State Library Victoria’s $88 million Vision 2020 redevelopment has won the 2020 Victorian Premier’s Design Award for Architectural Design.
Chief Executive of the State Library, Kate Torney said the Library was one of seven esteemed finalists and it was a privilege to be recognised by the Premier’s Design Award.
“This is a significant award honouring Victorian designers and businesses that have demonstrated excellence in design,” Ms Torney said.
“The Library’s Vision 2020 redevelopment was designed to maintain the historic beauty of the building while introducing contemporary design solutions that meet the changing needs of our community,” she said.
“The open, accessible spaces and new technologies have made this 165-year-old institution a true library for the future.”
Ms Torney said that Vision 2020 redevelopment increased the Library’s public space by 40 per cent and its seating by 70 per cent.
She said highlights of the redevelopment included refurbished heritage rooms, co-working spaces to support entrepreneurs, and tech-enabled spaces for video editing and podcasting.
“We wouldn’t be here without the tireless work of our designers, Architectus and Schmidt Hammer Lassen, and the passion and commitment of the Library team members who helped turn the vision into a reality,” Ms Torney said.
