The final apartments in the most recently completed new development in Balwyn present some of the largest and most exclusive ever delivered in one of Melbourne’s most established and character-rich neighbourhoods.

Boutique developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wulff-projects">Wulff Projects</a>,&nbsp;alongside partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pga-group">PGA Group</a>, has just finished <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/threadneedle-balwyn-1-5-threadneedle-street-balwyn-vic-3103">Threadneedle</a>, 17 home-sized residences designed completely for the owner-occupier.

Named after its location on Threadneedle Street, the new project has been shaped by the heritage fabric of Balwyn. It offers two low-rise buildings of eight and nine apartments respectively, designed to emulate traditional standalone homes.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355582]

John Scaramuzzino, Director at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, explains the design intention.

“Given the quiet residential character of the street with many homes dating back to the 1930s and 1940s, we approached Threadneedle wanting to appear less as a collection of apartments and more as a traditional residence. This led to creating not one but two buildings that could “breathe” with larger garden-based apartments functioning more like small homes.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355605]

The north-facing residences are nestled among extensive landscaped gardens by Ben Scott Garden Design, with over one-third of the site dedicated to greenery. The resulting setting is one of calm seclusion, where architecture and landscape work in tandem to offer immediate liveability.

With construction now complete, the final apartments include a top-floor, single-level penthouse residence priced from $2.8 million. This home offers three bedrooms, a dedicated study, two bathrooms plus powder room, and three car spaces with an oversized storage room.&nbsp;

Interiors prioritise spatial comfort and natural light, with three-metre-high ceilings, oversized internal doors and a full-width terrace oriented to the north, east and west.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355604]

Floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows ensure thermal performance across seasons, supported by automated external blinds, zoned heating and cooling, and a fireplace for added ambiance.

Each apartment has been individually designed to maximise privacy and garden outlooks. Kitchens combine refined finishes with practical considerations: stone benchtops, butler’s pantry, full-height joinery and concealed rangehoods.&nbsp;

The inclusion of dedicated home offices responds to contemporary living patterns, while bathrooms feature sculptural bathtubs and brushed nickel fixtures.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355590]

Threadneedle also integrates best-practice sustainability measures, achieving a 7 Star average NatHERS rating. Initiatives include solar PV systems, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and irrigation, and high-performing building insulation. These elements enhance daily comfort while reducing ongoing maintenance and energy demand.

"We believe Threadneedle sets a new standard of design excellence and building quality for Balwyn,"&nbsp;Scaramuzzino added.

"It’s an architectural response we’re particularly proud of, and one we’re sure residents will be equally proud to call home."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27816]

Staff Writer

Final homes remaining as Threadneedle, Balwyn completes construction

Joel Robinson

Sydney's top 15 new apartments developments set to launch in 2026

Developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a> has pushed beyond the now-standard inclusions of rooftop pools and landscaped podiums at its recently launched new Epping project, Senso.

It has laid out over 4,000 sqm of resident-only amenity in a move designed to compete directly with low-density housing on livability, not just density. The result is a development that supports genuine daily use through purposeful spaces distributed across its five-building, 479-apartment precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Two rooftop pools form the anchor of Senso. One is a 27-metre lap pool adjoining a heated spa, designed for everyday fitness rather than just summer leisure. The second sits on a lower podium, allowing different buildings to share in vertical access and reducing crowding during peak times.

It is the secondary spaces that start to distinguish Senso from other large-scale suburban projects. A rooftop cinema is integrated into a landscaped terrace, offering open-air screenings with natural ventilation and passive cooling.&nbsp;

The inclusion of a “sensory walk”, an elevated boardwalk that threads through the site, suggests a rare investment in non-commercial, non-essential amenity: space for quiet movement that doesn’t double as access or traffic circulation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4402]

The gym and wellness centre, often relegated to a small ground-floor room in many builds, takes on more substance here. Residents have access to a fully equipped gym, as well as outdoor yoga areas and meditative zones that integrate greenery and natural light.&nbsp;

The Club Lounge is similarly designed to support multiple use cases, with a private dining terrace, kitchenette, workspace, and lockable wine storage. These aren’t superficial additions; their scale and spatial allocation indicate serious intent for frequent resident use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4391]

Importantly, Senso’s amenities are embedded within a site that spans more than 10,000 sqm, allowing for better separation between spaces and reduced noise spillover, a critical but often overlooked factor in high-density developments. This spatial generosity also enables multiple alfresco kitchens and communal terraces without compromising individual privacy or usable space.

