Transforming a Historic Library: A Vision for Community Through Conceptual Renderings
When this urban city library embarked on its ambitious renovation project, the goal was to raise $1.5 million to reimagine its interior spaces. We were thrilled to contribute to this fundraising effort through high-quality conceptual renderings designed to connect with donors on an emotional level. Our task was to illustrate three key areas—Children’s Area, Teens Area, and the Front Entrance—each with a unique thematic narrative: a river-inspired 1st floor, a vibrant cityscape on the 2nd floor, and a parks-and-recreation motif on the 3rd floor. The renderings needed to immerse viewers in a future vision of warmth, community, and functionality while showcasing the historical significance of the space.
Collaborating with Client Assets
Between the library renovation coordinator, their interior designer, and their architecture firm we were provided a wealth of resources to kickstart the project, including floor plans, lighting designs, and furniture layouts. Additionally, we received a virtual tour and a basic 3D model of the building, which served as the foundation for our work. Iconography, graphic design plans, and interior design mood boards ensured alignment with the library’s aesthetic vision. By integrating these elements, we captured the nuances of their designs while enhancing their visual storytelling potential.
Crafting Detailed Custom Models
Using design boards prepared by the interior designer, which depicted the proposed furniture and built-ins, we created custom 3D models for each of the featured spaces. In the Front Entrance lobby, we modeled rolling book displays that added functionality and a sense of flow. For the Children’s Area, we crafted playful reading nooks and versatile activity tables that emphasized engagement and creativity. The Teens Area featured custom seating, tables, and modern book displays that combined style with utility, reflecting the space’s urban-inspired theme. These tailored models brought the design vision to life, ensuring that every detail aligned with the library’s goals.
Custom Graphics and Materials
To make the renderings truly stand out, we went beyond the initial scope by designing a custom graphic for a vinyl print on the large window of the Teens Area maker space. This graphic, which we provided as a complimentary addition, featured a bold and inspiring cityscape motif that tied perfectly to the room’s urban theme. By showcasing this detail in the renderings, we added a unique touch that highlighted the creative energy of the space. Alongside this, we meticulously crafted textures and materials for furniture, flooring, and fixtures to ensure every element reflected the library’s vision. This thoughtful extra effort was aimed at giving the renderings the strongest impact for inspiring donor support.
The final renderings exceeded expectations, illustrating a compelling vision that resonates with potential donors. By weaving realism with an emotive narrative, we empowered this city library to showcase its dream and inspire support from the community. This project serves as a shining example of how thoughtful design and storytelling can drive fundraising success.
View the complete gallery of renderings from this project. See More.
