![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Exterior Photography, Windows, Facade](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f909/3312/fd7c/7e00/02e3/medium_jpg/JRA_Independence_Library_02_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403446)
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Architects: John Ronan Architects
- Area: 60000 ft²
- Year: 2019
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Photographs:James Florio
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Manufacturers: ALPOLIC, Centria, Gate Precast, Kawneer, PITTCO, TRACO
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Lead Architects: John Ronan FAIA
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Exterior Photography, Windows, Facade](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f93c/3312/fd7c/7e00/02e5/medium_jpg/JRA_Independence_Library_09_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403499)
Text description provided by the architects. This hybrid library/affordable housing project in Chicago combines a 16,000 square foot branch library with a 44-unit affordable apartment complex for seniors. The two-story library element is slid forward on the site to the street to foreground its public nature, while the residential block, which hovers above, is set back from the street.
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Interior Photography, Shelving](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f9cb/3312/fd7c/7e00/02e9/newsletter/JRA_Independence_Library_17_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403643)
The two-story library supports reading and learning areas for all age groups, as well as a large community multi-purpose room which supports public lectures, gatherings and events. The second floor of the library extends out over the covered parking to form a park-like terrace space serving as an outdoor amenity space for residents as well as occasional library use.
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Image 5 of 30](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f9a1/3312/fd7c/7e00/02e8/newsletter/JRA_Independence_Library_15_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403598)
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Image 22 of 30](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/fb93/3312/fd14/3300/074d/newsletter/independence_ground_level_plan.jpg?1572404094)
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Image 26 of 30](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/fb7c/3312/fd7c/7e00/02ee/newsletter/independence_building_section_b.jpg?1572404073)
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Interior Photography, Shelving](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f9fc/3312/fd14/3300/0746/newsletter/JRA_Independence_Library_19_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403691)
All apartments feature brightly-colored balconies recessed into the façade speak to individuality amidst the collective, enabling residents to identify their house from the street in a conscious attempt to transcend the brutal pragmatism which has characterized Chicago’s past efforts in this area.
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Interior Photography, Shelving](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f9b7/3312/fd14/3300/0744/newsletter/JRA_Independence_Library_16_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403620)
Sustainable design elements include green roof, storm water management, daylighting and passive ventilation.
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Windows, Brick, Facade](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f924/3312/fd7c/7e00/02e4/newsletter/JRA_Independence_Library_07_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403472)
![Independence Library and Apartments / John Ronan Architects - Exterior Photography, Windows, Facade](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5db8/f8f0/3312/fd14/3300/0742/newsletter/feature_-_JRA_Independence_Library_01_(credit_James_Florio).jpg?1572403421)