University Library Design Case Study: Boots Library 4th Floor
Opening the Book and Broadstock Office Furniture are working together on a 3-year project to transform Boots Library.
The 4th floor of Boots Library is the most heavily used computer space in the university. The brief was to raise the quality of the student experience while maintaining the required number of computers and supporting 24/7 opening.
New desk designs were developed for individual study and for collaborative working. Everything in the design layout was evaluated with the university - technical staff tested computer installation on the prototype; students tried out chair styles for comfort; cleaning supervisors were consulted on recycling bin stations.
Quality and attention to detail at all stages from concept to fit-out have created a high-impact and robust environment.
Challenge
- To make a pleasant study environment while maintaining density of provision
- To provide neat cable management for hard-wired pcs, security leashes and student access power sockets
Solution
- Curved desks are softer than uniform straight rows
- Co-ordinated colour scheme brings unity and zing
- Desk designs incorporate cable managements in end sections to leave desktops free and no trailing wires
Werneth High School
Romily, Stockport
Student feedback has been really positive, with comments such as ‘Refreshing’, ‘A real place you can work’ and ‘Fantastic! It’s so much better, a breath of fresh air.
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