Cary Graphics Arts Press Lawson Center

Rochester Institute of Technology - Henrietta, New York

The RIT Library includes the Cary Graphics Press, which is the publishing arm of the Melbert B. Cary, Jr. Graphics Arts Collection. The collection is a renowned resource for those studying printing history, bookbinding, typography, calligraphy papermaking, and book illustration.

The space makes a strong visual statement and includes an exhibit/reception area that displays several paintings from Kimberly-Clark’s Graphic Communications Through the Ages series, a small meeting space, book displays, a small sales counter, two private offices and a fulfillment and work room.

It was important to communicate the form, function and spirit of the golden rectangle as it pertains to book binding, printing and the space itself. The ratio of the golden rectangle used in art and design suggests a natural balance between symmetry and asymmetry. Incorporating the derived logarithmic spiral known as the Fibonacci spiral further explores and enhances the underlying foundation of this space and the fundamentals of book binding.