While many developments make claims about lifestyle, few back it with this level of built infrastructure. Senso’s mix of dedicated fitness, wellness, social and passive green spaces suggests a conscious response to the post-pandemic shift in housing expectations, especially among owner-occupiers.&nbsp;

DASCO is one of several leading developers who have taken out Resilience Insurance's Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing buyers with a 10-year structural and waterproofing warranty, and giving them the ultimate peace of mind.

Senso is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

The outdoor amenities elevating life at Senso, Epping

Following the proposal by the Minns Labor Government to rezone Parramatta Road to create up to 8,000 new homes, prominent developer Ceerose has gone to the NSW Gov to increase the density of its new mixed-use residential building in Leichhardt.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/ceerose">Ceerose</a>, founded by Edward Doueihi nearly three decades ago, has filed plans for 154 apartments above ground-floor retail at 307-315 Parramatta Road, a key corner site near Norton Street, the main high street strip in Leichhardt.

It's an upsize from the previously approved scheme of 63 apartments across a seven-storey building.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba1ae75b-5f08-43fb-b8d5-3de6d9f6ef71" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.39%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yA3hBBLPH4ev7MsAE0_hieXeqiFqBUb7" />

The project is being advanced through the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, with concurrent rezoning sought to facilitate the proposal. The 10-storey development would rise over a four-level basement and deliver two retail tenancies, one a larger-format offering and the other a smaller “hole in the wall” space, addressing the Parramatta Road frontage. 21 of the apartments are dedicated as affordable housing.

According to the Urban Design Report by Architecture AND, the scheme includes a podium and tower configuration, with a fine-grain, two-storey parapet street wall that references the traditional shopfront rhythm along the corridor. “An elegant tower form is proposed, combined with a characterful two storey frontage... articulating it as two related buildings, providing consistency with the rhythm and grain of Parramatta Road,” the report notes.

The residential component is split across two slender towers set back from the street edge, a design move aimed at preserving solar access and reducing perceived bulk. This massing strategy also seeks to improve residential amenity by focusing scale toward the quieter northern interface, away from Parramatta Road’s noise and pollution.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="347f2f8f-5d36-4388-b40a-2e77380b9c19" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.02%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=xvyUE2ujT1lzivXTo.mHBJFF4SmfgLtz" />

Architecture AND has worked with Ceerose on previous Inner West projects, and cites a deep familiarity with the local character. Their design draws heavily on context, heritage, and sunlight access considerations, and engages with the Inner West Council’s “Our Fairer Future” strategic planning framework.

The site spans 2,712 sqm and is located near key intersections with Catherine Street, Hay Street, and Redmond Street. It adjoins a public carpark to the north and is within walking distance of Stanmore and Petersham stations. It is also flagged in state and local planning strategies, including the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, as a suitable candidate for increased density.

Ceerose recently completed The Alex Collective on McEvoy Street in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay.

The Parramatta Road corridor is coming to life with the proposed rezoning which is serviced by a significant number of bus, light rail and train routes.

Deicorp is progressing with its $1.8 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> precinct on Parramatta Road in Five Dock, as is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/toga-to-push-on-with-five-dock-mixed-use-masterplan">TOGA further down the street</a>. Those two projects alone will bring nearly 2,000 new homes to Parramatta Road.

First look: Ceerose plots mixed-use Leichhardt development on Parramatta Road

North Sydney's landmark 'SBS Building' on Alfred Street is set to be demolished to make way for a new mixed-use residential tower in the booming North Sydney.

Commercial property group FiveX is behind the plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">39-storey tower</a>, the latest project to advance under the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

They are proposing 184 apartments above retail spaces, which will replace the existing 20-storey commercial building. FiveX was set up more than five decades ago by Joshua and Marko Berger. It is currently led by Joshua's son Lesli.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower at 275 Alfred Street, North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2efa0980-53fa-4cca-9f9e-9c3c845d4746" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29%20%281%29_0.png?VersionId=y_YyPMq3NQLfYRs84pP4os9UgWiMLp75" />

According to the Architectural Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>, the slender tower form has been deliberately designed to respect the site's transitional setting at the southern gateway to the North Sydney CBD, where high-rise towers give way to lower-scale residential precincts.

