Project: John Harvard Library
Location: Borough High St, London SE1
Size: 700sqm
Cost: £1.4m
Client: Southwark Council
Architect: Alexi Marmot & Associates
Completed: October 2009

Lottery funded refurbishment of an existing public library building, with new glazed façade & entrance extension, to provide an enhanced high street presence to passers-by. Southwark Council is developing a number of their libraries to make them more community focused, integrate new technology and provide a much improved environment. This project integrates a small cafe with the self service and popular book facilities to create a more informal and relaxed place designed to attract many more local workers, schools and residents. eCAD was employed by the architects (AMA) to develop & produce all construction documentation for the entire refurbishment. This included a bespoke double glazed façade in stainless steel frame, with a cantilevered glass canopy over the entrance doors. The integration of services distribution through new specialist curved GRG ceilings, and the addition of new rooflights & enhanced lighting. Since re-opening in November 2009, the project has been described by the UK’s Culture Minister as “a stunning exemplar” in library design, and visitor numbers have more than doubled.

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