hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami

faced with the challenge of sheltering an automated 24-hour library from hurricanes, the design utilizes an ambiguous, geometric steel frame wrapped entirely in high-velocity polycarbonate paneling.

Julio C. Perez edited by christina vergopoulou November 5, 2026 3 min

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89TH STUDIO ENGINEERS HURRICANE-RESISTANT KIOSK IN NORTH MIAMI

Designed by 89th Studio, Le Petite Bibliothèque is a 264-sqft civic shelter sited in North Miami’s Claude Pepper Park, adjacent to the Joe Celestin Recreation Center. Developed to house an automated 24-hour lending library kiosk manufactured by Ohio-based company Envisionware, whose standard modular prototypes had previously failed to meet South Florida’s High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) building codes, the project resolves severe wind-load compliance through a bespoke, climate-responsive envelope engineered to withstand Category 5 storms.

hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami - 1 — all images ©Julio C. Perez

MULTI-GABLED SILHOUETTE acts AS BILLBOARD AND LUMINOUS BEACON

The structure by 89th Studio is framed in structural steel with welded and mechanically fastened connections, forming a multi-gabled geometric silhouette that acts as a visual signifier within the park. To avoid the cost and weight of impact-resistant glass, the enclosure utilizes high-velocity-rated polycarbonate panels divided into two functional zones by a horizontal steel stiffener. The placement of this datum is calculated against lowest seasonal sun angles, blocking direct solar glare from the automated interface screens. The upper zone features opaque panels that reduce solar heat gain and double as interchangeable surfaces for public announcements, while the transparent lower perimeter provides direct sightlines into the kiosk to support passive security during unmonitored night hours. Fastened using standard Florida residential storm shutter track hardware to utilize local fabrication labor and reduce costs, the dual-performance skin reverses its function after dark, diffusing interior fixture light outward to establish a luminous profile across the park.

hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami - 2 — the building’s profile shifts from a series of distinct geometric shapes into a singular cohesive object

hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami - 3 — multi-wall polycarbonate paneling replaces conventional, heavy impact glass

resilient 24-hour-public-library-miami-89th-studio-designboom-1800-3 — the geometric silhouette of Le Petite Bibliothèque acts as a striking visual billboard

hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami - 4 — the geometric, multi-gabled roofline establishes a distinct silhouette against the surrounding palm trees

resilient 24-hour-public-library-miami-89th-studio-designboom-1800-2 — at night, the facade filters interior illumination outward to transform into a glowing beacon

hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami - 5 — designed to match the industrial neighboring facilities, the pavilion integrates into its civic context

hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami - 6 — the structure shelters automated material-handling mechanics and touchscreen interfaces

hurricane-proof polycarbonate wraps resilient 24-hour public library in miami - 7 — the pavilion provides continuous public access to municipal library books without on-site staffing

panels unfolded elevations wall section exploded axonometric

panels unfolded elevations wall section exploded axonometric

project info:

name: Le Petite Bibliothèque

architect: 89th Studio
lead designers: Julio Perez, Fausto Rivas

location: Claude Pepper Park, Miami

photographer: Julio C. Perez

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