State Library Victoria’s Vision 2020 redevelopment has been recognised in this year’s Victorian Architecture Awards, selected to take home prizes in three categories.
Chief Executive of the Library, Kate Torney said the Library’s redevelopment won the esteemed Melbourne Prize, and it also won awards in the Heritage–Conservation and Public Architecture categories.
“Working with Architectus and Schmidt Hammer Lassen, our vision was to create a seamless link between the Library’s rich history and its changing role in the 21st century,” Ms Torney said.
“Looking at the building today, I’m so proud to see this vision come to life,” she said.
“The design is awe-inspiring and it’s a reflection of the resilience, adaptability and creativity that is at the heart of the Library.”
Ms Torney said the redevelopment increased public spaces by 40 per cent and seating by 70 per cent.
“Judges praised the Library redevelopment, saying its contribution to the public and its considered treatment of architectural heritage were impressive,” she said.
“From co-working hubs to study nooks, children’s reading corners, wedding and event spaces, podcast booths and video editing suites, the Library’s $88.1 million redevelopment responded to the changing needs of the Library’s growing community by delivering a world-leading emporium of knowledge to the people of Victoria,” Ms Torney said.
