Hackley - Sternberg Library

Interior of a library reading room with a high vaulted, coffered ceiling and hanging cylindrical light fixtures, wooden bookshelves lining the walls, and students seated at wooden tables studying and using laptops, with a large arched window at one end.
Honoring History Through Light

Following the restoration of Goodhue Hall after a devastating fire, the Sternberg Library reimagined the building’s historic second floor as a modern learning environment while preserving the architectural character that defines the campus.

The main reading room is anchored by its dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling, where custom decorative fixtures were designed to reflect the building’s historic character while seamlessly incorporating modern lighting technology. Working in concert with carefully concealed architectural lighting, the layered system highlights the restored architecture without competing for attention.

Sunlit hallway in a campus library with a vaulted wood-beamed ceiling, students seated at desks using iMac computers along the left side, and two people walking through a series of arched doorways in the background, with an illuminated 'EXIT' sign overhead.

Supporting the Student Experience

Adjacent activity spaces, reading areas, and individual study desks each required a lighting approach suited to their function. Balanced illumination, visual comfort, and flexibility help create spaces that support focused study, collaboration, and informal gathering throughout the day.

Lighting That Bridges Past and Present

Rather than replicating the past or introducing an overtly contemporary aesthetic, the lighting strategy connects the building’s architectural heritage with the performance expectations of a modern academic environment. The result is a library that feels timeless while providing the comfort, efficiency, and functionality expected of today’s educational spaces.

Recognition
  • LEED Gold Certified
  • GE Edison Award of Merit (2010)
  • IES AIA Connecticut Award of Merit (2011)
  • IESNA Award of Merit (2011)
Design in Detail

Preserving History Through Light

Explore how layered architectural lighting respects the building's historic character while supporting learning, collaboration, and discovery.

A wood-paneled lobby with tall columns and round drum light fixtures, leather armchairs and benches arranged on a patterned rug, a curved staircase in the background where two students walk up with backpacks, and a man seated reading near the exit doors.
Library Lobby. A warm, welcoming gateway to learning.
Interior of a library reading room with a high vaulted, coffered ceiling and hanging cylindrical light fixtures, wooden bookshelves lining the walls, and students seated at wooden tables studying and using laptops, with a large arched window at one end.
Reading Room. Custom fixtures bridge historic character and modern performance.
Students seated at a wooden table studying in a library alcove framed by an arched wooden doorway, with bookshelves lining both sides and glass-paned doors and a wall clock visible in the background.
Private Study Areas. Balanced lighting supports collaborative and focused learning.
Sunlit hallway in a campus library with a vaulted wood-beamed ceiling, students seated at desks using iMac computers along the left side, and two people walking through a series of arched doorways in the background, with an illuminated 'EXIT' sign overhead.
Computer Lab. Comfortable lighting supports concentration while reducing visual fatigue.

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