Creating Spaces to Read & Dream: Montessori School Library Design by Atelier ARBO in Bangalore

Nestled on a serene 6-acre site on the outskirts of Bangalore, Valiants Academy—a Montessori school—offers an environment brimming with tranquillity and quiet joy. The school’s principal, recognizing the innate enthusiasm for reading in his students, partnered with Atelier ARBO, a passionate architecture firm based in Mumbai, to create a space where children could lose themselves in the magic of stories.

The campus seamlessly blends built structures with open natural landscapes. Classrooms and hallways extend effortlessly into courtyards and gardens, giving the school a charming, rustic character. A short walk from the central courtyard leads to the heart of this vision: a 3,600 sq. ft. library designed to invite exploration and comfort.
Stepping into the library, students are welcomed by a soaring 25-foot ceiling. To transform this grand volume into a more inviting space, a 190 sq. ft. mezzanine was added. This upper level, furnished with bookshelves, floor seating, and cushioned benches, creates a cozy haven for reading. Along the staircase leading up, a large bookshelf teems with titles, encouraging students to pause and pick a book that sparks their curiosity.

Beneath the stairs lies a mini amphitheatre—a series of wide-tread steps designed for storytelling and group discussions. Throughout the library, linear L-shaped bookshelves subtly divide the space into functional zones, including a book repair station, a digital research area with computers, collaborative study tables, and a central lounge space designed for relaxation and informal learning.

At the back of the library, large windows open up to a beautiful courtyard view. The designers made the most of this natural light and scenery by incorporating stepped seating nooks, perfect for quiet reading with a view.
Understanding how regularly students gravitate to the library, the architect felt a deep responsibility to craft a space that not only attracts young readers but also nurtures their love for learning. Every design element is considered from a child’s need and physical perspective. Bookshelves, made from warm rubber wood & Birchwood, were tailored to child-specific height, promoting independence and discovery.

The library’s interiors feature a soothing palette—natural wood tones paired with soft pastel rugs, cushions, and throws. Thoughtful artwork and elegant decorative touches add sophistication without overwhelming the space. Green indoor plants, carefully positioned throughout, breathe life into the environment, offering visual calm and helping children stay focused and engaged.

“Designing a children’s library for a Montessori school was an incredibly enriching journey,” reflects Rinka D’Monte, Principal Architect at Atelier ARBO. “Our goal was to create a space that speaks to a child’s imagination and invites them to explore the boundless joy of reading and learning.”