The centre brings together a new library with the Council’s local careers, housing and social services departments. The original department store building sat anonymously in the drab 1960s Edmonton Green shopping centre but offered the opportunity to create a shop front to Council services with flexible space above. A one stop shop help desk is located with a generous entrance foyer which in turn leads to the library.
The central study and book space is defined on one side by a long curving wall which draws the eye to natural light flooding in from the rear courtyard. Other services are located on the upper floors accessed by a new roof-lit staircase from which generous public waiting and interview spaces are accessed. The staircase is a strong focal point to the whole centre with its warm welcoming colours and materials.
"Rivington Street Studio's consultation and commitment at all stages has resulted in the success of this project. Edmonton now has a centre that people use every day in increasing numbers and the Enfield Library Service has a flagship that will take us into the next century."
Peter Brown, Edmonton Group Librarian
