Customer: University of Otago
Libraries: Central Library, Law Library, Health Sciences Library, Science Library, Robertson Library.
Worked with: Mark Hughes, Facilities Planning Co-ordinator
Project Focus: To upgrade front-of-house service desks for five libraries, establishing a clear visual identity for library services across the campus.
The Location
The University of Otago, established in 1869, is New Zealand’s oldest university. The Dunedin campus is renowned for its heritage architecture. Particularly, the iconic gothic revival Clocktower Building, constructed from dramatic dark basalt and Oamaru stone. Over time, the campus has expanded and now comprises a thoughtful and harmonious combination of heritage and contemporary buildings. Among the newer additions is the Information Services Building, home to the Central Library.
The Challenge
Multiple student services operate on the ground floor of the Information Services Building, including the welcome desk for the Central Library. To create a more cohesive look, the University Library sought to upgrade the library service desks in the front-of-house area. These new desks needed to be functional, welcoming, and visually appealing, creating a clear visual identity that could be replicated across all five libraries.
The Solution: YAKETY YAK Service Desks
Our Director of Design, Paul, who had worked with The University of Otago previously, was invited to design a solution that would meet these needs. For the Central Library, the following grouping was selected:
A pairing of the 203 Desk and 100 Work Module were chosen for the four remaining libraries.
Mark and his colleagues worked closely with Paul to develop an eye-catching and welcoming visual identity for library services. Bright green was chosen for the desk frontage supporting ‘welcome’ signage in Māori reflecting the University’s cultural values.
Why This Configuration Works
- Height adjustable: Both desks can be raised or lowered quickly, creating an ergonomic workspace that adapts to the user and task at hand.
- Easy staff and student interactions: Organic worktop contours optimise free movement.
- Ample storage: The layout includes plenty of storage.
- YAKETY YAK 203 Desk: One-drawer locking pedestal beneath the worktop
- YAKETY YAK 100 Work Module: Worktop with frosted cowling for privacy and two drawers with open storage below.
Colours, Finishes and Options
- NATURE green vertical panelling ‘pops’ against the backdrop of honey Oamaru Stone and mirrors the green panelling on the adjacent Tree of Knowledge Hub structure.
- SNOWDRIFT white worktops on all modules contrast subtly with the AGED ASH meeting oval on each desk.
- Signage with the words ‘Nau mai, Haere mai’ (a traditional Māori phrase of welcome) features on the upper front panel of the service desks. The University’s new ‘tohu’ (symbol) features on the Work Module barrels.
- ATDEC ORA monitor arms with their generous arm reach, provide the ideal support for curved or flat monitors in interactive environments.
- Pixel Power Button on both the desk and pod gives staff easy access to power and USB connections.
Flexible and Future-Proof
YAKETY YAK desks are designed with longevity in mind. Their modular design allows for reconfiguration as needs change, and their robust construction ensures durability in high-use environments. Most importantly, they support a welcoming and connected experience for students and staff alike.
Customer Feedback
“We appreciated the support provided by Yakety Yak. Paul provided recommendations of potential layouts at the various locations, the model of desk and the support unit, and potential colour palate. We worked through the recommendations and together refined the proposals. Once the Purchase Orders were issued, the library was kept informed during the manufacturing process, and the delivery cycle.
The stunning outcome has been noted across all five libraries. As to the actual colour palate – the new service desks certainly ‘pop’ and cannot be missed! Library staff have observed that there has been a perceptible increase in engagement with students and answering their enquiries.
The fact these units are readily moveable has already been appreciated. The library tested a completely new location at the Science Library, however feedback from both students and staff, proved negative, so an alternative location, closer to where the former service desk had been located, was able to be easily set up within one hour on a Friday afternoon! That swift change of location has been appreciated.
So, in summary, we are delighted with the outcome.”
Mark Hughes, Facilities Planning Co-ordinator
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