Gemma John

Fellow’s Profile

Gemma John

Fellow’s Profile

Gemma John

Interior design and the innovation of public libraries

Fellowship

Themes

Focus

Reinvigorating public libraries and supporting community engagement through innovative interior design

Countries

Fellowship year

2015

Supported by

Locality

London

Biography

I am the founder of Human City, a spatial strategy consultancy that helps property asset management and development firms create places that have a greater societal impact.

My Fellowship investigated the changing vision for public libraries and how design and architecture is being used as a tool to enhance the experience of customers and change the behaviour of staff. I explored the location, layout and use of public libraries, and their evolving role in society, in 12 locations across four countries in two international contexts.

The purpose of my Fellowship was to connect individuals who shared an interest in the role of design and architecture in the transformation of public libraries. On completing my research, I wrote a report on my findings which I made available on my website, hosted a workshop for stakeholders to meet and share ideas, and presented on my research at relevant industry and academic conferences. I have also written peer-review articles.

I have become known as an expert in this under-explored area of design and architecture. Drawing on my research, I consult on the role of third spaces as community builders.

Disclaimer

All Reports are copyright © the author. The moral right of the author has been asserted. The views and opinions expressed by any Fellow are those of the Fellow and not of the Churchill Fellowship or its partners, which have no responsibility or liability for any part of them.

Disclaimer

All Reports are copyright © the author. The moral right of the author has been asserted. The views and opinions expressed by any Fellow are those of the Fellow and not of the Churchill Fellowship or its partners, which have no responsibility or liability for any part of them.

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