A double level open room with seating and book shelves at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
The glass facade and leveled outdoor seating areas at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
A double level open room with book stacks on top and seating below at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
People sitting on the stairs.
Focus booths and casual seating in a modern library at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
A casual cafe amenity area at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
A glass classroom and casual seating in a larger room at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
A workstation with a wall white board and person working at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
The glass facade and ramp outside at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
Cafe style seating area at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
A large window and stacks of books with a person sitting and working at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
A man and a woman sitting on a couch in front of a wall with environmental graphic design at Kentucky University Commons Helm Library
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Western Kentucky University Commons at Helm Library

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Fulfilling a desire to create a new destination for students, faculty, and the campus community, the Commons at Helm Library is a new intellectual hub at the historic academic heart of campus. A team of Gensler education designers worked in partnership with the architect of record, Luckett & Farley, and the university, to develop a vision and program that combines social spaces — such as food services venues that can accommodate 900 guests — along with library and student support spaces to transform the daily life of campus-based students as well as commuter students. Located within a 1930s building that originally housed the university gymnasium, the campus project completely reconfigures and reimagines the space, while respecting the history of the building.

Western Kentucky University Commons at Helm Library received an IIDA Illinois RED Award.

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