Library Director says “the space is functional, inspirational, warm and welcoming to our patrons.”

The design of this award-winning 13,500 SF municipal library reflects the fishing and boating heritage of the City of Destin. Laminated wood beams express the structure similar to the ribbing of a ship, masts rise to support the enclosing "hull" roof, meetings occur below an arching ceiling of wood reminiscent of nearby boathouses, and children gather to listen and learn in the prow of a playful ship. The site provides opportunities for quiet reflection under a broad entry porch with views out to the windswept live oak trees that were carefully preserved on the site.  The building’s soft moss green hardiplank siding and natural metal roof harmonizes with its older residential neighborhood.  Jurate Burns, Library Director, says, “This was a long-awaited project in our community and has become a source of considerable civic pride. The success of this library structure is largely attributable to the use of local architects who grew up in the environs, had the knowledge of how to achieve a sense of place, and were creative enough to reach the goals within a small municipality’s budget!”