King’s College School Memorial Library
The opportunity to re-design the Kings College School Memorial Library was an exciting challenge. The Memorial Library was built in 1917 and is a jewel in the school’s estate. The new library concept is sympathetic to the architectural features and seamlessly marries the historical character with the practicalities of a functioning school library. The new design of the Memorial Library gives a nod to the building fabric by reflecting the materials used in the school.
We designed each piece of furniture down to the joints working with skilled British joiners and cabinet makers to create a design aesthetic that balances the history of the space with the new and practical. The bookcase design is a simple uncompromising box-like design that allows for the librarian to move the pieces around like Lego as areas grow in the library.
The muted blue/green upholstered seating complements the original historical colours used on the stunning barrel-vaulted ceiling that arches over the library. The design is grounded by a textured grey carpet inspired by nature with a subtle organic design that creates a serene scheme echoing the comfortable and relaxed aesthetic of the library interior. This project was a joy to design and we love seeing the calming effect it has had on the students while they happily study.