State Library of VictoriaIntegrating Digital Technology With Architectural Heritage

State Library of Victoria

The new core message was 'Information. Ideas. Inspiration. For Everyone'. Harkess-Ord was briefed to develop a future-facing digital tower to embody the values, heritage and architecture, to welcome visitors and to serve as an information gateway to discover what the library has to offer.

Harkess-Ord developed a freestanding tower to wrap around a heritage-listed column at the center of the main octagonal Information Room. This is the main collection zone for people entering the library and the tower provides an engaging focal point for visitors, reminding and informing them of the content and events taking place within The Library.

Dome Room State Library of Victoria
External Approach Routes State Library of Victoria
Exterior Library of Victoria
Ground Level Journey Routes State Library of Victoria
Red Barry Detail State Library of Victoria
Sign State Library of Victoria 01 N
Lobby State Library of Victoria
Information Lobby State Library of Victoria
Detail State Library of Victoria 03
Installation State Library of Victoria 02
Cladding State Library of Victoria
Welding State Library of Victoria
Installation State Library of Victoria 01

To integrate within its environment, perforated metal was the specified material, presenting the potential for artistic exploration and an illuminated visual 'crown' was designed to extend the creative use of light.

Benefits

  • The final solution is a digital tower which successfully integrates the artistic design with technology, complimenting the architectural setting and providing enhanced visitor navigation, information sourcing and orientation at the library's heart
  • Melbourne Design Award Finalist

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