Waxhaw, NC

Union County Southwest Regional Library

Public Library/Community Center

New Construction

2025 Outstanding Project

This post was originally published on this site.

Designed by Little, the Union County Southwest Regional Library brings vital services to an underserved region of Union County, North Carolina, strategically positioned between Waxhaw, Weddington, and Wesley Chapel. More than a library, the 21,000 sq. ft. facility is a dynamic civic hub for learning, connection, and creativity. Thoughtfully sited on a wooded parcel, the building’s design emphasizes a strong relationship to nature with expansive views, natural light, and a courtyard anchoring the circulation spine.

Programming was shaped by robust community engagement, including three public town halls, ensuring inclusive spaces for all ages from flexible story time zones to a maker lab, STEAM areas, and a large community meeting room. Since opening in April 2024, the library has welcomed over 10,500 visitors monthly, issued 4,000+ new accounts, and hosted 2,000 study room bookings.

Phase I was designed with future growth in mind, with infrastructure ready for a seamless expansion to 35,000 square feet. The project stands as a testament to the power of community-informed, sustainable design and Little’s commitment to lifelong learning environments.

Architect

Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, Inc.

615 S. College St., Ste. 1600
Charlotte, NC 28202
littleonline.com
Kelly Gordon, AIA, CDT, LEED AP BD+C, NCARB, Senior Project Manager
704-561-7455

Design Team

  • Tomas Jiménez-Eliaeson, Design Principal
  • Carrie Estock, Senior Interior Designer
  • Kelly Gordon, Senior Project Manager
  • Mark Van Sickle, Land Development Technical Principal
  • Thomas Carlson-Reddig, Principal-in-Charge

Owner/Client

Union County
Waxhaw, NC
Nina Chaffin, Library Director

Key Stats

  • Capacity of Students/Occupants: 500
  • Size of Site: 9.75 acres
  • Gross Area of Bldg./Space: 21,000 gsf
  • Project Cost: $14,700,000
  • Occupation Date: 4/1/2024

Award Issue

Fall 2025
— Outstanding Project

Photography

©Sean Busher Imagery

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