



Barbara J. Burger iZone
University of Rochester, Rush Rhees Library | Rochester, NY
The transformation of a 13,000sf atrium/mezzanine space within the historic Rush Rhees Library creates iZone – a collaborative pre-incubator space where University of Rochester students go to engage, explore and imagine ideas for social, community, and economic impact.
The visionary design met the specialized program and services needs and included an amphitheater as one of the big ideas to showcase events both within iZone and to passersby.
The team overcame the challenge of low ceilings and poor lighting by using stacked booth seating that neutralized the visual impact of the low ceilings all the while providing popular booth seating for teamwork.
Lighting, color, and furniture punctuated the functional design, creating a balance of professionalism and playfulness that set the tone for the space. iZone provides a suite of very specialized learning spaces designed to inspire imagination, catalyze ideas, and promote innovation.
Learn more – Case Study for iZone
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Quick Facts
- American Libraries Association (ALA) Library Design Showcase, 2019
- Award of Excellence, AIA Southern New York, 2019
- IES Illumination Award of Merit, 2019
- 13,000 SF
- Library Pre-Incubator Space
- Within Rush Rhees Library
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