2020 National Architecture Awards: National Commendation for Public Architecture

Jury citation

The State Library Victoria is Australia’s oldest and busiest public library. The Vision 2020 redevelopment addressed ageing buildings, changing needs and confusing circulation through a skilful and sound design framework that will expand the library’s reach and relevance for many generations to come.

The redevelopment has brought together and clarified a conglomeration of 23 buildings, unlocking and transforming 15 spaces for public use. It has created new connections and reinstated the through-block link and Russell Street entry to enhance legibility and access. Public space has been increased by 40 percent, expanding the possibilities of the library’s functions.

Interiors have been stripped of years of building clutter to reveal their original character, in turn, opening up more usable spaces for contemporary research and learning. While remaining respectful of the earlier built fabric, new design elements introduce a fresh and contemporary language, further enhancing the visitor experience in this popular community hub.

For more coverage, read the project review by Conrad Hamann in Architecture Australia May/Jun 2020.

Project credits

Architects Architectus and Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects; Project team Ruth Wilson, Morten Schmitt, John Sprunt, Matt Spinaze, Elif Tinaztepe, Jette Birkeskov Mogensen, Lucy Croft, Jayden Peacock, Simon Farr, Thomas Harvey, Sarah Ianno, Emma Lombardi, David Ha, Anette Bjerring Gammelgard, Simon Andreas Arnbjerg, Waleria Kudera, Henriette Byrge, Ivan Cheltuitoru; Builder Built; Project manager Development Victoria; Heritage architect Andronas Conservation Architecture; Structural, civil, electrical , hydraulic, mechanical and fire engineering, fire services and vertical transport consultant Irwinconsult; Building surveyor, DDA compliance McKenzie Group; Acoustic and AV consultant Arup; Town planner Urbis; Signage and wayfinding ID-Lab; Lighting and ESD consultant Steensen Varming; Traffic engineer Salt; Quantity surveyor AECOM

State Library Victoria Redevelopment is located in Melbourne, Victoria on the land of the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri peoples of the Kulin nation.