Ripple: Transforming a School Library into a Vibrant Learning Space

Revitalizing Education through Design Action

In a world where education is the key to success, the importance of a well-designed learning environment cannot be overstated. Recognizing this, Design Action, a renowned design firm, took on the challenge of transforming the outdated library of Yan Oi Tong Chan Wong Suk Fong Memorial Secondary School in Hong Kong into a vibrant and inspiring space. The result? Ripple, a design that not only beautifies the premises but also fosters effective knowledge transfer and inspires students.

The inspiration behind Ripple stems from the idea that drops falling onto a lake cause ripples, just as students acquire knowledge from books and transform it into inspiration through contemplation. The curved bookshelves, together with a round-shaped table in the center of the library, create overlapping ripples. The pattern on the floor and ceiling correspond to each other, creating a sense of harmony and completeness throughout the space.

What sets Ripple apart is its unique approach to addressing the challenges faced by the school. As part of the direct subsidy scheme secondary school instituted by the government, Yan Oi Tong Chan Wong Suk Fong Memorial Secondary School had been struggling with a low usage rate of its library. Design Action aimed to change this by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that would effectively pass on knowledge, inspire students, and contribute to the development of a better society.

The realization of Ripple involved the use of various materials, including plastic laminate, carpet, vinyl tile, sound reduction fabric, stone, and Corian. The design covers an area of 2500 square feet, maximizing the available space to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

One of the key features of Ripple is its emphasis on creating a sense of belonging for students. The designer believes that the campus should not only be a place for learning but also a second home for students. To achieve this, different levels of greenery are incorporated into every corner of the library, symbolizing the uniqueness and expertise of each student. Additionally, light-colored wood elements are used to brighten the space and bring it closer to nature.

The transformation of the library at Yan Oi Tong Chan Wong Suk Fong Memorial Secondary School was completed in February 2020. The project not only revitalized the space but also served as a catalyst for change in the way schools approach aesthetics and design. By creating a relaxing and comfortable campus, Design Action aimed to improve students' interest in learning, inspire their development, and ultimately build a better society for the future.

Ripple has garnered recognition for its innovative design and impact on education. In 2021, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

Design Action, the creative force behind Ripple, has successfully transformed a traditional school library into a dynamic and inspiring learning space. Through their innovative design approach, they have not only revitalized the premises but also sparked a new mindset in education. Ripple serves as a testament to the power of design to shape the future and create a positive impact on society.