Works are about to kick off on State Library Victoria’s Vision 2020 project, with Built construction group appointed as head contractor for the $88.1 million redevelopment.
Vision 2020 will transform Australia’s oldest public library, opening up 40 per cent more space for public use, including reopening and restoring the majestic Ian Potter Queen’s Hall and the historic Russell Street entrance.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said the State Library is not only the oldest and busiest in the country, it is also the most forward thinking.
“This transformational project will open up a wide range of new opportunities for Victorians.”
“The project re-imagines the role of a public library and will ensure the building, and its activities, meet the needs of the next generation. We’re looking forward to the next stage getting underway.”It will also create dynamic new spaces for children and families, teenagers, entrepreneurs and start-ups.
Built was selected from a shortlist of four companies and has a strong history of delivering projects in constrained central business district locations, having previously worked on projects such as Canberra’s Australian War Memorial, Sydney’s State Theatre and the Melbourne GPO Building.
At the peak of work Built expects to employ 140 workers on site.
Australasian design firm Architectus with leading Scandinavian architects Schmidt Hammer Lassen have developed the designs for the redevelopment, which is due for completion in 2020.
The Andrews Labor Government has funded $60.4 million of the $88.1 million redevelopment with the remainder sourced from philanthropic donations.
Work is expected to begin on site later this month.
Image by Sunflowerey