Overview
Ellis Guilford School, a secondary school in Nottingham first reached out to find some ideas on their new library, which at the time was their staff room and the library was being moved from upstairs. Following an initial design meeting for the new library, we were also introduced to the prospect of another study space as well as an outdoor seating area, all of which became part of the same project.
Summary of Brief
The project transformed several existing school spaces into age-appropriate, functional learning environments with a cohesive, contemporary feel. The new library was redesigned as a flexible, multi-purpose space supporting both independent and group study, featuring modern shelving, varied seating, and an optimised layout for visibility and flow. The adjoining device room was updated with flexible furniture and tech-ready areas to enhance digital learning.
A new KS4 study space, the EGScellence Centre, was created to offer a mature, university-inspired environment. The layout blends collaborative zones, modular soft seating and a lecture-style teaching area, unified by a calm palette of oak, grey and muted tones to support student focus and independence.
Design Challenges – Library Design
The main challenge was delivering all required functions within a smaller footprint. Reduced shelving capacity, tighter circulation and strict category placements meant making full use of wall space – including shelving around a pillar – while still allowing space for group study and soft seating. Achieving clear staff sightlines with a curved desk and complex room shape added further difficulty. Architectural changes like sealing an old doorway and adding sliding doors had to be incorporated, alongside a fixed layout in the device room and a prescribed school colour palette.
Design Challenges – KS4 Space
The curved gallery, central pillar and large capacity requirements demanded creative use of modular seating, careful desk arrangement and smart circulation planning. With no physical partitions, zoning relied entirely on furniture orientation. Multiple seating types needed to be integrated cohesively, and curved shelving required secure fixing while maintaining usable heights.
Outcomes
The redesigned library now offers a flexible, age-appropriate learning hub that maximises a smaller space through efficient layout, balanced furniture choices and improved circulation. The device room now better supports digital learning with adaptable tables and additional storage.
The KS4 study space delivers a sophisticated, future-focused environment with dynamic modular seating, clearly defined study areas and high-capacity desking suitable for whole-group teaching. A unified oak and grey palette enhances the professional atmosphere and supports a range of learning styles.
Feedback
“I can’t quite believe that this time last year the project wasn’t even a concept, certainly not in my mind. It’s amazing what can be achieved and with your help and support, which you provided at the very early stages, you gave us that vision. And our children love it already.”
“You have made this whole operation so much easier. It has been a pleasure to work with you, and the fittings / furniture are top notch.”
— Katherine Davison, School Librarian
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