LIBRARY

CORPORATE OFFICES & DISTRIBUTION CENTERS

OVERVIEW

An enclosed quiet space for uninterrupted work.


No talking and phones on silent. People come here to avoid distractions and focus for extended periods of time so functionality, comfort, and a sense of privacy are critical. The atmosphere is inviting and reflects the individual nature of the work space.

Design Goals

  • Locate inside the secure perimeter, near the open workspace with easy access for multiple teams.
  • Choose a space with exterior windows and ample daylight; preferably, in a location with views outside.
  • To avoid distraction and provide privacy, limit visibility and exposure to adjacent spaces. This should feel like a hideaway, not a fishbowl.
  • The furniture and layout should emphasize individual work postures. Do not use sofas, lounge furniture, or multi-person booths that encourage conversation.
  • The work table should be functional and comfortable for long stretches of work; ergonomic conference chairs, monitors, and ample space between seats are a must.
  • Use brand, finishes, accessories, millwork, and/or plants to curate an inviting atmosphere that feels different from the open workspace.
  • Phone rooms adjacent to the Library are recommended.


Jerry Rice, PHK, USA

Key Components

Library axonometric

Download PDF and BIM files below


Download Drawings BIM Folder
  1. Work table with privacy divider
  2. Monitor at each seat
  3. Height adjustable chairs
  4. Branding and casework for brand artifacts
  5. Behavioral sign
  6. Optional: Booths or study carrels


Area: 800 SF (74.3 SM)

Size: Length 25' (7.6m). Width: 32' (9.8m)

Capacity: 8-12

Branding

Libraries are an opportunity for bespoke branding. Let the overarching brand concept and story inform choices so that the narrative is embedded and connected to the rest of the workplace. This is a moment to feel the story rather than to read it overtly at a large scale; consider curated details to provide a level of intimacy. Branding should be integrated into the overall experience and set the tone for quiet focus.



Cost guardrail for brand investment: Medium level

REQUIRED SPECIFICATIONS

  • Clearances
    • 42" (107cm) min. clearance at table for seating
    • 36” (91.5cm) min. clearance for circulation without seating
    • 60” x 60” (152.5cm x 152.5cm) clear floor space on each side of all swing doors
  • Finishes

    Walls

    • Wall type 9: Gypsum wall to deck with insulation
    • Fully enclosed. Use standard wall types or approved alternate that meets acoustic requirements
    • Avoid interior glazing walls; if included, an opaque privacy screen is required for visual seperation (fixed curtains, millwork, window film, etc.)

    Ceiling 

    • Open with acoustic treatment, gypsum or ACT
  • Doors
    • Type: Swinging with 3 hinges
    • Size: 36” x 80” (91cm x 203cm) or off the shelf size without customization
    • Consider the sound of closer in a quiet environment. No lock
    • Seals at head and jambs, no gap at the door when adjacent to loud spaces
  • Furnishings

    Required

    • Work table: 28”-30” (71cm-76cm) height, 48"-60" (1220 -1525 mm) depth, 48"-60" (1220 -1525 mm) length per seat; power outlets for monitors and laptops; privacy divider 16"-24"h (40-60 cm); seat spacing min. 48" (1220 mm)
    • Ergonomic conference chairs for work table and study carrels: Adjustable height, flexible back, castors required; arms optional; no chairs with full sides (these are not appropriate for larger bodies)
    • Furniture and upholstery should follow local flammability standards

    Optional

    • Single-person booths; include power outlets
    • Study carrel; power include outlets

    Do not include

    • Sofas, lounge chairs, or multi-person booth
  • Acoustics
    • Space should have sound absorption - an obvious move to the quiet atmosphere when you enter. Outside noise should not be heard in the room
    • Noise criteria (NC): 30-35 dBA
    • Sound transmission class (STC): 50-55 dBA
  • Electrical

    Outlets

    • Easily accessible outlets at all seats

    Lighting

    • Lighting and other controls should be mounted between 44”-48” (110cm-122cm)
    • Range: 20-40 FC (215-430 LUX). Project team to determine the maximum setting within the range shown, based on building conditions and design intent
    • Controls: Daylight harvesting, on/off with sensor, or user dimmable
    • Fixtures: Hang suspended fixtures at 8’ (244cm) min. above the floor and 18” (46cm) min. below the ceiling. Coordinate locations with HVAC
    • Lighting can be an interesting design element. Use layers of lighting; lamps, feature lights, etc. Provide a lower level of FC range with task lamps that users can control for individual preference
  • Wayfinding
    • See Wayfinding section
    • ID sign with 'Library' and icon
    • Behavioral sign to set expectations such as no phone calls, no talking, etc.
  • Branding
    • All painted elements should be easy to clean and resistant to food spills or normal wear.  Low VOC paints should be used whenever possible.
    • Wallpaper should be non-vinyl wall covering such as DreamScape Terralon
    • Furniture painted with brand colors should be powdercoated for durability.
    • Custom furniture or upholstery should follow local flammability standards 
    • Custom lighting should be UL listed or follow local building requirements
    • Artifacts should be secured under glass or via tether
    • Graphics are typically high-quality prints or original art that is professionally framed
  • Technology
  • Safety and Security
    • For Workplace Security standards, contact your local Design or PM team. EHS standards can be found in Resources.

Examples

Image Of Campus Site

EHQ - Hilversum, Netherlands

Furniture and Layout

The furniture selection and how it's arranged cue that this room is meant for individual work. Monitors and screening elements on tables promotes this behavior.

Image Of Campus Site

Seoul, South Korea

Finishes and Color

This design creates an inviting feeling that encourages users to stay for an extended period. The use of color and finishes distinguishes the library from other work spaces and reinforces the brand story.

Image Of Campus Site

PHK - Beaverton, USA

Curated Objects

Displaying inspiring artifacts with relevant stories gives the library a sense of place. Aim for the right number of objects so shelves look curated, not cluttered. Valuable, breakable, and hazardous items need to be fixed to the shelf or wall for security.