"The slender tower form and articulated podium establish a respectful relationship with nearby heritage and low rise buildings, including the Whaling Road Heritage Conservation Area,” the architecture firm noted, adding that the tower “completes a missing link in the urban fabric” while enhancing the Alfred Street streetscape.

The proposed building will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with 15 percent of the gross residential floor area allocated as affordable housing. There is an agreement already in place that those apartments will be managed by Evolve Housing.

The project aligns with broader state housing objectives, including the National Housing Accord target of delivering 1.2 million new homes by 2029. The Scoping Report filed with the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) suggests the site "presents no impediments to rapid delivery,” with construction able to commence within 12 months of receiving consent.

North Sydney has been one of the most popular suburbs in Sydney for new and off the plan apartment development, but hasn't had the supply to keep up with demand, until recently.

AURA by Aqualand was, for a long time, the only off the plan apartment building on the market. That completed last year, and has sold the majority of its 386 luxury apartments. Recently ALAND launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-173-179-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> on the same street, selling over $100 million within just a few hours of its launch, while developer CASA also launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-mclaren-north-sydney-45-mclaren-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The McLaren</a>&nbsp;in the same precinct.

First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney

State Library of Victoria

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A free exhibition at the State Library Victoria will display photographs of Melbourne’s mid-century architecture for the first time.  Opening Saturday 1 December 2018, 'Peter Wille: Out Driving' will feature small and large scale reproductions from the Library’s collection of more than 6,000 colour slides by architectural draughtsman, design enthusiast and amateur photographer Peter Wille.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/62_eltham_borland.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Peter Wille, photographer | Kevin Borland, architect | Rice House, Eltham | Completed 1954, reproduction of colour slide, H91.244/566"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/62_eltham_borland.png?itok=9ISBi0PE" title="Peter Wille, photographer | Kevin Borland, architect | Rice House, Eltham | Completed 1954, reproduction of colour slide, H91.244/566" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Peter Wille, photographer | Kevin Borland, architect | Rice House, Eltham | Completed 1954, reproduction of colour slide, H91.244/566</figcaption></figure>The exhibition will showcase a period of experimental design – from post-war austerity to the height of modernism – featuring the groundbreaking work of architects including Robin Boyd, Peter McIntyre, Kevin Borland, and John and Phyllis Murphy.

It will also explore how the types of buildings in four areas of Melbourne reflect their environment. Suburbs will include South Yarra and Toorak in the south east, Kew in the east, Beaumaris, Aspendale and Frankston in bayside, and the outer suburbs of Eltham and Warrandyte.

<blockquote>
"These images give a unique and candid insight into a period of pioneering Australian architecture.  

Wille’s passion for design is evident in his dedication to amassing this significant survey of Melbourne’s mid-century buildings. 

Setting out with just his car and his camera, Wille captured almost two decades of design and social history.”

- Eve Sainsbury, Exhibition curator
</blockquote>

The free exhibition will be open daily, with a curator talk on Tuesday 12 February.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/52_warrandyte_hipwell.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Peter Wille, photographer | John Hipwell, architect | Hipwell House, Warrandyte | Completed 1953, reproduction of colour slide, H91.244/3095"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="397" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/52_warrandyte_hipwell.png?itok=BR0tZaTw" title="Peter Wille, photographer | John Hipwell, architect | Hipwell House, Warrandyte | Completed 1953, reproduction of colour slide, H91.244/3095" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Peter Wille, photographer | John Hipwell, architect | Hipwell House, Warrandyte | Completed 1953, reproduction of colour slide, H91.244/3095</figcaption></figure><h2>Exhibitions and events details:</h2>

Peter Wille: Out Driving exhibition 
Free entry. Open daily from 1 December 10am–6pm (Open until 9pm on Thursdays) 
Location: South Rotunda, State Library Victoria

Lead image: Peter Wille, photographer | Robin Boyd, architect | Neptune’s Fishbowl, South Yarra | Completed 1970, reproduction of colour slide, H91.244/739
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Laurence Dragomir

Melbourne's mid-century architecture on display in new State Library Victoria photography exhibition

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As part of its $88 million redevelopment, the State Library of Victoria (SLV) is providing Victorian apprentices, trainees and cadets with the opportunity to help with its transformation as part of its Vision 2020. The expansive project will create additional space for public use, restore and reopen the Ian Potter Queen’s Hall, and reinstate the historic Russell Street entrance.

