Ordu University Library, Turkey

Located in Turkey, the Ordu university was designed by Escape From Sofa with contracting work by Özbek İnşaat Construction and Barbo Design. The client’s brief was to design a dynamic space that would flow freely and create a refreshing, peaceful atmosphere for people to study efficiently.

The library consists of a digital laboratory, a hall of periodicals and another one for topical books, a consultation area, a print room and five individual workspaces that are furnished with Escape From Sofa’s design aesthetics. The common space is also divided into different areas and partially closed for distinct needs, with columns used to separate and define spaces.

Furthermore, the university houses a nursery that runs over three floors with four nursery rooms, a multi-use activity room, a drama room, an arts and crafts room and a dining hall. Apart from activity and care units, there are seven administrative rooms for staff and observation rooms for teachers. All the spaces are essentially designed for preschool children’s development, to improve creativity and whilst meeting all educational needs.

The overall design approach was to create spaces that stimulate children’s cognitive and social skills. Neutral colours and graphic patterns were integrated into architectural elements, while custom made furniture was designed to specifically create an uplifting atmosphere.