Art Gallery of NSW Library and Members Lounge
TZG’s intervention in the 1980s concrete form is clearly defined by warm spotted gum, arranged along the existing grid system of the original building, designed by Andrew Andersons of the Government Architect’s Office. The gridded ceiling is continued and polished floors extended, so that the new is empathetically united with the original.
Throughout the libraries, archives and Members Lounge, the colour palette of tan and green leather, light grey bouclé and rich brown hardwood recalls the area’s original forests. Sustainably sourced timber is part of building work that is intended to endure for many decades.
Re-use of construction reduces the need for demolition and new material, and the original building envelope’s thermal and moisture performance has been upgraded. In contrast to the warmth and depth of the library design, TZG chose white steel for the higher spaces at either end, to connect these spaces to the sky.
The National Art Archive gives access to items within the Gallery’s collection that were previously not available to the public. A purpose designed Study Room sits at the heart of the Archive, where rare materials can be viewed by appointment.
The new Members Lounge is more than double the size of the former space. The enlargement of the Domain Theatre’s foyer allows for much greater use for public screenings and lectures.
TZG worked in collaboration with designer Tom Fereday on the loose furniture and their organic curves to harmonise with TZG’s fitted furniture and joinery. TZG further collaborated with Sue Barnsley on the new courtyard garden, with Prism on the expanse of bespoke glazing, and with library lighting specialist RDO.
Awards
2024 ALIA Australian Library Design Award for Special Library.
2024 Australian Interior Design Award Commendation.
2024 IDEA Awards Highly Commended for Sustainability.
2024 IDEA Awards Highly Commended for Public Space.
2023 AIA NSW Architecture Award for Public Architecture.
2023 AIA NSW Architecture Commendation for Interior Architecture.
2023 Australia Timber Design Awards Furniture & Joinery.
2023 IES NSW Awards Lighting Design Award of Commendation.
Team
Peter Tonkin, Adam Madigan, Ciaran Acton, Julie Mackenzie, Brian Zulaikha, Matilda Watson, Edward Rosier, Lauren Sideris, Charlotte Evans, Daniel Jacobs, Sophie Hutchinson, Madeleine Gallagher, Roger O’Sullivan.
Collaborators
Tom Fereday, TZG Heritage.
Consultants
RDO, Prism, AGNSW Creative Studio, Sue Barnsley Design, SDA Structures, Bylett Associates, Philip Chun, Engtec, Arup, LCI Consultants, The Mack Group.
Contractor
Kane Constructions Pty Ltd.
Photographer
Cieran Murphy.
