State Library of South Australia Redevelopment – Adelaide

Location Adelaide, Australia

The redevelopment of the State Library carefully balanced the identity of each building within the ensemble, allowing their original forms and individual character to be more clearly expressed.

Architecturally, the three buildings that comprise the Library were given new life in two complementary ways: first, through a heritage-conscious refurbishment of the two nineteenth-century buildings, and second, through the reforming of wall and roof elements of the later 1960s connecting wing to introduce daylight and provide outlook.

A new glass foyer was introduced as an intentionally ephemeral element within the three-way composition. Designed to allow generous visual access to the interior, it creates an atmosphere akin to a pavilion set within the entry courtyard, mediating between the historic and contemporary components of the Library.

Originally commissioned as MGT Architects under the direction of partners Harold Guida and Tim Brown, the design team collaborated with Hassell for the building, and Bannyan Wood on extensive exhibition design, while MGT partner Pamille Berg led a significant integrated art programme.

with Hassell, Adelaide