Designing Spaces with StackMap as an Aid

At a public library in Massachusetts, librarians used StackMap to visualize spatial design projects. We spoke with them about how StackMap facilitates a more coherent planning process when collaborating with architects.

We’re using StackMap in a space planning exercise. We are currently working with architects to try to figure out how to best use the space. We’re using StackMap with them to understand where things are now, how much space [collections] are taking up, and how we can envision doing it better.

We did a vision lab with the architects who took library leaders and people who work in various places through a series of exercises to help generate ideas. Specifically, to look at how much space the collections take up and where they can be the most useful. I’ve already given one of the architects a spreadsheet that we use for StackMap as it shows the current state of our collection. It’s like walking through the library and looking at the shelves to see what we’ve built — all through a spreadsheet. It’s something that I can easily export to somebody across the city. We wouldn’t have that ability without StackMap. It gives you a visualized perspective. It’s a powerful tool that way.