MOUNT PLEASANT, NC—On October 23, 2024, CPL joined Cabarrus County officials and area residents to celebrate the grand opening of the new Library and Active Living Center. This 20,000 sq. ft. building marks a significant investment in the community, acting as a dynamic “third space” that blends educational services with recreational amenities for people of all ages.
The interior invites exploration; visitors are welcomed into a light and airy central corridor that serves as the building’s “spine,” linking together an array of engaging program areas. Highlights include an expansive library with study zones and cozy reading nooks, a technology hub, a game room, a full-service catering kitchen and fitness studios.
Flexibility was a primary design consideration, with multipurpose rooms and a business center ready to accommodate the community’s evolving needs.
Nestled beside the scenic new Virginia Foil Park at 1111 N. Washington St, the center seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor experiences, drawing inspiration from the park’s natural beauty. Visitors can easily transition to open-air activities, with convenient access to ballfields, walking trails, playgrounds, pavilions, concessions and a covered patio for peaceful reading and relaxation.
“We understood the existing center provided spaces for community, wellness and learning, and that this new, intergenerational facility should build on that, guided by a comprehensive feasibility study and public input from kickoff to closeout,” said CPL Vice President Rachel Nilson, AIA, NCARB. “It’s more than just a building—it represents a shared vision for Cabarrus County and Mount Pleasant’s future.”
As Architect of Record, CPL provided architectural, engineering and interior design services, working alongside 720 Design (Library Design) and Edifice (Construction Manager) to bring this enriching landmark to life.
The project which sits at the heart of Mount Pleasant, officially opened its doors on October 23, coinciding with the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
About CPL
Founded in 1975, CPL is a 500+ person multi-disciplined architecture, engineering and planning firm offering inspiring design services and enriching communities in 24 cities across seven states. CPL specializes in the Community, Healthcare, Higher Education, and K-12 Education market sectors – providing architectural, interior design, civil engineering, buildings and structural engineering, planning, landscape architecture and 3D/virtual design services to a host of public and private clients.