A new library in Twyford, Berkshire has opened after a sensitive renovation of a former school building.
Lying dormant for many years, the Grade listed building was once the Old Polehampton Boys School, but has now been leased to Wokingham Borough Council by the Polehampton Trust.
Now a community building, it recently opened as Twyford Library.
With large windows and high ceilings, the library now features an area designed especially for children, and has an extension providing additional space and an accessible entrance.
A spokesperson for the council explained that it, and the contractors it hired for the project, worked closely alongside a heritage officer. This ensured that all work carried out within the building, which has a Grade II listed status, was respectful of its history.
Council leader Stephen Conway commented:
“Libraries are at the heart of their communities, and I’m proud that we’ve been able to deliver this fantastic new facility for Twyford and bring this important local landmark back to life.”
Modern elements were discreetly installed to avoid spoiling the overall aesthetics of the building, including a lift and an underfloor heating (UFH) system.
Wet and electric UFH are popular solutions when period properties require a modernised heating system that won’t ruin their appearance, as plumbing and cabling can be hidden from view.
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