Ft. Lauderdale Main Library - Robert Gatje
A support similar to the one in the IBM campus in Boca Raton. (please see previous article on IBM campus)
Year of Construction: 1984
Architect: Robert Gatje of Marcel Breuer and Associates
The Ft. Lauderdale Main Library is a building light years away from anyhting else in Ft. Lauderdale of South Florida in terms of design and construction. Designed by Robert Gatje who was a partner in Marcel Breuer and Assocaites (the same firm who designed the IBM campus in Boca Raton and the Whitney Museum in New York), it represents that last gasp of Brutalist architecture in South Florida. Complete in the mid 80's the building does not fall in the traditional period for this kind of architecture. But since it come from the offices of marcel Breuer it is a concrete building. Unlike most, it has a glass curtain wall facade on the north side. The east, west and south are covered in Florida keystone marble with some expose conrete. The concrete which is exposed is incredibly smooth and of a high quality. Openings in the elevation are shaded with concrete brise soleils. Inside the library space is arranged around five storey central space. This courtyard organizes the many many different spaces in the building creating a very simple cicrulation system throughout. It was recently renovated and it is being considered for historic landmark status. I sincerely believe this is one of Florida's greatest architectural treasures. The only negative thing I can say from having studied inside the building for many years is that is smells like wet socks but that because there is a water feature at the entrance. Otherwise, its a wonderful place to see.
