UFC 4-740-20
1 May 2006
3-4
INTERIOR DESIGN
Surface materials and furnishings should be coordinated and selected by professional
interior designers. Include a request for such services in the requirements document.
Interior design selections shall be based on consideration of anticipated use,
maintenance characteristics, life cycle cost, fire protection, and other safety
requirements. Refer to the Air Force Interior Design Guides, MAJCOM specific interior
design guidelines, and base specific architectural compatibility guidelines or facilities
excellence standards for additional information.
3-4.1
Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E)
Choose furniture that is durable, comfortable, and attractive. Solid wood is a good
choice and natural finishes can be utilized to accentuate the interior dcor. Use solid
wood corners if wood veneers are used. Circulation and reference desks need durable
counters, such as granite or solid surface composite materials. Consider modular
furniture components designed specifically for libraries. Counter fronts are high
maintenance and require highly durable materials, because of the wear and tear.
People stand, lean, or press against the counter materials at all levels of height,
including child heights. Consider metal, solid surface or stone for the front counter
panels and tops. Current systems furniture options should be considered as a high
potential solution for library counters. If a systems furniture library counter is not
included, it should at least be considered as a supplementary or complimentary feature
to allow for future growth and change at the counter area. Systems furniture's storage
and power capabilities, as well as stack ability, provide an incredible range of flexibility
and options to serve the many needs of a library counter. The counter does not have to
be a permanent, built-in, custom construction item.
Consider graffiti-proof furniture and materials in bathrooms, small group study areas,
and other secluded places not easily visible by staff members. Floor material colors
and textures will be primary considerations in the selection of coordinated furniture and
equipment. Do not use compact or high density shelving in areas accessible to the
public. Utilize book stacks with heavy duty construction and consider the use of 16
gauge metal stacks and shelves specifically designed for library use that can be
secured to avoid being knocked over, yet still be moved with books in place. This is
very beneficial when rearranging stacks or replacing carpet, because books do not need
to be removed to relocate the stacks. Wooden book stacks are more attractive and
quieter than metal stacks, but may require moving books prior to relocation. If single-
tier steel bracket shelving is utilized, follow the National Information Standards
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