Wilmette Public Library

Supporting programming, community events, and learning with library lawn and garden spaces

The Wilmette Public Library is a cornerstone of community life, and its outdoor spaces now reflect that role. Through a series of collaborative workshops, Teska worked with the Library Board, staff, and Wilmette residents to shape a design rooted in the library's character and its commitment to the people it serves.

At the center, a social gathering lawn hosts community events and performances, framed by native gardens. A garden walk winds through native plantings and interpretive signage, and flexible seating — including traditional benches, seating pebbles, and a custom reading nook— invites visitors to settle in with a book or a friend. An enhanced front entry, custom signage, paving, furnishings, plantings, lighting, and a snowmelt system welcome visitors year-round and carry the library's role as a community hub beyond its walls.

• HIGHLIGHTS

  • Design shaped through collaborative workshops with Library Board, staff, and residents

  • Central lawn for community events and performances

  • Garden walk with native plantings and interpretive signage

  • Flexible seating: benches, seating pebbles, and a custom reading nook

  • Enhanced front entry with custom signage and paving

  • New lighting, furnishings, and plantings

  • Snowmelt system for year-round access

“We’re so grateful to have Teska in our corner — their positive impact in our community continues to flourish!”

- Anthony Auston, Wilmette Library Director

SERVICES

Placemaking
Engagement
Urban Design
Landscape Architecture

CLIENT

Wilmette Public Library

PARTNERS

Gewalt Hamilton Associates