Houghton Library Renovation at Harvard University

Houghton Library, Harvard’s principal repository for rare books and manuscripts, has long stood as a monument to scholarship.  Housed in a Georgian Revival building completed in 1942, it is one of the few Harvard libraries open to the public. Its recent renovation marks the most significant transformation in its history—a thoughtful reimagining that balances accessibility, preservation, and modern academic needs. This vision came to life through a close collaboration between Harvard, Ann Beha Architects (ABA), and Thos. Moser.

A walnut Round Ring Table sits within the renovated circular staircase at the entrance of the library.

Harvard University’s goal was clear: make the Houghton Library more welcoming and accessible while preserving its architectural and cultural legacy. This required careful intervention across every aspect of the building. Outside, the redesigned entrance now offers universal access with a composition inspired by a 1940s archival rendering—granite steps, lighting, and sloped walkways that echo the symmetry of the original plan. Inside, modifications to the oval rotunda—untouched since the building’s opening—create a new exhibition area for rotating collections, drawing the public further into the heart of the library.

Left: The consultation room at Harvard Houghton Library featuring a desk by Thos. Moser.  Right: Detail of the reading tables with power and dimmer switches integrated into the skirt of the table.

Renewing a Historic Landmark

In the main Reading Room, the vision is equally clear: to support both individual and collaborative research with modern tools and classic beauty. The newly added consultation room, with an ADA-compliant desk by Thos. Moser,  and the adjacent group study space are visually connected through full-height glass partitions, creating a sense of openness and light. Custom-designed Thos. Moser tables and desks anchor the room, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all users.

Craftsmanship with a Purpose

Thos. Moser’s involvement in the project reflects Harvard’s commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and design integrity. A long-standing design partner with ABA, Thos. Moser brought a responsive, iterative process: from 3D models and sketches to full-scale mock-ups. Each of the six custom six-by-eight-foot long cherry reading tables was designed with accessibility and aesthetics in mind. Much attention was given to the design of the tapered legs where they join the shaped aprons with a shadow reveal to provide visual continuity with the building’s historical detail. Within the design, knife-edge profiles with integrated power and data controls add modern utility. The tables feature accessible seating for individuals in wheelchairs, along with embedded power outlets and adjustable lighting arms for optimal use with large-format research materials. Thos. Moser’s ability to craft elegant, durable furniture using sustainably sourced hardwoods— while meeting Harvard’s Healthy Hospital Initiative standards—made them a natural fit for the library’s next chapter.

Thos. Moser craftsmen work on building the reading tables for the main reading room.

“One of the standout features in these tables, and something that truly impressed me, was the meticulous attention to detail in technology integration. The seamless management of wires and electrical components, discreetly embedded within the structure, was a masterpiece.”

-Andy LaPlume, Harvard’s Director of Infrastructure and Sustainability

Integrating Modern Design Within Historic Context

“One of the standout features in these tables, and something that truly impressed me, was the meticulous attention to detail in technology integration. The seamless management of wires and electrical components—discreetly embedded within the structure—was a masterpiece,” says Andy LaPlume, Harvard’s Director of Infrastructure and Sustainability. This aspect, which involved extensive deliberation and collaboration, highlights Thos. Moser’s capabilities in designing furniture that fits the space and needs of today with seamless adaptability over time.  Material consistency was important: cork and linoleum flooring,  wood furniture, and molding profiles precisely matched to historical references ensure that these new additions feel inherently part of the building. Throughout the design process, Harvard and Thos. Moser explored various wood species extensively, weighing the merits of each for durability and aesthetic harmony. What’s particularly notable is how the design quietly embeds modern functionality within a historically significant interior. The tables support evolving technological needs—whether it’s power access, lighting, or equipment—without visually disrupting the space’s character. Regardless of future changes, these tables are built to endure. They prioritize functionality, ensuring optimal conditions for viewing and handling rare and unique collections, while their timeless design—expansive surfaces, unobtrusive edges, and clean profiles—respects and elevates the library’s architectural heritage.

A Contemporary Library Rooted in Heritage

During the renovation, Harvard prioritized several key objectives: enhancing accessibility to the building and its collections while preserving historical integrity, upgrading security measures, managing hazardous material abatement, and maintaining crucial climate controls for rare materials. This intricate balance of requirements was successfully achieved through meticulous planning, thoughtful design strategies, and collaborative partnerships.

With respect for the building’s architectural origins and an unwavering commitment to inclusion and accessibility, Harvard has reintroduced Houghton not just as a space for rare books, but as a public destination for scholarship and inspiration. Through the craftsmanship of Thos. Moser, the vision of Ann Beha Architects, and the stewardship of Harvard, the renovation proves that tradition and innovation, when expertly guided, can shape something enduring and new.

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