Recently, iDeal Property Photography was commissioned to capture the updated fitout of Singleton Public Library, showcasing the work of Raeco Library Furniture and the new library environment. This project gave us an incredible opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in the commercial fit-out space and interior furniture photography, allowing us to focus on the small yet important details that make a space feel inviting and functional. For more insights into our commercial fit-out photography services, check out our Commercial Retail Fitout Photography page.
At iDeal Property Photography, we pride ourselves on our experience and knowledge in capturing the essence of interior transformations, and the Singleton Library project was no different. We worked closely with Raeco Library Furniture, listening attentively to their vision and ensuring that every piece of furniture was showcased to highlight its purpose, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Our aim was to create images that not only represented the upgraded space but also provided Raeco with a marketing portfolio that speaks to their values of quality and design. For a look at how we showcase enhanced spaces and transform projects, visit our blog post on Capturing Excellence.
About Raeco and the Singleton Library Fitout
Raeco Library Furniture is well-regarded for its range of sustainable, commercial-quality furnishings, designed specifically for libraries, schools, and universities. They offer ergonomic task chairs, versatile tables, stylish lounges, ottomans, and child-friendly pieces—each built to withstand heavy use and backed by a minimum 10-year structural warranty. This makes Raeco a trusted name when it comes to quality and durability in the educational and public space sectors.
The Singleton Public Library project was all about transformation. Located in the heart of Singleton, NSW, this library has served the community for nearly two decades, evolving from just a collection of books into a true community hub. The recent refurbishment, made possible by a $190,613 NSW Government Public Library Infrastructure Grant, included not only new furniture but also new signage, updated power-enabled study desks, and replacement of external signage.
Our task was to ensure that every aspect of this revitalized space was captured in its best light. You can also see our expertise in action in our project at Oakber, where we focused on elevating retail spaces through interior fitout photography: Elevating Retail Spaces.
Singleton: A Welcoming Community
Singleton is a rural town located in the Upper Hunter Region, well-connected and offering a mix of tranquility and modern amenities. Situated on the banks of the Hunter River, about 197 kilometres north-north-west of Sydney and 80 kilometres northwest of Newcastle, Singleton is home to over 24,070 residents. Known for its local schools, parks, and shopping facilities, Singleton is a welcoming community that offers a great lifestyle for families.
The Singleton Library: More Than Just Books
Since its opening in 2004, Singleton Public Library has been at the heart of the community. Offering a wide variety of public programs—ranging from exhibitions, talks, and tours to social events—the Library is an important space for learning, social connections, and cultural enrichment. It’s a place where people of all ages come together, whether to read, study, relax, or connect with others. With its recent makeover, the Library now offers an even more inviting environment for everyone.
Capturing the Transformation: iDeal Property Photography’s Role
When we were invited to photograph the newly renovated library, our goal was clear: to visually communicate the transformation in a way that speaks to both the functional and aesthetic improvements. The furniture supplied by Raeco was not just functional—it was key to creating spaces that meet the needs of a diverse group of library users, from young children to adult learners. Our photography aimed to show how Raeco's furnishings seamlessly integrate into the library's environment, emphasizing the importance of comfort, ergonomics, and versatility.
We focused on capturing the small but impactful details that make all the difference—ergonomic seating perfect for long study sessions, cozy reading corners where patrons can lose themselves in a book, and versatile tables designed for everything from collaborative projects to quiet study. By paying close attention to the client’s brief, we ensured that each photo highlighted the value Raeco brings to a community space like Singleton Library.
Our expertise in commercial fit-out photography lies not just in taking photos but in understanding the story each space wants to tell. With Singleton Library, the story was one of transformation, accessibility, and community—a place designed to serve and adapt to the needs of its users, offering comfort, connection, and inspiration.
New Spaces to Read, Relax, and Connect
The all-new furniture at Singleton Public Library was supplied by Raeco, a leading provider of library, school, and university furnishings. The iDeal Property Photography project aimed to highlight how Raeco's furnishings seamlessly integrate into the library's environment, capturing both aesthetic and practical aspects. The photos focused on how the ergonomic and multi-purpose designs cater to the diverse needs of library patrons. Almost 20 years after the Singleton Library’s Queen Street headquarters first opened its doors, the space has been revitalized with an all-new furniture upgrade.
Four truckloads of new tables, chairs, armchairs, and children's furniture arrived on 6 September 2024, transforming the Library into a more modern, comfortable, and functional environment. The iDeal Property Photography team paid particular attention to the client’s vision for marketing purposes, ensuring that key features like the ergonomic seating, study desks, and cozy reading corners were showcased in the best light. Along with updated furniture, the grant also covered new collection signage, power-enabled study desks, and the replacement of external library signage.
Celebrating 20 Years of Community Engagement
The Singleton Public Library isn’t just celebrating new furniture; it’s also celebrating its 20th birthday this September, and the festivities are packed with a host of free events for everyone:
Thursday, 26 September at 6 pm: Join food personality, author, and speaker Julie Goodwin for "Your Time Starts Now" at the Singleton Civic Centre. Julie will share stories from her remarkable career.
Saturday, 28 September at 11 am: Meet author Michelle Pittman for a talk on her book, "Lost: A Story of Survival," a true story about a mother and son’s fight for survival during a weekend adventure in Mt Royal National Park.
Saturday, 12 October from 10 am to 2 pm: Celebrate at the Free Family Birthday Fair, featuring jumping castles, a petting zoo, face painting, magic shows, storytime sessions, a photo booth, a car display, and, of course, birthday cake. A free sausage sizzle will be served from 12 pm to 2 pm.
The Singleton Public Library continues to serve as a place where the community comes together, learns, and connects. With this new furniture upgrade, they’re ensuring that the Library remains an inviting and accessible space for years to come. Whether it’s reading a book, enjoying a family event, studying, or simply relaxing, the Singleton Public Library has something for everyone.
Join the Celebration!
