tuthillandwells.com - Gunn Memorial Library

Gunn Memorial Library
Washington, CT

The original Gunn Memorial Library was constructed in 1908 atop a hill in Washington, CT. It was originally thought an addition was not possible due to the topography around the library. It was discovered, however, the steep slope behind the building actually helped the design by reducing the visual impact of the 5 story addition on the front of the original building.

In 1993, more space was desperately needed and rather than build a new building on another site, an addition was designed that stepped down the hill and added 12,000 sf to the original 4,000 sf library. The library now has 5 floors, all with access directly to the exterior. The Main Floor, one level below the top floor is where the main entrance is located and all Adult Materials and Staff can be found. One floor below this level is the Children's Department.

The Renaissance Revival period architecture with memorial reliefs, sculptures, stained glass windows and ceiling mural by painter and Washington resident H. Siddons Mowbray all combine to make the Gunn Memorial Library an architectural and cultural treasure. Every effort was made to preserve the original details while upgrading the building with new lighting systems, fire protections systems, technology improvements and modifications to make the building accessible to the physically challenged. A skylight was strategically located in the roof of the addition to allow sunlight to illuminate the stained glass windows and the main gallery as planned by the original architect.

Project was completed in 1995.