Libraries and study halls
Mar 5, 2026
Design for hospitality in libraries and study halls
Libraries and study halls support students throughout their academic careers and provide a place for commuters to interact with on-campus peers. Designing for hospitality helps students feel safe in these spaces, find their way around, and choose the right level of interaction at every moment.
Design considerations
Read on to learn how you can design more welcoming libraries and study halls with the principles of hospitality.
Protection
Design visually open, well-lit spaces.
Orient screens/white boards away from passersby.
Designate zones for varying levels of focused attention and interaction.
Add wide circulation paths and accessible furniture for students of all abilities.
Supply secure short-term storage for commuters. Design visually open, well-lit spaces.
Accommodate a range of sensory preferences through noise-dampening headphones, low-stimulation zones, and movement-friendly areas.
Intellectual welcome
Make it easy to see how the space works, including where people can study and which areas allow food, phone calls, or group activities.
Provide a variety of seating types.
Incorporate bright colors and natural light.
Post multilingual signage with art, displays, and featured collections that acknowledge student diversity.
Open table
Incorporate a café where students can recharge during their studies.
Provide communal tables and mixed seating (not just task chairs).
Designate independent study spaces and social zones for communal work.
Featured products
Libraries and study halls designed for hospitality can provide a sense of comfort and safety. Design for a diverse range of study styles and preferences, putting students at ease while supporting their privacy and safety.
OE1 Agile Wall by Herman Miller
Create adaptable zones for collaboration or privacy with this mobile wall system.
OE1 Huddle Table by Herman Miller
These compact and functional tables are ideal for quick meetings or collaborative sessions.
Caper Chair by Herman Miller
Lightweight and colorful, Caper Chairs add comfort and mobility to dynamic workspaces.
Bay Pods by Herman Miller
Bay Pods were designed to create private zones for focus in open offices.
Zeph Stool by Herman Miller
A playful stool with ergonomic curves and vibrant colors for dynamic work settings.
Morse Table by NaughtOne
A robust table with a steel frame and customizable finishes for versatile applications.
Morrison Hannah by Knoll
Classic proportions meet contemporary detailing in this recently reissued icon.
Symbol Sofa by NaughtOne
A modular sofa system with simple geometry and soft upholstery for modern interiors.
Passport Table by Herman Miller
This height-adjustable design supports active work styles in any environment.
Connect Modular Sofa by Muuto
Configure endless layouts with this modular—and incredibly comfortable—sofa system.
Eames Table by Herman Miller
Clean lines and durable construction make this Eames design a timeless centerpiece.
Rockwell Unscripted Upholstered Seat by Knoll
Movable and soft, this pouf adds comfort and flexibility to lounge or work areas.
Rockwell Unscripted Easy Table by Knoll
A versatile table that supports collaboration and casual gatherings with ease.
Visu Chair by Muuto
Gentle curves and a slim profile give Visu a timeless look for dining or meeting spaces.
Rockwell Unscripted Steps by Knoll
Welcome guests and anticipate their needs with comfortable, contemporary seating and tables for exam rooms.
Pullman Chair Pod by NaughtOne
Privacy and comfort in a compact footprint that creates a distraction-free work retreat.
Explore more
Learn more about how hospitality integrates into other areas on campus.
