The design of a civic square, to complement the 2000 Stirling Prize-winning building, designed by Alsop and Störmer. Completed late in 1999, it is part of a concerted programme of regeneration and community growth for this part of the London Borough of Southwark.

An intense dialogue was launched with the community to discover what sort of building and public spaces Peckham’s residents wanted. The building was commissioned as part of an ambitious urban regeneration project in one of London’s poorer areas.

The subsequent popularity of the library and surrounding public open spaces has endorsed this radical approach to urban planning.

The plaza in front of the building continues below its underbelly to the entrance making use of the free space below the body of the library. A carefully controlled palette of materials has been selected to reflect the buildings status in the community and for its longevity. The public space opens directly onto Peckham’s bustling high street which allows the space to be used successfully for public events and activities.

Client: London Borough of Southwark

Architect: Alsop and Störmer