Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture

Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, ShelvingWarrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Beam, HandrailWarrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Shelving, HandrailWarrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Exterior Photography, FacadeWarrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - More Images+ 14

Warrnambool, Australia
  • Clients: Department of Education and Training Victoria (DET), South West TAFE (SWT), Warrnambool City Council (WCC)
  • Collaborator: Bryce Raworth
  • Collaborators: TSA Management, Inhabit Group, Integral Group, Philip Chun & Associates, Studio Semaphore
  • City: Warrnambool
  • Country: Australia
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Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Exterior Photography, Facade
© Derek Swalwell

Text description provided by the architects. The Warrnambool Library and Learning Centre replace the existing local library with a much larger, brighter, and more accessible space in the heart of Warrnambool’s CDB. The new space is located on the South West TAFE campus and provides facilities for both the local community and South West TAFE students and staff. The space includes a modern indoor-outdoor café, public computers, exhibition and display areas, places to study and read, meeting rooms, a dedicated children’s area, and games and digital media zone. The project is the outcome of a partnership between the Victorian Government, South West TAFE, and Warrnambool City Council and realizes a vision to bring together education, community, and the arts.

Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Shelving
© Derek Swalwell

Drawing on extensive public consultation, the project’s conceptual framework pillars were:
• Delight - Natural light, connection with the outdoors, different light levels, light as a way to measure the passing of time.
• History, Heritage and Narrative - Ensuring the design reflects local history, heritage to support the creation of a compelling design narrative.
• The Third Place - Creating space for the exchange of ideas, enjoyment, and to create and build relationships.

The project included a new 3-storey contemporary building connected by a glazed linkway to the refurbished heritage-listed single-storey 1868 Orderly Room, one of nine buildings on site with heritage significance.

The linkway operates as a laneway that supports pedestrian connection through the campus, and clearly delineates the heritage-listed building from the new structure.

Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Shelving, Handrail
© Derek Swalwell
Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Image 14 of 19
Plan - Ground Floor Plan
Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Beam, Handrail
© Derek Swalwell

Another key device fitting the character of the old with the new is a “bridge” that creates an additional connection at the first-floor level where the original stage within the Orderly Room was located. Operating in a similarly performative manner, with landings offering space enough for seating or performances, the bridge also delivers views throughout both buildings. 

Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Shelving, Stairs, Handrail
© Derek Swalwell
Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Image 19 of 19
Reflected Ceiling Diagram
Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Kitchen, Beam
© Derek Swalwell

The curved façade of the contemporary building reveals curated views over Warrnambool and the ocean, with draped precast concrete defining the architectural language of the contemporary upper levels, as well as providing a backdrop for the adjacent heritage-listed Customs House. These animated forms allow the façade to peel away from glazing elements and curate views, as well as regulate daylight and shading throughout the design.

Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Interior Photography, Living Room, Column, Beam
© Derek Swalwell

The interiors reference both the Warrnambool CBD grid, established by Robert Hoddle, and the gridded coffered ceiling within the Orderly Room. This intentionally extends an existing architectural relationship with the city and the heritage building and serves to bind the contemporary and heritage buildings together. The grid and articulated ceiling manifest in the design throughout each new level, with differing ceiling arrangements acting as a contemporary deconstruction of the original ceiling.

Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Image 17 of 19
Elevations
Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Exterior Photography, Facade, Windows, Concrete
© Derek Swalwell

The environmental impact has been minimized via adaptive reuse of materials, wherever possible, and careful selection of long-life building materials requiring minimal. Landscaping supports local diversity and the long-term development of tree avenues. Rain gardens have also been installed.

Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture - Exterior Photography, Windows, Facade
© Derek Swalwell

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Project location

Address:Warrnambool VIC 3280, Australia

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre / Kosloff Architecture" 20 Feb 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/996766/warrnambool-learning-and-library-centre-kosloff-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

© Derek Swalwell

瓦南布尔图书馆与学习中心 / Kosloff Architecture

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