What does it take to design a library that students genuinely want to use? This was the question asked by Lucinda Bosch, Associate at Bsense Interior Architecture, part of the BPAS Architects group, as she undertook the task of designing a library and waiting area for the STADIO Durbanville campus.

For Bosch and her team, the answer lies in rethinking what defines a ‘high performing’ educational space. ‘Traditionally, libraries were designed as rigid, linear spaces filled with rows of desks and silent corners,’ says Bosch. ‘We wanted to challenge that – to create functional, emotional, and spatial environments that feel approachable and belong to their users.’

The library design epitomises BPAS Architecture’s commitment to people-centred design, spaces that go beyond traditional functionality by blending productivity with emotional intelligence.

‘We design with adaptability, productivity, and wellbeing at the forefront,’ Bosch explains. To achieve this, the library incorporates collaboration pods for dynamic group work sessions, acoustically zoned quiet areas offering peaceful environments for concentration, and a biophilic atrium with soft, inviting seating designed to foster informal interaction and moments of rest.

‘A high-performing space isn’t just aesthetically beautiful,’ says Bosch. ‘It must work practically and meet the behavioural needs of its users, from zoning and acoustics to thoughtful ergonomics and inclusivity.’

Avoiding design pitfalls

Design errors often seen in educational environments include over-cluttering spaces, using fixed layouts that hinder flexibility, or neglecting acoustics.

‘We address this in the library through layered zoning, clear circulation paths, and modular furniture that can evolve with the space,’ says Bosch. It is an approach that allows the space to adapt to shifting academic needs without losing its core identity.

The design incorporates neutral palettes and quality materials for timeless aesthetics, while carefully integrating STADIO’s brand colours by way of flexible features like accent walls and bespoke joinery.

Designing for the real-world

Drawing on their extensive experience in education projects, including multiple Curro schools and other STADIO campuses, BPAS Architecture focuses on how students and staff interact with space.

To accommodate the trend where students prefer working outside traditional classrooms, Bosch and her team created pause zones and transitional spaces for informal learning and collaboration.

The practical realities of education have also been considered. ‘While visually striking soft seating has appeal, it must also be robust and vandalism-resistant,’ Bosch says. Striking this balance ensures the library serves users effectively while remaining visually cohesive.

Shaping the future of education design

As education evolves, so too do its spaces. Bosch acknowledges the shift toward hybrid, tech-integrated, and emotionally aware environments, and the STADIO Durbanville library reflects this trend. ‘Beyond functionality, we want these spaces to inspire a sense of value, welcome, and belonging. Ultimately, that’s the true power of thoughtful design, says Bosch.