State Library Victoria project to start in Melbourne

The design of the over 160 years-old Australian Library has been unveiled yesterday and thus marks the project official beginning.

The Danish-based Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects plus local partners Architectus and Andronas Conservation Architects have collaborated to create the redevelopment design of the State Library Victoria Vision 2020, in Melbourne.

Many modifications are expected.
The Ian Potter Queen’s Hall and Galleries are henceforth to be opened to public. The architects’ team has also imagined a new design for the Trescowthick Information Center (TIC) and the Courtyards.

The $88.1M Vision 2020 project would also include 40% more space dedicated to public use including children, families and youth reserved new areas.

Founding Partner Morten Schmidt said: "Our goal is to create spaces that foster learning, exploration and innovation, expanding the Library’s reach and relevance and transforming this popular landmark into a true urban hub - a place where people in Melbourne naturally gravitate to in order to engage, learn, socialize and be inspired."

The design being unveiled since yesterday, the construction could start for the 13,532 square feet State Library Victoria which is to be completed in 2020.