The Architecture: The Leonardo will be housed in the former main public library building located at 209 East 500 South in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Originally dedicated in 1964, the building served as the city’s main library branch for over 30 years. With its simple palette of glass, steel, and reinforced concrete, the 100,000 square foot structure is one of only two classic International Style buildings in Salt Lake City. The other building, the Marriott Library at the University of Utah, is currently undergoing a complete renovation that will drastically alter its unique architectural style.
Library Square: The Leonardo will be part of Library Square, a developing civic center that is already Utah's second most visited tourist destination.
Although inspired by the legendary Renaissance man, The Leonardo’s aim is not so much to honor da Vinci's historical genius, as to share and apply his example of daring curiosity, unbounded creativity and pioneering perception. Following are just a few examples of some of the spaces being developed inside The Leonardo:
Leonardo’s Workshop: Establishes The Leonardo as a place for doing, where visitors can practice “inventing as inquiry” through a variety of hands-on activities.
Center for the Story: Visitors can record and present their own stories in this workshop featuring electronic archives and tools.
Movement Lab: Part dance studio, part biometrics lab, a place where visitors can see and experience first-hand the science of art.
The Sphere of Humanity: Visualize data and imagery on this large projection globe, and see how we connect to and impact the rest of the world.
The Leonardo has adopted a comprehensive view of sustainability that includes economic, environmental and social concerns. The Leonardo is integrating these principals into its practices and programs, from daily operations and building systems, to exhibit concepts and design. Current renovation plans will result in an energy-efficient, Silver LEED-certified facility. And, we are continually evaluating additional technologies and practices to help us to become even more responsible.
Stay tuned!
Funding Opportunities: If you or your organiztion are interested in helping The Leonardo create a sustainable facililty, please contact Executive Director Mary Tull at (801) 531-9800 or by email.
