Art Gallery of NSW Library and Members Lounge wins a NSW Architecture Award for Public Architecture and Commendation for Interior Architecture!
Jury Citation:
"A once closed, non-publicly accessible portion of the 1988 wing of the Art Gallery at lower level 3, has been significantly transformed and beautifully refurbished into a highly public Library, Children’s Library, Art Archive and new Members Lounge. The transformation acknowledges the original Sulman Award winning wing, by extending and enhancing distinctive elements such as the GRC ceiling grid in a new contemporary way.
It is delightful to wander through and now have access to this important art book collection which serves as the National Art Archive, beautifully displayed in custom joinery with specialist lighting. There is significant care and attention given to the detailing of each furniture piece throughout, evidence of a great collaboration with skilled designers such as Tom Fereday.
The Children’s library is whimsical and inviting yet sophisticated, it’s wall seating element invites small minds to take a book and find a niche to read. The repurposing of existing wintergardens and clever skylight enclosure of the Members Lounge, expands the area available for public use. Upgrades to adjoining amenities, a volunteers area and theatre foyer space enhance and provide improved amenity for public and staff activities.
The Jury congratulates Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects and team for an exquisitely resolved project."
The Sydney Modern Project is a once-in-a-generation transformation of the Art Gallery of NSW, creating an art museum campus. The original gallery has been upgraded to mirror the quality of the new SANAA designed building. The refurbishment of Lower Level 3 is a significant component of the revitalisation and has established a hub for learning, scholarship, and community engagement as well as providing improved visitor amenity and accessibility.
The new and expanded public-facing Research Library includes the National Art Archive, and the country’s first Children’s Art Library. The new Members Lounge has more than doubled in space and includes access to an external landscaped courtyard.
