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Tom Robins

Books, Books & More Books | Stourport High School

Forward Education
Forward Education
Forward Education
Forward Education

Project Summary

Forward Furniture recently completed a school library furniture project at Stourport High School, transforming an underutilised space into a modern, flexible learning environment. The goal was to maximise book storage while creating a functional area that could support both reading and classroom learning.

Through a combination of bespoke school library shelving, flexible classroom furniture, and modular soft seating, the new space now provides a welcoming environment where students can study, read, and collaborate. The design balances practical storage solutions with modern education furniture that supports the way schools use learning spaces today.
The Brief

The Brief

To design, supply and install a new library that could accommodate up to 10,000 books and be used as a supporting classroom.

Services

Services

  • Face-to-face consultation
  • CAD room layout and planning
  • Fabric and finish sampling
  • Delivery and installation of all furniture
  • On-site support and aftercare
<em>Featured Products</em>

Featured Products

Forward Education

The Challenge

The school’s existing library needed to house an extensive collection of 8,000–10,000 books, but the room itself presented several challenges. The space was long and narrow, with limited wall space available for traditional bookcases, making efficient storage difficult.

At the same time, the library needed to function as more than just a storage area. The school required a multi-purpose learning space that could accommodate up to 30 students for class-based activities, meaning the room needed to include suitable classroom tables and chairs for lessons.

In addition to study space, the school also wanted to introduce a comfortable reading area where students could relax and enjoy books. Designing a layout that combined school library shelving, classroom furniture, and soft seating while still maintaining a clear and organised space was key to the project.

Forward Education

The Solution

To increase storage capacity without overcrowding the room, we introduced back-to-back peninsular bookcases. These freestanding library shelving units not only significantly increased the number of books that could be stored, but also helped to create clear zones within the room.

To ensure the layout worked perfectly within the space, we manufactured bespoke school library bookcases in varying heights and widths. This allowed us to work around existing fixtures such as wall heaters and window cills while maximising usable wall space.

To support classroom use, we incorporated flexible classroom furniture, including durable tables and chairs that can accommodate a full class of students. This ensures the library can easily transition from a quiet reading space to a classroom learning environment when required.

A central reading zone was created using modular soft seating, designed to encourage students to engage with books in a relaxed setting. The seating was upholstered in hard-wearing, stain-resistant fabric, making it suitable for busy school environments while maintaining a welcoming and modern look.

The Result

The completed project has transformed the space into a modern and highly functional school library and learning environment. The bespoke shelving system provides efficient storage for the school’s extensive collection of books while keeping them organised and easily accessible. By introducing peninsular bookcases and custom-built units, the room now maximises storage capacity without compromising the openness of the space.

At the same time, the addition of flexible classroom furniture and modular soft seating has created a multi-purpose environment that supports both classroom learning and independent reading. The library can now comfortably host lessons for up to 30 students while also offering a welcoming reading area that encourages students to spend more time engaging with books.

Before

After