Liollio Architecture is honored to announce that the American Institute of Architects South Atlantic Region has recognized Liollio’s design of Richland Library Ballentine in Irmo, SC with a 2020 AIA SAR Design Award.

Exploring the concept of Library as Studio with Richland Library, the Ballentine branch implemented innovative programming concepts. Community meetings and focus groups revealed a strong identity of art, craft, and connection to nature. An outdoor deck, reading great room, community living room, puppet theatre, built-in activity wall with reading nooks, small and medium gathering spaces, a maker space, and an art studio are key features. A completely flexible approach to defining space with furnishings makes the library eminently adaptable throughout the day.

The AIA SAR has a long-standing tradition of recognizing a broad range of architecture activity that exemplifies the values of the South Atlantic Region and improves the quality of the built environment.The SAR Design Awards program seeks to highlight the diverse range of project types that exist within the region. The 2020 Aspire Design Awards were presented digitally during this year’s online conference. Over 350 projects were submitted to the program and 29 were awarded.