The newly expanded Elkridge Branch of the Howard County Library System was completed in 2018 and provides the community with a much needed center for social, educational and activity-based functions. Grimm and Parker Architects drew upon historical and geographical references to design a facility accessible to constituents of all ages.

The architect took advantage of color and performance uniformity found in Inter-lux/Whitegoods linears and downlights to develop a language of light that could be used not only to illuminate, but to define different areas of the library’s interior. By using Inter-lux products in both the exterior and interior, they avoided the color rendering disparity often found when utilizing different manufacturers’ products in adjacent areas.

The sculptural quality of the X-patterned lighting references the railroad that once serviced Elkridge. It was replicated in the children’s area by using Inter-lux/Whitegoods linears with a custom shroud.

In March of 2019, The Elkridge Library and 50+ Center won a Community Champion sustainability award from the U.S Green Building Council Maryland.

Project Name: Elkridge Library
Project Location: Elkridge, MD
Architect: Grimm + Parker
Photography: Sam Kittner