Redefining local space with mindfulness and movement: a design approach for an urban literary centre

Abstract

This practicum explores a reimagination of the public library typology as a multi-use literary centre to become a beneficial destination for the urban community. While libraries have been around for millennia, their use in contemporary society has shifted, requiring them to expand their programmes and present greater adaptability. It is a beneficial endeavour to rethink how the public library can evolve to become a more utilised place for city locals and visitors. The purpose of this research is to analyse how interior design can enhance the public library to promote urban development, facilitate community connections, and improve individual wellbeing and experience through researched design initiatives.

Theories and design strategies will be analysed, including social infrastructure, adaptable mixed-use, and holistic design, public space and social placemaking theories, as well as salutogenic design theory that examines sense of place, and biophilic design. Alongside the books, a design will be implemented to create spaces for several activities. These consist of a reader’s café and garden, gift shop, events area, galleries, multipurpose classroom, collaborative spaces, music rooms, and a wellness studio. This research will be implemented to create a model for a new vision of the public library within an existing building in the City of Winnipeg, ideally inspiring a brighter future for library design.