Bridgeton Library, Glasgow
The iconic Olympia cinema site in Bridgeton has been restored to its former glory with the new library as the focal point of this regeneration initiative.
Vitality and magic
With the confidence of the library staff and partners, thedesignconcept pulled out all the stops and delivered a library like no other.
The first ever BFI Mediatheque in Scotland has been installed here, enabling the public to discover and enjoy the British Film Institute’s National archive. To create the perfect viewing experience we installed high-backed acoustic booths with integrated screens and headphones.
The children’s section is a creative masterpiece in itself (if we say so ourselves!). With permission from children’s laureate Julia Donaldson, we used her popular Gruffalo images as a wall graphic and continued this theme through to the bespoke mini furniture.
We were able to create smaller reading alcoves within the larger library space, using curved shelving with built-in seating on the inner face. These featured graphic backdrops detailing the history of the building, allowing library users to reflect on the historic relevance of the building they are sitting in.
With its bustling cafe, intuitive furnishings, friendly staff, learning centre and all the technological bells and whistles, Bridgeton Library has injected vitality and magic back into the community and local area.