Kicking off 50 Years of HBM with Carnegie West

As HBM Architects celebrates 50 years of practice, we're looking back at the library projects that helped define who we are. The Carnegie West Branch of Cleveland Public Library holds special significance in our firm’s history- it was the very first public library we had the opportunity to design, setting the foundation for what would become decades of award-winning work in civic and library architecture.

Restoring a Landmark

Located in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood, the Carnegie West Branch originally opened in 1910 and remains the largest branch in the Cleveland Public Library system. By the time we were brought in for the renovation in the 1970s, the building had deteriorated and no longer met the needs of the community.

Rather than replace the structure, our team proposed a path forward rooted in preservation and adaptability.

Ornate terra cotta columns and trim were carefully restored using innovative techniques, including epoxy injection to stabilize cracks and prevent further deterioration. The original character of the exterior was preserved, while much-needed improvements were made to bring the building up to modern standards.

A Reimagined Interior

Inside, the library was reorganized to create open, welcoming spaces with improved sightlines and comfortable seating. A new energy-efficient lighting system was developed in collaboration with General Electric’s research team. Designed to illuminate the coffered ceiling in the central reading room, the system provided shadow-free lighting while preserving the architectural beauty of the space.

Preservation Over Demolition

At the time, there was serious conversation about demolishing the building and replacing it with a smaller, modern branch. But our team saw potential in its historic architecture and civic presence. By reconfiguring public and staff functions on the main level and mothballing the underused basement auditorium and mezzanine, we were able to preserve the original structure while making it more efficient and accessible.

Recognition and Legacy

This project received a Preservation and Design Award from the American Institute of Architects and marked the beginning of HBM’s long-standing dedication to public libraries. More than four decades later, Carnegie West still serves its neighborhood and remains a proud example of how thoughtful restoration can extend the life and relevance of historic public buildings.

A Note from the Founder

“There’s a story here about hope, promise, immigrants in America, and the role of public libraries in the past, present, and future.”— David Holzheimer

Interested in the building's history?You can learn more about the origins of Carnegie West Branch at clevelandhistorical.org/items/show/1002