Design process

The idea of a new open space as a focus for the centre of Peckham emerged in the mid 1990's following Single Regeneration Budget housing programmes and with the background of the 1930-40's Peckham Experiment. Peckham Square was envisaged by the clients as a setting for a number of community buildings including a "healthy living" leisure centre - the Peckham Pulse. The strategic client team for the library comprised Adrian Olsen, Head of Southwark Libraries, a project manager, a finance liaison officer from Southwark Council, and a representative from the Peckham Partnership and from Alsop Architects on behalf of the design team. Alsop Architects received the commission after a competitive tendering process.

Originally conceived as a 'Mediateque' with arts groups and studios as well as library facilities, the purpose of the new library building was distilled due to financial constraints following estimates for the original design. According to the clients, the underlying philosophy was to produce "a dynamic building whose services people wanted to use"; it was to be attractive to all age groups, and to make a major contribution to the regeneration of Peckham. Marco Goldschmied as RIBA president described the project at the Stirling Award ceremony as having "a model brief".

A large amount of public consultation was undertaken, using a model of the proposed building sited in various local venues as a basis for discussion. Work began on site in 1998 and the scheme was completed in 1999.

Ongoing Peckham Square developments continue including a housing development with community arts facilities next to the library, and a proposed tram route from Camden.