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Olathe Downtown Library

A contemporary library designed for connection, learning, and exploration.

Location
Olathe, KS
Client
Olathe Public Library
Practices
Size
46,600 sq.ft.
Year
2023
Awards
Kansas City Business Journal (KCBJ) - Capstone Award for Community Impact

The Olathe Downtown Library was designed to be a dynamic public space that blends Olathe’s rich history with modern functionality.

Serving as a community hub, the library replaces multiple smaller locations with a centralized, destination-driven design, offering flexible gathering spaces, cutting-edge technology, and an environment that fosters lifelong learning.

Design & Key Features

Exploration Tower – A glass tower serves as a visual and navigational landmark, featuring a stairwell adorned with a verbena wildflower pattern, a nod to the region’s natural landscape.

Flexible Spaces – Includes the Flexbox Theater, ideal for events and seminars, and the Copeland Rooftop Terrace, offering an outdoor gathering space with views of downtown Olathe.

Modern Amenities – Meeting rooms with adaptable furniture, a café with cozy seating, ergonomic staff workstations, and a co-work office for collaboration and privacy.

A Space Designed for Connection

The interior prioritizes comfort and accessibility, incorporating soft seating, warm textiles, and natural light to create a welcoming atmosphere. Lounge areas, study nooks, and multipurpose rooms allow for individual focus or community interaction, ensuring the library meets the diverse needs of its patrons.

A Destination for the City’s Future

By consolidating library services into two comprehensive locations—Indian Creek Library and the new Downtown Library—Olathe has redefined the role of the public library, transforming it into a place to gather, relax, collaborate, and explore. The Downtown Library stands as a testament to thoughtful design, blending history, innovation, and community engagement into a space that will serve Olathe for generations to come.

This project encompasses so many of the objectives we have set forth in our growth strategy. Much time and energy has been put in, and the result is a genuine and meaningful piece of Olathe that will stand the test of time; an Olathe icon in the making.

Mayor John Bacon, City of Olathe, Kansas
LEED GOLD

CHPS

Related Article

Additional Credits

Designed in association with DLR Group

Developer: Lane4 Property Group

Library/Interior Architect: Multistudio

Exterior Architect: DLR Group

General Contractor: McCownGordon Construction

Civil Engineer: Olsson

Lighting Designer: Derek Porter Studio

Photographer: Michael Robinson

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