Helen S. Schaefer Poetry Center, University of Arizona | Line and Space

The University of Arizona's Helen S. Schaefer Poetry Center was opened to the public as well as writers, faculty and students in October 2007. The building creates a landmark facility where the mission of providing an outstanding research collection, quite possibly the most outstanding collection of contemporary poetry in America, and meeting place for writers and readers of poetry can be fulfilled. Founder Ruth Stephan's concepts of accessibility and the connection between reader and poetry are overarching and drove the design for the building. Outdoor gathering and comfortable places of solitude and contemplation are an integral part of this project. The program includes stacks, controlled rare book collection, archives, administration, space for the Humanities Seminar Program and areas for discourse in both small and large groups. Integrated housing, one of the truly unique aspects of the center, is provided to honor and support the tradition of interaction among established poets and students as well as total immersion for those just emerging. Entry Stacked roof planes inspired by the stanzas of a poem, create a less intense transition from the hot, bright exterior to the air-conditioned interior. They also provide shade for the glass curtain walls and outdoor areas that are designed to be usable year-round. South View The seeming visual contra-diction of opposing angles on the south is rationally derived from response to the needs of interior functions. A Reading Lounge in the glass volume benefits from views down to the Odeum, while the metal volume protects the Center’s Archives and Rare Books. The angles also reflect the tension and balance found in poetry. Odeum The Odeum, situated in front of the south-facing glass curtain wall, accommodates poetry readings and presentations. Roof overhangs are calculated to provide shade in the summer but allow warming sun in the winter. Humanities Seminar Room The Humanities Seminar Room is designed as a flexible presentation space for the Center’s public outreach program. Normally seating 100 people, with its sliding glass wall open, up to 400 people can enjoy presentations from the comfort of the shaded transition space. Stacks Users in the space and along the Turning Window Wall benefit from a view into the Bamboo Garden as well as close proximity to the stacks. Seating within the stacks and other areas allows intimacy with the book. Bookshelves were recycled from the University’s surplus and enclosed in new project fabricated maple boxes. User Space Natural light, filtered by the Binary Wall and bamboo, enters through the Turning Window Wall providing a comfortable light for readers. Reading Lounge Intimate spaces such as this Reading Lounge are provided throughout the facility for small group discussions, or more solitary contemplation. Situated above the Odeum, the space provides a connection to activities going on below while maintaining privacy.