Revamping a public library through circularity principles is not only possible but also highly impactful.
Meet the Lippulaiva Library in Espoo, a 3000-square-metre space transformation through collaboration and circular thinking in 2022. This was driven by a collaboration between KVA architects and Plan B workshop of Kierrätyskeskus (also known as Helsinki Metropolitan Area Reuse Centre), initiated through the City of Espoo in 2021.
Under this partnership, KVA Architects led the interior architectural vision, ensuring that reused materials aligned with the library’s function and identity while Plan B handled the selection and redesign of reused furniture, restoring and preparing around 300 pieces including chairs, tables and shelves. At that time, Plan B operated three separate workshops, woodworking, upholstery and sewing, with around 15 art and handicraft employees. The organisation focused on receiving donated furniture from individuals, refurbishing, repairing and selling it through Kierrätyskeskus second-hand shops.
As a result of the deliberate reuse of furniture and materials, the library’s interiors now feature items repurposed from other public spaces, including the former Soukka Library and a nightclub in Espoonlahti. These items were integrated into a refreshed design, inspired by the nature and archipelago of the surrounding region.
In addition to promoting reuse through their shops and through circularity projects such as the Lippulaiva Library, Kierrätyskeskus and their Plan B workshop offers temporary jobs in the form of a work trial to people who face barriers in the labour market. These individuals can take advantage of job coaching services and after the work trial, have the opportunity to continue at the social enterprise through wage-subsidised employment.
Read more about Kierrätyskeskus and the Lippulaiva Library in our report on Social Enterprises’ Role in Furniture and Mattress Circularity.
