Rowan Preparatory School
March 26th 2025
Rowan Preparatory School needed two new library spaces to inspire and nurture a love of reading for pleasure in every pupil. Both needed to be welcoming and calming spaces, and as a significant investment for the school, both needed to be standout and futureproof.
A key requirement was that the new libraries' layout should encourage the pupils to try reading books by a range of authors, and from a range of genres. The school wanted spaces that were both beautiful and functional, and with the libraries split across two sites, that had a distinctive look and feel to connect the two.
They also asked us to incorporate 'working spaces' for the Librarian to use when cataloguing, weeding and covering and repairing books, separate from the spaces that would be used by pupils.
Our design
Working with these requirements, Senior Interior Designer Helena created a functional and flexible library design, bringing the outdoors in with an attractive nature theme that captured the school's imagination right from the start. The realistic woodland backdrop draws on the wellbeing benefits of the outdoors, helping to create the sense of calm the school were looking for. There's even a cosy reading den!
They knew early on that they wanted the main library to feature a rowan tree, to honour the school name and identity, so that's exactly what we did.
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 Unique nature-themed wall vinyls, designed by Peters |
| The Rowan tree makes an attractive focal point |
Functional and flexible
The design utilises modern library furniture, including adaptable bookshelves from our Apto shelving range to provide the flexibility the school were seeking. This means additional shelves can be added at a later date, or existing shelves reconfigured as required. The school opted to extend the static shelf space around the edge of both rooms, choosing adaptable rather than moveable units to maximise space.
Staff, parents and children are all thrilled with their new library!
Apto shelving allows for a mix of front-facing and spine-facing display
"What we achieved with Peters exceeded all expectations.
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Enhance your library space with nature-themed beanbags and soft seating
Why choose a nature theme?Perfect for schools who want to connect with their surrounding natural environments, or interior design for inner-city libraries with limited access to green spaces, our nature range is inspired by the outdoors.
Before: 3D CAD design by Peters' interior designers |
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Designing libraries: start your school's transformation today
Work with our Interior Designers to take advantage of our library design service and realise your vision for a new school library or reading area. From first renders to complete installation, we'll be with you every step.
Book a free consultation and 3D CAD design to start your design transformation journey.
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