Our design for the transformation of an under-utilised railway carpark includes a library, a regional administrative centre, and an outreach facility for Southern Cross University.

We needed to respond to the site’s particular flooding constraints, with the resulting building being elevated, while remaining connected to the ground plane with a curved feature stairway.

We designed full-height glass walls to open the library out to the street and draw in natural light, while controlled openings to the northeast provide pleasant views.

Along with envelope shading the building includes a “night purging” system that expels hot air at night, maximising the efficiency of the air-conditioning system.

Flexibility and adaptable use dictate the design of the library’s internal spaces. A large open floor plate maximises passive surveillance and interaction, and creates a sense of openness and engagement. This flexibility will help future proof this important civic asset. Materials and finishes have been selected to minimise maintenance for the building’s lifetime.

Grafton, Australia