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July 10th 2023
At West Hill Primary School in Cannock, Staffordshire, our design team set to work to create a library space design within a former nursery setting. With 450 pupils and higher than average deprivation, the school needed a vibrant, engaging space where children could explore a range of books. To promote a love for reading and reading for pleasure, we wanted to include classroom reading corners with lots of space on the bookcases for schools books and study tables for classroom activities.
"We wanted a space where children can come and develop a love of reading," explains the school's deputy headteacher, Elizabeth Lloyd. Since the school library will have a rotating stock of picture and chapter books, we came up with a design that showcases the available books and links to the school's existing outdoor reading den. Find out how we did it below!
Nature-themed soft seating added the finishing touch to this multifunctional library space in Staffordshire
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Interior designer Q&A |
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Helena Thornton | Interior Designer Helena graduated from Birmingham City University with a BA (Hons) in Interior Design. With a creative flair and an interest in colour and style trends, Helena also has a passion for photography and graphics. She is very excited to be working in children’s library design, creating interiors to inspire young readers. |
How did you create an effective multifunctional library design space?I used 84cm double-sided Apto shelves to create low height partitions and zoned areas. As the space is multifunctional, it was a priority to ensure a smooth flow throughout and to keep access clear between classrooms and the exterior door, which leads onto the playground. I wanted it to be an uncluttered, organised space and make the library area clear to engage students. The challenge was creating a cohesive design whilst retaining a lot of existing furniture. How did you choose the theme and colour scheme?It's a large, open, multifunctional space, and there was a lot of visual stimulation and contrasting finishes. So I chose a colour palette that complements existing wooden finishes and colours but doesn't overstimulate the eye. The school also wanted to incorporate natural elements, as there is a door that leads onto the playground where they have an outdoor reading den. The nature-themed soft seating we put in the library is great as it can be used for the classroom reading corner and be used outdoors too. What about book storage?The school needed a lot of picture book storage, especially for large picture books. So I used our single-sided picture book display unit, which is tiered and can accomodate different-sized books in a front-facing display. It's perfect for EYFS and KS1 students who find selecting a book more exciting when they can choose by cover. Since the school receives a rotated selection of books from a charity, they wanted a specific unit so these titles can be highlighted throughout the year. For this, we chose a focus unit.
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