Transforming a Community Space and Local Facility
Transforming a Community Space and Local Facility
PROJECT DETAILS
Duration
12 Weeks
Location
Emersons Green, Bristol
Value
£100,000
Expertise
Principal Contractor
Sector
Local Authority
Emersons Green Library in Bristol is a well-loved local facility, serving as a vital hub for learning, creativity, and community engagement. In 2024, South Gloucestershire Council set out to reimagine and modernise the library’s interior to better reflect the needs of its users, particularly its younger visitors.
We were appointed as Principal Contractor, working closely with MDA Consulting as project managers and Pritchard Barnes Architects, who developed the vision for a playful yet functional layout. The project was designed to take place over two 6-week phases, minimising disruption while transforming the library into a more welcoming and versatile space.
Client Requirements
The aim was to deliver a fresh, inspiring space with dedicated zones for all age groups, with a particular emphasis on creating a bespoke children’s reading area.
How we Helped
Our team began in July 2024, with phase one focused on reconfiguring the internal layout to accommodate the new children’s reading room. This involved removing an internal wall and constructing a new partition to create a defined dedicated space. With underfloor heating beneath the existing concrete slab, our team used thermal imaging technology to precisely locate the heating pipework. This enabled us to safely drill fixings for the partition without causing damage to the building’s heating.
Phase two involved structural modifications to the library’s external façade, forming a new opening to install a 3-metre by 1-metre arched window – a striking architectural addition to the building. Designed by IG Lintels and finished with carefully detailed canted brickwork to match the existing soldier course, the window now serves as a beautiful focal point, flooding the children’s area with natural light, and blending seamlessly into the original brickwork.
Keeping the Library Open was a key Priority
One of the most important aspects of the project was to ensure the library could remain open and operational throughout the refurbishment. Careful coordination and detailed planning were essential to minimise disruption to staff and visitors. All noisy works were scheduled outside of library opening hours, while general construction activities were carried out with the utmost care to ensure a safe and respectful environment. Temporary internal hoardings were installed to clearly separate the work zones from public areas, allowing essential library services to continue without interruption.
Inside the Main Library Area
Alongside the structural improvements, the project also included upgrades to lighting and power systems, the installation of new flooring throughout, and a full redecoration to refresh the entire interior. The chosen palette and materials modernise the space while making it more inviting and inclusive for all users.
A Library Reimagined
The refurbished Emersons Green Library has been transformed into a bright, modern, and welcoming environment that serves the community better than ever before. The addition of the beautifully designed children’s reading room has become a standout feature, not only enhancing the physical space but also encouraging a deeper connection with books and storytelling for the youngest visitors.
Inside the Children's' Area
This project reflects our commitment to delivering thoughtful, high-quality work that truly makes a difference. Emersons Green Library is now more than just a place to borrow books - it’s a vibrant, flexible space where imagination grows, learning thrives, and the community feels at home.
PROJECT DETAILS
Duration
12 Weeks Weeks
Location
Emersons Green, Bristol
Emersons Green Library in Bristol is a well-loved local facility, serving as a vital hub for learning, creativity, and community engagement. In 2024, South Gloucestershire Council set out to reimagine and modernise the library’s interior to better reflect the needs of its users, particularly its younger visitors.
We were appointed as Principal Contractor, working closely with MDA Consulting as project managers and Pritchard Barnes Architects, who developed the vision for a playful yet functional layout. The project was designed to take place over two 6-week phases, minimising disruption while transforming the library into a more welcoming and versatile space.
What Emersons Green Library Wanted
The aim was to deliver a fresh, inspiring space with dedicated zones for all age groups, with a particular emphasis on creating a bespoke children’s reading area.
How we Helped
Our team began in July 2024, with phase one focused on reconfiguring the internal layout to accommodate the new children’s reading room. This involved removing an internal wall and constructing a new partition to create a defined dedicated space. With underfloor heating beneath the existing concrete slab, our team used thermal imaging technology to precisely locate the heating pipework. This enabled us to safely drill fixings for the partition without causing damage to the building’s heating.
Phase two involved structural modifications to the library’s external façade, forming a new opening to install a 3-metre by 1-metre arched window – a striking architectural addition to the building. Designed by IG Lintels and finished with carefully detailed canted brickwork to match the existing soldier course, the window now serves as a beautiful focal point, flooding the children’s area with natural light, and blending seamlessly into the original brickwork.
Keeping the Library Open was a key Priority
One of the most important aspects of the project was to ensure the library could remain open and operational throughout the refurbishment. Careful coordination and detailed planning were essential to minimise disruption to staff and visitors. All noisy works were scheduled outside of library opening hours, while general construction activities were carried out with the utmost care to ensure a safe and respectful environment. Temporary internal hoardings were installed to clearly separate the work zones from public areas, allowing essential library services to continue without interruption.
Inside the Main Library Area
Alongside the structural improvements, the project also included upgrades to lighting and power systems, the installation of new flooring throughout, and a full redecoration to refresh the entire interior. The chosen palette and materials modernise the space while making it more inviting and inclusive for all users.
A Library Reimagined
The refurbished Emersons Green Library has been transformed into a bright, modern, and welcoming environment that serves the community better than ever before. The addition of the beautifully designed children’s reading room has become a standout feature, not only enhancing the physical space but also encouraging a deeper connection with books and storytelling for the youngest visitors.
Inside the Children's' Area
This project reflects our commitment to delivering thoughtful, high-quality work that truly makes a difference. Emersons Green Library is now more than just a place to borrow books - it’s a vibrant, flexible space where imagination grows, learning thrives, and the community feels at home.
Value
£100,000
Expertise
Principal Contractor
Sector
Local Authority
