Keep up to date with the current trends in library design.
The library is an old institution that’s constantly evolving, as technology, tastes, and trends change. They are constantly changing as useful spaces for staff, patrons, and entire communities. Changes in technology and architecture often influence library design trends. Read on to learn about some of the exciting innovations in design trends sweeping libraries around the world.
Open Spaces Are In
An emphasis on light and open spaces is occurring in building design for new and already existing libraries. Trends involve healthier habits, an emphasis on nature, and overall wellness. Natural light has been shown to improve our health, meaning many different architects and designers are putting indoor focus on the outdoors. There are a few ways through design to help achieve a brighter space by installing larger windows and having fewer walls. These few adjustments to your space can make it feel larger for staff and guests.
Flexible Spaces Are Key
Rather than having set areas blocked off with walls, which can prevent natural light from truly pervading a space and creating that light natural feel, opt for multipurpose open spaces with fewer tall dividing walls. Choose to install modular furniture, mobile service counters, lower shelving, and laptop or iPad dispensers. These items give your library a more modern feel than having large computer setups and service counters.
Incorporate Spaces For Collaboration
The old school library of the past where no one is allowed to speak above a whisper still has its place. It is a necessary for those who love to learn or need to study, but a modern library must do more than that. In order to be a community space, a library must empower collaboration and teamwork. There are a few ways to create spaces like this in any library. It can be done with demountable partitions or freestanding lightweight screens and partitions. Moveable walls are another excellent choice providing acoustic separation and privacy that is flexible in a space that might not have had that otherwise.
Library Design Trends in Furniture
Trends come and go and change, many due to the needs of those who use them. Trends reflect changes in taste but also needs. Sit to stand tables, multi use furniture, study pods, high backed lounge seating, and collaboration stations are now used widely in libraries.
Library Furniture from Edwards & Hill
Are you ready for an office design that fosters productivity in your and your employees? Edwards & Hill can help you design and install the perfect office design for your facility. Edwards & Hill is a leading office, education, medical, and hospitality furniture provider with quality design and installation services for any style or scale. If you are ready to get your healthcare design started, contact us online or give us a call at 301-317-4250. For more furniture design tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Flickr, YouTube, and Google+.