The resulting double-glazed façade acts as a heat recovery system to substantially reduce maintenance cost, and was a significant contributor to the library’s LEED Gold certification.

The 21,500 square foot, two-story facility boasts dramatic, floor-to-ceiling glass walls framing Pacific Ocean seascapes.

An intimate meeting space accommodates small gatherings and community events, and includes an advanced audiovisual system with remote touch panel controls and a kitchen.

State-of-the-art technology, dedicated space for children and families and an adult reading area create an inspiring learning environment.

The children’s area includes an interactive learning wall, open reading space for families, four early-literacy computers and eight children’s-access computers.