The existing Hillview library in an East San Jose neighborhood is both outdated and severely undersized to support current program and collection needs. As part of citywide effort to update neighborhood libraries, the City of San Jose won the agreement of the Alum Rock School District to build the replacement facility on an existing middle school site.

In addition to meeting a complex citywide program, the key challenge is to create an appropriate civic image as well as make the building visually compatible with its neighborhood. Significant attention was paid to vary the building’s massing to avoid a monotonous, institutional appearance. Building forms and colors are playful yet restrained. Interior activities are visible through the glazed entrance wall, connecting inside and outside. A community room is located to the side, with separate exterior and interior entrances.

Sustainable design elements include bio-swales, storm water detention pond, reduced heat island effect, zero light pollution, low irrigation water usage, superior thermal envelope, superior HVAC performance 30% above ASHRAE, non-HCFC refrigeration system, construction waste recycling, recycled content building materials, local sources, indoor air quality control both during and after construction, and day-lighting.