From Past to Future: The Visionary Redesign of Redford Township's Children's Library

The Visionary Redesign of Redford Township's Children's Library

Twenty years ago, the Redford Township District Library opened its doors, a gleaming 65,000-square-foot beacon of knowledge and community spirit. This architectural gem, crafted by the visionaries at Merritt McPherson Cieslak (now MCD Architects) and brought to life by McCarthy & Smith, Inc., quickly became a cherished landmark. On August 23, 2004, residents of Redford Township marveled at the state-of-the-art library, a testament to forward-thinking design and community collaboration.

Fast forward two decades, and that same dynamic team has once again partnered with the library to share their expertise. As the original designers and builders of the library, MCD Architects and McCarthy & Smith were the natural choices to undertake a project that would bring world-class new design to this beloved institution. This time, their focus was on transforming a dormant second-floor storage space into an awe-inspiring children's facility—a space designed not just for today’s young readers, but for generations to come.

The project, which officially began September 2023, is marked by a deep connection to the township’s history. During an early walkthrough of the empty second floor, a conversation between Architect Steven Schneemann and Library Director Garrett Hungerford sparked the inspiration for what would become a groundbreaking design. Hungerford shared a fascinating tidbit of local history: the name “Redford” comes from “Rouge” (French for “red”) and “ford,” meaning to cross over, referring to the crossing of the Rouge River. This revelation became the cornerstone of the new children's facility’s theme.

The design concept revolves around the natural environments found along a river, creating a cohesive yet diverse experience as patrons journey through the space. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a grand stairway that leads to the children's section, where a “river” flows metaphorically, guiding them through the various thematic areas. The river-inspired pathway connects a forest, complete with a live green wall; a meadow, where spinning flowers and hanging bees captivate young imaginations; wetlands that evoke the mysteries of nature; and an urban setting, highlighted by a stage for dynamic children's programming. At the heart of this imaginative landscape is a covered wooden bridge that not only symbolizes the “crossing” of the river but also serves as a central gathering point, with study rooms and group seating areas offering spaces for learning and collaboration.

Every detail of the children's area was meticulously planned and executed. The whimsical, customized design elements—ranging from the furniture and materials to the ceiling designs and lighting—create an immersive environment that transports visitors into a world of discovery. MCD Architects worked hand-in-hand with McCarthy & Smith, Inc., ensuring that each aspect of the project reflected the community’s vision and the library's commitment to fostering a love of reading and learning among its youngest patrons.

The grand reveal on August 24, 2024, was nothing short of spectacular. Over 1,700 guests visited the newly transformed space on its first day, with families and children alike enchanted by the creative and engaging environments. The project, which took over three years to complete, is more than just a renovation; it is a reinvention of what a library can be.

MCD Architects, with over 50 years of experience in library design, were the masterminds behind this transformation, demonstrating that their expertise is essential for libraries aiming to create world-class spaces that serve and inspire their communities. In an era where libraries are constantly evolving to meet the needs of their communities, the Redford Township District Library’s new children's facility sets a new standard. It is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community sticks with a trusted team—proving once again that when you stick with a good team, you can do big things.