Vestavia Hills Public Library

Vestavia Hills Public Library, the Library in the Forest, is the state’s first LEED gold-certified library. This 35,000 square-foot library blends environmental stewardship with lasting design. Surrounded by preserved woodlands, this award-winning civic space sets a benchmark for sustainability in public architecture.

DEX contributed a range of custom high-performance concrete elements throughout the facility:

• A monumental staircase with flat treads and integral non-slip grooves for safety and accessibility
• Custom bathroom vanities with oval integral sinks and concrete leg supports
• Durable terrazzo countertops designed to stand up to high public use

Each piece was cast using a custom DEXterra terrazzo mix, offering a refined finish with lasting strength—perfectly aligned with the project’s sustainable and community-driven mission.

Highlights:

• High-performance treads for grand public stair
• Terrazzo vanities and counters with integral sink detailing
• Alabama’s first LEED Gold–certified public library
• Completed in 2010 and still performing beautifully
• Surrounded by a 30-acre urban forest preserve

This project demonstrates how DEX’s architectural concrete can serve as a long-term, low-maintenance solution for civic architecture rooted in environmental values.