Bibliotheek Aalsmeer

Bibliotheek Aalsmeer, part of Stichting Amstelland Bibliotheken, has a clear ambition: to be a dynamic place where people come together, learn and grow. An inclusive library that plays a central role in the community for reading, knowledge sharing, cultural participation and digital inclusion.

The library shares its building with other organizations active in the social domain. In addition to a full collection, the library offers many activities that range from reading books aloud during storytime for young children all the way to computer classes for adults. This distinct identity of a community-driven library rooted in Aalsmeer’s floral heritage needed to be clearly reflected in the new interior.

We began with an inclusive design workshop together with library staff and partners. We also conducted spatial analyses to clearly identify opportunities and challenges. These insights formed the basis for further developing and refining the interior concept, enabling the library and contractor to move forward with implementation.

The focus was on creating a versatile public space with an inviting atmosphere—a place where people enjoy spending time and where different activities can take place simultaneously. A dedicated youth area offers more space elsewhere in the building to meet and linger.

To facilitate the transition from design to execution, we linked the plan to a cost strategy with different options, aligned with the available budget.

Similar to the flower auctions of the past, value is created through constant exchange. People now have more than just one reason for going to the library: By clearly separating zones, multiple activities can take place simultaneously without things feeling crowded or chaotic. Intimate corners offer spaces for quiet conversations or individual activities. The central area is suitable for group activities, and there is a separate workspace for study and concentration.

The renewed library feels like a living room; the space is calmer, warmer and more versatile than before. The interior is inspired by the world of flowers and Aalsmeer’s natural landscape. Green tones on the walls and pinewood flooring reference nature and craftsmanship. Individual furniture pieces in soft hues such as pink and yellow add color and vibrancy; vintage rugs and subtle lighting create atmosphere and layering.

A focal point is the children’s and young adults’ area, featuring an amphitheater whose shape is inspired by a tulip, subtly referencing Aalsmeer. 

The result is a library in balance: between calm and liveliness, between collection and connection, between familiar and new.

Bibliotheek Aalsmeer, like our projects Bibliotheek Uithoorn and Bibliotheek Amstelveen-Westwijk, is part of Stichting Amstelland Bibliotheken.