Awards

Columbia University Wins IIDA Interior Design Award for Li Lu Law Library

June 02, 2026
The third floor of the Li Lu Law Library at Jerome Greene Hall, featuring a large reading room on the right with people sitting at long tables, gray chairs and coffee tables on the left wall, and a staircase leading to the upper floor.

Columbia University was recognized by the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) with an Interior Design Award for the Li Lu Law Library in Jerome Greene Hall. 

The award was received in the “Academic Libraries – Over 30,000 Square Feet” category as part of the 10th Biennial American Library Association (ALA)/IIDA Library Interior Design Awards, which honors excellence and innovation in library interior design. 

Designed by Perkins Eastman with input from students, faculty, and staff, the Li Lu Law Library fosters learning, collaboration, and community. Comprised of 55,000 square feet across three floors, the library was completely transformed and modernized to feature an open, light-filled design; contemporary furniture, fixtures, and aesthetics; and a variety of spaces to support study and collaboration needs. 

A view of the two-story reading room from the upper level, which features extended table seating with blue chairs, and wooden accents on the walls.

The Li Lu Library offers than more 600 study seats – a 60 percent increase in seating capacity compared to the previous library. A signature two-story reading room provides extended table space and individual seating with views spanning Revson and Ancell Plazas. Additional spaces include more than 20 fully enclosed group study rooms with state-of-the-art technology and flexible seating options; open seating at the David J. Greenwald Lounge; and over 60 single-student carrels in the Brad and Kathy Smith Reading Room.

Single-student carrels on the left side of the Brad and Kathy Smith Reading Room, with bookcases on the right side.

In line with Columbia’s Plan 2030 sustainability goals, the project earned LEED® Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Among its sustainable design and construction elements are energy-efficient HVAC equipment, low energy lighting, locally sourced materials, and bright, open design elements that encourage health and wellbeing in the space. 

Founded in 1994, IIDA is a global professional association that supports design professionals, industry affiliates, educators, students, firms and their clients. IIDA advocates for advancements in education, design excellence, legislation, leadership, accreditation, and community outreach to promote the Interior Design profession.

To learn more about the Li Lu Law Library, visit the Columbia Law School website.

Tags
Planning and Capital Project Management