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Interior of the main reading room at the University of Virginia Shannon Library. Featuring the Newport Chair and custom reading and study carrells.

University of Virginia:

Shannon Library

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA | 2024

 

In the spring of 2024, the University of Virginia (UVA) held the grand reopening of its main library following a transformative, four-year renovation and expansion. The newly named Edgar Shannon Library—honoring the University’s fourth president—now blends modern amenities with historic features, serving as an accessible hub for students, faculty, and the community. 

 

“In the past, there was tension between

designing the library for books and designing

the library for people. Now, we can do both.”

-Kit Meyer, Facilities Manager & Library Renovation Project Manager

 

For the seating, UVA wanted to maintain the historic gravitas of the space. In keeping with the traditional Windsor chairs present in the original library, the university was drawn to the spindle chairs of Thos. Moser. For the new courtyard study areas, they selected the Thos. Moser Continuous Arm Chairs, and over 500 walnut and ash Newport Chairs accompany the large study tables and individual workstations. The library also incorporated custom Eastward Benches. The new Stanley and Lucie Weinstein Buddhist and Asian Studies library is a prime example of this elegant and modern redesign. Furnished with Thos. Moser Fahmida Lounge Chairs and custom reading tables paired with NYPL Branch Chairs further enhance the room’s elegant aesthetic while providing durability that will last for generations of scholars.

 

 

 

Learn more about the installation.

 

 

A large atrium with spindle chairs and quiet places to study.

Project Details

Project Specifier

  • Bill Kinane and Michelle Silvettie-Schmitt of HBRA Architects
  • UVA Architect, Alice J. Raucher

Products Used

  • Newport Chair
  • Thos. Moser Continuous Arm Chair
  • Eastward Bench
  • Study Tables with custom Marmoleum Tops
  • Custom Maple Bookcases
  • Fahmida Lounge Chair
  • NYPL Branch Chair
  • Custom Walnut Reading Tables and Coffee Tables

Customization

  • Specified reading table dimensions
  • Power and data integration with outlet and light solutions
  • Custom mounting and power kit solution
  • Custom-designed bookcases with touch-release drawers
  • Customized table top risers with integrated data and power ports
Stanley and Lucie Weinstein Buddhist and Asian studies library at the University of Virginia featuring the Fahmida Lounge Chair in walnut with black leather.

 

 

 

 

 

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