Kulturium Ishøj Library

A sensory transformation

Kulturium Ishøj Library in Denmark has undergone a remarkable transformation, with the primary focus on creating a sensory and visually stunning interior inspired by the Danish landscape. This redesign has not only elevated the library’s aesthetics but also sparked renewed interest in the library itself.

At the heart of the new design is the ambition to create a space that invites immersion, fosters community, and inspires a love of stories – including a “reading forest” that encourages children to explore and dream. The design reflects the character of Danish forests, where children can meet the fox, the hare, the owl and the red deer. Furthermore, tree stump-shaped poufs and specially designed elements reinforce the forest theme. This approach creates not only a visual experience but also an emotional connection to reading and play.

The children’s area has been carefully designed for children and their parents to enjoy shared reading, sensory play and quality time together. Every detail has been considered to create an environment where children can learn and discover through their senses. For example, shelving systems are crafted to resemble built-in hollow trees, while small oases with soft carpets featuring nature motifs and various forest animals can be spotted throughout, adding to the warm and inviting atmosphere.

> More images from Kulturium Ishøj Library

New children's library at Kulturium Ishøj Library

Atmospheric design

Custom-made furniture

An essential part of Kulturium Ishøj Library ‘s redesign is the specially designed furniture, tailored to meet the library’s needs and aesthetics. At Lammhults Biblioteksdesign, we have provided furniture, accessories, and graphics that are not only functional but also harmonise perfectly with the children’s forest theme.

The forest theme offers a unique atmosphere, inviting both children and adults into a world of imagination and discovery. By creating a theme that engages children at their own level, the library becomes not just a place for reading but also a space for play and creative expression. The introduction of the reading forest has brought new life to the library, creating a diverse and inclusive environment where people of all ages feel welcome and inspired.

Within the reading forest, you will find furniture from our popular tree stump collection such as Rollo Tree Pouf, Ragnar Tree Pouf, and other customised solutions. Elsewhere in the library, the design features Maria Podium and Browser, Moai seating, and Ninotchka lighting. Together, these pieces add both practical functionality and aesthetic appeal, creating a cohesive visual identity throughout the library.

> More about biophilic library design

From 3D drawing to interior design - Children's library.

From 3D drawing to interior design - Board game area.

A successful collaboration

Realising a dream

Through close collaboration with the library, we ensured that every design decision supported the goal of creating an inclusive, inspiring and sensory space for learning and reading.

Our mission was to design a library environment that stimulates the imagination and encourages a love of stories among both children and adults – without turning it into a playground. Drawing on our expertise and experience, we created a balance between functionality, aesthetics and educational value, making Kulturium Ishøj Library a valued meeting place for both families and institutions.

Pernille Hjort, Head of Kulturium, says:

“We have had a fantastic collaboration with Lammhults Biblioteksdesign. They have been very attentive, flexible and inspiring throughout the process, listening to our needs and ideas and translating them into concrete, creative solutions. The furniture and graphics are of high quality, and the creativity is outstanding – right down to the smallest detail. We could not have wished for a better partner and look forward to more interior design projects in the future.”

A place for everyone

Renewed interest from visitors

The results speak for themselves: Kulturium Ishøj Library has seen a surge in interest from both private visitors and institutions. This reflects not only the project’s success but also its ability to attract and engage people of all ages, without compromising the library’s literary and educational mission.

With its new design, a visit to Kulturium Ishøj Library is not just about stepping into a physical space – it is an experience. Through a combination of bespoke furniture, carefully selected pieces, striking graphics and strategic layout, we have created a library that presents books and other materials in a more visible, welcoming and open way. We look forward to continuing to develop innovative solutions that transform libraries into unique places where learning, reading and imagination go hand in hand.