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Northampton Square Library, London Borough of Islington

Service: Town Planning | Sector: Education

The Challenge

The library building sits within a sensitive location. It is surrounded by three conservation areas and located in the vicinity of a number of designated heritage assets including the college building (listed Grade II), which lies to the west of the university building and a number of listed buildings on Ashby Street (odd no 11-23), Sebastian Street (no 22-25) and Northampton Square (no 26-39).

City University of London wanted a library that would form a focal point and provide a sense of arrival to students coming into the square. The internal spaces were equally important with views across the City and study space that would be flooded with light.

 

The Solution

Working with Coffey Architects, we led discussions with Islington Council to find a solution for achieving additional floorspace while respecting the heritage setting and host building.

An elongated elliptical form that successfully integrates with the host building and the surrounding historic context while providing high quality learning space for students.

 

The Results

An extension which is bold yet responds sensitively to the historical environment and the Square.

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