Library Extension and Refurbishment
The provision of a single-storey extension to the existing three-storey library and the remodelling of the existing areas was the basis of this project.
Integration of all areas to create a cohesive identity was part of the client’s brief. The extension was to be used as a study area and had to incorporate the librarian’s office and an IT Resource room leaving most of the existing areas for book display and storage and creating a quiet reading area on the second floor. Corals were provided in part of the existing ground floor space for private study.
A fully detailed design with site visit duties was undertaken by Worldwise Limited.
Maximum use of daylight was achieved by the use of rooflights and windows on the perimeter. The extensive roof area created by the need to compliment the design of the original building could have caused an oppressive atmosphere were not for the adoption of suspended indirect linear luminaires that create a soft and airy feel by bouncing light off the ceiling as well as providing a direct lighting component. The use of CIBSE Category 2 diffusers on the luminaires assisted with glare control on computer screens and good levels of vertical illumination, so important for the display of books.
Dado trunking was installed in the IT Suite, office and in study Corals to contain data and power cables.
The existing boiler plant was used to feed an underfloor heating circuit in the extension. The existing radiator circuit was adapted elsewhere and tubular column radiators provide the dual role of semi-transparent wall and balustrade on the balcony-style openings at first floor level – a device successfully adopted by the architect to visually join areas together. This solution suited all parties as wall space was at a premium for bookcases.
A platform lift and power assisted doors were provided to ensure accessibility to the library at both levels.
