Austin Public Library and Second Street Bridge

Related Products

❮❯

M44-2View Product

L-115View Product

With more than 600,000 users, the Austin Public Library provides a wide range of information and services to enrich the lives of library cardholders and the greater Austin community. The Central Library, which opened in October 2017, has become a vibrant hub of cultural activity that is redefining the traditional library experience. Providing the entire community access to boundless knowledge through cutting-edge technology, extensive print and digital collections, and dynamic programming—the facility also features flexible blended spaces designed to meet the ever-changing needs of the Austin community.

Designed by award-winning Lake Flato Architects and Shepley Bullfinch, the building, which overlooks the iconic Lady Bird Lake, has earned multiple awards and was listed a TIME Magazine ‘Best Place to Visit in 2018’. Banker Wire’s M44-2, L-115 wire mesh were both sourced for the library’s exterior design. The L-115 2-inch wire mesh was applied in a screen format to the open-air reading porch—a covered outdoor extension of the children’s library— designed to enhance their reading experience and spark imagination, by allowing the natural light to flood the room. This large square weave was selected in Powder Coated finish and can be woven in a variety of alloys including stainless steel, plain steel, weathering steel, pre-galvanized, galfan®, aluminum, bronze, brass, and copper.

Banker Wire’s M44-2 was selected in stainless steel for the 2nd Street Bridge, the 2nd Street right-of-way, and the Shoal Creek Greenbelt, just outside of the Library. The contemporary, high definition lock crimp weave of M44-2 with a 4.5-inch square pattern provides a beautiful consistent repeat pattern. Integrated with lighting, the mesh application on the bridge helps to reflect and illuminate the walkway at night, linking the new library property and redeveloped neighborhood with downtown Austin.

The wire mesh used at the Austin Central Library is a great example of how functional materials can improve architectural beauty. This decorative wire mesh not only provides structural support and security to the building but also supplies the façade of the building with a visual texture. Its design is detailed to filter natural light through and show the expression and openness of the library. Using innovative materials, Austin Central Library attains a status that remains unrivaled within a contemporary design. The design demonstrates how elements of a practical nature integrate with an aesthetic to create an inspiring space for the public.