Springwood Library

Design concept – “Open the Box” – from introspective to connected spaces.

The renovation harmonises with architectural language of the original building, and the adjacent community hub, emphasising box-like protrusions and indentations particularly in connecting spaces between inside and outside.

Timber cladding and changes in floor colour generate a box-like effect in the meeting room between the community foyer and the library, as well as around new stairwell, lift, and viewing alcove along the south. These framed views connect to surrounding views, hub and street.

This idea is replicated in the central feature screen here the design features a playful arrange of colourful boxes framing objects and books, loosely arranged to enable views to collection and seating areas beyond. Boxes held by posts, like tree trunks are extended by a reflective ceiling and leaf-like pattern carpet create a reverse canopy; doubling the visual height of the central area. The Service desk, quick pick collection are visible from every access point while the reverse side houses computer and laptop stations, copier and borrowing kiosks.

The magazine zone, is anchored by a 4.5 metre marble table, veiny like the floor, with leather chairs and oversized lamps in copper and cream. Natural materials create an inviting warm and luxurious feel, visible from the street.  

The Childrens area combined these box displays with joyful inclusion of branch like light fittings and lit bird lamps.

Cube like yellow meeting rooms in customer service area bring light to darker areas in the lower ground.

The warm natural palate is extended to the local history area with bespoke joinery and large veined tables.  The central table arrangements allow supervision and the gathering of large groups.

The multiple entries allows for personal way-finding from 2 street frontages, with staff visible from entrances.