Review board looks at new library design

Milford — There were no decisions made and another session will be needed in May, but compromise was in the air Monday evening. Library officials and the architectural review board got together and listened to architect Frederick Schwartz detail the design changes for the proposed new central library to be built in the borough’s historic district, on East Harford Street. Introducing Schwartz, library attorney John Stieh urged that it was time to get on with it. Noting the compromises made, he said, “It’s not about whether I like it or you like it or she likes it... it’s about the library.” Schwartz said the “cube over cube,” appearance of the old design, to which borough architect Peter Benton objected, was gone. Benton, who was on hand, nodded his head in agreement. The cubes were replaced by tiered levels, varying window sizes and shapes, and an off-white, cedar exterior. “The color and materials can change; it’s not stuck in stone. We are learning to listen,” Schwartz added. Speaking as much to design supporters at the Borough Hall meeting as to the review board, Schwartz said, “It’s just as wonderful - trust me - it just looks different.” Review board members had questions: parking in front, a flat roof. Chairman Kevin Stroyan noted that some questions may be suited to zoning. But, since the order of review was reversed for this project, Stroyan was concerned that architectural review board approval could be seen as tacit endorsement for other borough permitting approvals. Schwartz said the front parking was designed to save the rear viewscape to the Sawkill Creek from traffic. Schwarz said he did not believe that approving a flat “green” library roof would set a precedent for future development. Benton agreed that other flat roofs exist in the historic district. Some board queries: lighting, signage, building air ducts , trash and loading areas were construction related. Schwartz said he would need to return. “I’m not in the construction mode. I’m in the perception mode.” Stroyan said a completed application was needed and that it must include all these issues. The library application returns to the board at 7 p.m. on May 27.