Temporary Redesign: Downtown Fargo Library

By Nathan Thomas
Contributing Writer

Nineteen students.  One professor. A city employee. A public library. Two concepts.  And the chance for the students to actualize their first design. For one week in November, these elements will combine to create a one-time installation for the public at Fargo’s downtown public library.

The week of November 15, students from North Dakota State University will transform the east and west entrance of the Public Library in a project called “Transitions.”  Each design will redefine the transitions between interior and exterior.
The idea for this project began this summer, when NDSU Professor Stevie Famulari met with Tim Dirks, Director of City of the Fargo Public Library, to discuss students constructing their design in this public space. After a positive response, Prof. Famulari introduced the project to her students. 

The students began by dividing into two groups, each taking an entrance to the library.  In mid-October they started researching the history and existing conditions of the site. Based on their analysis, both groups explored and developed design ideas, which were presented and approved in October.

“Transforming Perception” will be installed at the east entrance. Inspired by the changing effects of the Red River, the design will bring awareness of the river’s impact on the city.  As one moves through the library entrance, the experience is physical with a gradual transition to a cognitive feel of the river.

“Symphony in Red,” located at the west entrance of the building, will draw the public in through flowing red fabric. The design appears to move through the glass windows by using 200 yards of vibrant red fabric to create the illusion that there is no glass.

Landscape Architecture student Emily Neueschwander says of the project, “it’s an interesting feeling to design something that you know other people will get to experience. It has also been a new challenge to design with the intention of actualizing our work.”

What viewers can’t see is all that goes into an installation of this magnitude. The students have committed an enormous amount of time to this project, and it likely is one of the most intense experiences of their undergraduate years—a life experience both great and draining “Although this has been one of the most stressful projects to work on,” said Jake Williams, “it will be worth it when we actually get to experience it.” 

What you can see: transforming perception is a breathtaking ambition. When successful, as in Christo’s best work, one sees, in a completely new light, an object so familiar that it has “disappeared.” It’s unbelievably cool that they are even trying this.

“Transitions” will be installed on Monday, November 15 and remain up through November 22.  A public reception with the NDSU Landscape architecture students will be Wednesday, 17 November, from 3-5pm at the library.

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If You Go

What: “Transitions”—Temporary Installations
Where: Downtown Fargo Public Library
When: Through Nov 22
Info: 505.710.3586