The Anele Tembe Library by Hesse Kleinloog Studio
Inspired by the concept of the future of libraries, Durban Girls’ College sought to reinvent the school’s literary space and turn it into a sanctuary. Guided by Hesse Kleinloog Studio, and in memory of past pupil Anele Tembe, the new library carefully marries classical aesthetics with contemporary vision to present a renewed environment to the community of girls who will be the women of tomorrow.
Beyond the books
The Durban Girls’ College senior library was first launched in the old school hall building in 1977, when the new Centenary Hall was built. The original character of the building was iconic, with its wooden roof trusses and historic 15th-century ‘peppercorn’ stained-glass window. However, as cherished as it was, Durban Girls’ College began to notice that traditional libraries have evolved, and a new motto guides contemporary design: Libraries should be about more than books.
From past to present
Being a past pupil of DGC herself, co-founder of Hesse Kleinloog Studio Andrea Kleinloog had a close connection to the project. Her approach was to question and address the 21st-century functions of a library, especially as a space that is designed for the education and wellness of young women. The library project and renovation, generously contributed by the Tembe Family and Anele Tembe Foundation following their daughter’s passing in 2021, marked the beginning of an ambitious initiative for a library and an innovation centre aiming to be more than a physical space. It aspires to be a platform for the education of young women beyond the classroom, transcending socio-economic boundaries and setting a benchmark for school library experiences nationwide. The design centres around curiosity — the encouragement and nurturing of it to embrace discovery. The new library was designed to be a sanctuary, a museum, and a workshop for the pupils of DGC. It is a space curated for modern-day exploration; each carefully designed space is sensory and inspires perspective and investigation.
Paying homage to the classics
Despite its futuristic design, the library pays homage to the original character and architectural style of the building, celebrating its rich history. Classical aesthetic lines and a bright, open environment turn the space into one most welcoming. Arched reading, studying, and activity booths create a sense of security, the ultimate goal of a sanctuary. Similarly, the suspended paper scroll sculptures by Elonah O’Neil-Reid make for a calming atmosphere, while nostalgic stained-glass windows bring a vivid warmth to the space. As with all their projects, Hesse Kleinloog Studio focussed on the contextual relevance of the space, working with local suppliers, artisans, and makers. To be able to work in such a beautiful historic setting was a triumph in itself. Delivering a project that introduces out-of-the-box thinking to a traditionally conservative setting was another significant project win.
Although the biggest challenges were fitting all the required contents (books are still books!) and working around the school holidays and functioning school days, this project is a successful demonstration in two things for sure: The Anele Tembe Library will forever be a platform for innovating education beyond the classroom, and Hesse Kleinloog Studio the team that made this dream come to life.
Photography by Samantha Maber
This article is an extract from our June Issue. Read the full issue here.
