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Hounslow
£250,000 to £499,999
Nellist Blundell Flint Partnership
1 Derwent House , Arden Rd , Ealing , London , W13 8RN , United Kingdom
The project for Osterley Library is part of Hounslow Libraries Refurbishment Programme which included the remodelling of the existing layout, re-roofing works and structural repair. The library has been fully refurbished with a new internal layout that makes a best use of the existing floor space available. It clearly defines reading area, IT, lending space, children and teen area. The existing heating system has been replaced with radiant ceiling units which sensibly improves the thermal performance with the additional advantage to provide more wall usable space than the traditional system. The obsolete boiler has been replaced with a new condensing boiler. Whenever possible the design team had attempted to rely on natural light and ventilation rather then using mechanical units. An inclusive design approach has been adopted in order to facilitate the access of disable person and to provide a better experience for the general public as well.The main entrance has been moved and a glass/steel canopy structure installed beside of it. The new ramp with tactile paving surfaces elements opens up the space visually to make the access more inclusive, acknowledging the different people needs. The Local Community has benefited greatly from the new scheme. The design team had engaged conversation with the librarians throughout all the design process and after completion in order to fully understand and implement the users? needs and requirements.