Sittingbourne Library, Kent

Sittingbourne Library, on Central Avenue in Kent, has reopened following an extensive refurbishment, marking a significant transformation of the community space. Closed in November for four and a half months, it reopened on Monday 23rd March with a refreshed layout that combines traditional book services with new initiatives following the introduction of a Family Hub. The project brings multiple resources together under one roof, offering a flexible environment for learning, reading, and community engagement.

As part of Kent County Council’s commitment to creating adaptable community spaces, the refurbishment redesigned the children’s area and incorporated new study spaces. The design concept centres around nature and the local history of the area, drawing inspiration from the surrounding apple orchards and farms. This theme guided the choice of furnishings, décor, and crucially, the flooring.

To support a multi-functional library, the flooring needed to be durable, versatile, and visually appealing. Project Flooring installed Supacord carpet tiles in Emerald and Anthracite throughout the library. The bright Emerald tiles bring a lively, natural touch to the children’s area, encouraging young learners to explore and engage while the Anthracite tiles provide a modern backdrop in study and communal areas, supporting focused reading and community programs.

Supacord tiles are renowned for their resilience and practicality. Available in 42 colours and anti-static for use in computer areas, they have been installed in commercial buildings since 1973. Their low installation and maintenance costs, combined with durability in high-traffic environments, make them ideal for libraries and multi-purpose spaces.

This refurbishment has redefined Sittingbourne Library as a vibrant, welcoming hub. The project sets a new standard for modern libraries, creating a functional, inspiring environment that will serve the community for years to come.