The Ruth Gorse Academy Library, Leeds
A space that promotes inclusiveness and wellbeing for students in order to promote peaceful study, reading for pleasure and careers support
The Brief
When it opened its doors for the first time in September 2016, the Ruth Gorse Academy was the largest free school in the country accommodating up to 1580 students. The Academy Trust has an ambitious vision, for the building to act as a catalyst for further regeneration in the southern central area of Leeds.
The Ruth Gorse Academy, as its central mission, focuses on ensuring that young people enjoy access to a truly inspirational secondary academy and has been graded Outstanding by Ofsted. The new library and careers center was an integral part of that mission.
The Solution
Upon award, the FG Library & Learning design team worked closely with the The Ruth Gorse Academy team to bring to fruition designs to accommodate the different aspects of the library environment.
The design plan encompassed a welcome reception and large library facility combined with a dedicated careers support space for staff and students. Along with library shelving, study desks, soft breakout seating and private acoustic pods for one to one and small team meetings. Camira 'Quest' fabric was specified throughout for all upholstery - Camira's partnership with the SEQUEL INITIATIVE to combat marine plastic pollution. The fabric is 100% recycled using post-consumer plastic waste.
Welcome Reception Desk for two staff members. Small footprint with storage.
The library space was created to enhance a sense of nature and calm. Latitude wall shelving (anthracite steel frame) with a woodland wall mural and integrated bespoke 'hideaway' seating pod in Camira Quest fabric. Captivating display, mobile Element units are positioned through the space to provide front cover book display and table top space for feature books.
Read more about FG Library and Learning's work on The Ruth Gorse Academy library
