Interface has supported Lancaster University in the refurbishment of its existing library building.
The global modular flooring manufacturer helped to meet a complex brief that called for a combination of striking design with ambitious sustainability targets.
The original library building was built for purpose in the 1960s and offered students a place to work and learn. However, as the requirements of the students changed over the years, the library needed modernising to accommodate new ways of working – and to house the 40,000 students who now use the space every week.
Following an extension that was added in 1997, the library also needed a more fluid design to connect the two distinct spaces. As a result the University wanted to give the space a complete overhaul, merging traditional library services with areas for interactive and informal learning - as well as private study.
Sustainability was a key focus when choosing products for the design. The University wanted to use materials that had a positive environmental impact, supporting its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint by 80 per cent by 2020.
Anna Cockman, Facilities Development Manager at Lancaster University, said: “Sustainability is part of the very fabric of what we do at Lancaster University. In 2005 we set a goal to ensure that any new buildings on campus met the BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ standard, and any major refurbishments met BREEAM’s ‘Excellent’ criteria.
“However, getting old buildings to perform to such high environmental standards isn’t easy – and the library was no exception. Every part of the design and build process needed to be carefully considered and the products specified were a key part of this.”
Sheppard Robson, award winning architectural practice and interior designers, developed an imaginative design scheme which used Interface flooring to help marry the library’s two distinct buildings, while also meeting the University’s sustainability goals - 10,000m2 of Interface’s Urban Retreat 501 skinny planks collection was specified in a range of colourways, creating a striking design in the four storey library.
Colourways in Granite, Charcoal, Stone and Grass were used to surround a live Ficas tree, giving a beautiful courtyard effect which can be seen from all floors of the library through a central atrium.
Commenting on the project, Marie Leyland, Interior Designer at Sheppard Robson – said: “We’ve worked closely with Interface on several projects in the past so already knew of the company’s dedication to combining striking design with sustainable manufacturing practices. As it’s made with 100 per cent recycled nylon, Interface’s Urban Retreat 501 collection was a perfect choice for the library.
“We also wanted to incorporate natural features into the space to bring a sense of tranquillity to students studying there, and Interface was able to offer a nature-inspired flooring solution that helped us to do this.”
Inspired by the principles of biophilic design, a concept based on people’s instinctive love of nature, the Urban Retreat 501 range is evocative of dense woodland.
Speaking about the use of Urban Retreat 501 in the library, Marie commented: “The nature-inspired influences captured in the flooring tiles really help bring the library’s design concept to life. By surrounding the live Ficas tree in the atrium with Urban Retreat 501 skinny planks, we were able to create dynamic patterns which complement the vibrant green colours beautifully.”
Anna concluded: “We’re so happy with the finished result. Working with manufacturers that mirror our sustainability values has allowed us to create a flexible and inviting space where students can feel inspired and motivated to learn – while minimising any negative impact on the environment.”
