Overview
Bridlington North Library has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment designed to maximise space, enhance functionality, and create a light, modern environment while preserving the building’s original character. The upgraded layout, new lighting, and refreshed furniture collectively improve the overall user experience, making the library more welcoming, inclusive, and adaptable to community needs.
Project Objectives
The refurbishment forms part of East Riding Libraries’ wider commitment to creating inspiring, accessible spaces that support:
- Lifelong learning
- Digital access
- Health and wellbeing
- Community engagement
The goal was to transform the library into a multifunctional hub for education, creativity, and connection.
Key Design Features
Reconfigured Layout & Modernisation
The library has been thoughtfully remodelled to make more effective use of the available space, creating a more open, accessible, and inclusive environment. The introduction of upgraded shelving and a contemporary furniture specification has enhanced both functionality and user comfort, providing flexible and attractive spaces for reading, study, and community use. A carefully considered new lighting scheme and complimentary furniture layout has significantly improved visibility throughout the library, while also enhancing the overall character and ambience of the space. Together, these improvements deliver a bright, modern, and welcoming environment that responds to contemporary library needs, whilst remaining sympathetic to and preserving the established character and architectural qualities of the building.
Junior Library & Sensory Space
The junior library has been relocated to the front of the building, creating a more accessible and engaging environment for children and families.
A bespoke sensory room has been introduced, designed to support children’s development through interactive and calming experiences. This is complemented by a custom-built mobile sensory trolley, which:
- Provides practical storage for sensory resources
- Offers flexibility to be used throughout the library
Health & Wellbeing Zone
The Health and Wellbeing Zone has been thoughtfully designed as a separate, dedicated space that complements the library’s wider inclusive offering. Distinct from the sensory pod, this adaptable area is enclosed by finned acoustic screens that can be opened or closed to provide varying levels of privacy, depending on the activity taking place. Whether used for quiet reflection, one-to-one support sessions, wellbeing activities or small group discussions, the space offers a calm, comfortable environment that promotes privacy, focus and overall wellbeing while remaining seamlessly integrated within the library.
Junior Library & Sensory Space
- Designed to support a wide range of SEN (Special Educational Needs)
- Creates an inclusive, safe, and engaging environment for all students
- Incorporates quiet zones and stimulating areas to suit different needs
- Supports both calm regulation and interactive learning experiences
Bespoke & Customisable Design
- Fully bespoke solutions tailored to each school’s requirements
- We adapted one of our pods to create an interactive sensory environment, which has become a key feature of the space.
- Customisable features including:
- Designed and manufactured a bespoke sensory trolley specifically for the project, providing a flexible and accessible storage solution for sensory resources to support inclusive learning and wellbeing activities throughout the library.
Flexibility & Functionality
- Mobile trolley solutions for easy access to sensory resources
- Allows staff to adapt the space throughout the day
- Supports multi-use functionality within one area
- Designed to evolve with changing student needs
Key Benefits
Encourages inclusive learning experiences for all users
Promotes wellbeing, independence, and engagement
Enhances focus, comfort, and accessibility
Flexible Community Space
At the rear of the library, a flexible area has been created to host community groups and events. This space includes:
- A relaxed sofa seating area
- Adaptable layouts for different activities
The area is enriched with striking ‘living wall’ panels, which:
- Introduce natural greenery into the space
- Help absorb carbon dioxide
- Contribute to a more sustainable and calming environment
Biophilic Design Elements
A standout feature of the refurbishment is the integration of living moss panels. Mounted to the rear of mobile shelving, these panels:
- Provide a distinctive, wellbeing-focused backdrop
- Add texture and colour to the space
- Strengthen the connection to nature through biophilic design
Outcome
The refurbishment successfully transforms Bridlington North Library into a vibrant, inclusive space that caters to a wide range of users. Whether visitors are attending a health check, engaging in sensory play, participating in community events, or simply enjoying a book, the library now offers a more dynamic and supportive environment.
Client Testimonial
Councillor Nick Coultish, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said
“We’re delighted to announce the reopening of Bridlington North Library – a cherished space for local residents that continues to serve as a vital hub for learning, creativity, and community connection.
The recent upgrades have truly transformed the library into a modern, welcoming environment, designed with a focus on delivering an inclusive and exceptional experience for all visitors. We’re confident that everyone will enjoy exploring the refreshed space and all it has to offer.”