The State Library opened in 1856 and welcomes over 2 million visitors each year through its doors, making it Australia's oldest and busiest public library. Within its walls there are 5.1 million items ranging from books and manuscripts, to photographs, music, art and ephemera.

Such is the importance of the State Library to Victorians that the CBD North Station will be named State Library Station as part of the $11bn Melbourne Metro project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/baldwin_spencer_v05_tweaked_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Additional public space will be created as part of the State Library's $88m revamp. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/baldwin_spencer_v05_tweaked_0.jpg?itok=hLqFhDwr" title="Additional public space will be created as part of the State Library's $88m revamp. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Additional public space will be created as part of the State Library's $88m revamp. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>The project forms part of the State Government’s Major Projects Skills Guarantee initiative, meaning apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets are required to carry out at least 10 per cent of total labour hours.

Designed by Architectus and the Danish-based practice, Schmidt Hammer Lassen, the redevelopment has had 19,800 workhours completed, with 2,100 of them completed by seven apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets

This exceeds the 10 per cent target, and has provided opportunities for architecture student Sarah Ianno, and other young workers to fine-tune their skills and get valuable experience.  Sarah had the opportunity to work on the project alongside the Architectus team while on an industry placement at the company and now works at Architectus part-time whilst finishing her degree.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tic_v03_tweaked.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The State Library revamp has been designed by Architectus and Denmark's Schmidt Hammer Lassen. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tic_v03_tweaked.jpg?itok=g6jaqPjY" title="The State Library revamp has been designed by Architectus and Denmark's Schmidt Hammer Lassen. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The State Library revamp has been designed by Architectus and Denmark's Schmidt Hammer Lassen. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Working on the State Library of Victoria project while I was a student gave me first-hand experience of collaborating with a team of designers on a complex project and seeing how everyone works together to produce a successful outcome. Not only was I working within the Architectus team, but I was also working with suppliers seeing how all the moving parts in a project come together – a highly beneficial experience for someone new to the industry.

One of the most valuable things I learnt was the use of the Building Information Modelling tool Revit. This serves as a streamlined communication tool across the planning, design, construction and management of a project, promoting better collaboration between everyone involved. When I returned to university after my placement, I could see just how much I’d learnt in the short period of time – it’s definitely helped to further my studies.

I particularly enjoyed being involved in the selection of furniture and finishes within the Library, ensuring we adhered to our sustainability considerations. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work on this iconic Melbourne project. It’s a significant milestone at such an early stage of my design career.

- Sarah Ianno, Student of Architecture, Architectus
</blockquote>

The Victorian State Government is providing $60.4 million worth of funding towards the project with the remaining $27.7 million coming via philanthropic support.

Built commenced construction last year with an anticipated completion in 2020, and 125 jobs created during the redevelopment.
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State Library looks to the future for its revamp

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The State Library of Victoria has secured final philanthropic funding from the Hasen Little Foundation that will allow the library's Vision 2020 transformation to kick off in earnest.

As previously reported on <a href="/news/the-state-library-of-victorias-2020-vision">Urban.com.au</a>, the SLV's Vision 2020 includes opening up 40% more space for public use throughout the complex which has had a long history of additions over the years.  

The $88 million transformation is majority funded by the State Government to the tune of $60 million with the remainder coming from philanthropic sources - the Hansen Little Foundation's contribution completes the library's fundraising target of $27.7 million.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hansen-hall-750x422.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Render of the new Hansen Hall - image: SLV"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hansen-hall-750x422.jpg?itok=v_7IXH-T" title="Render of the new Hansen Hall - image: SLV" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Render of the new Hansen Hall - image: SLV</figcaption></figure>According to the <a href="https://vision2020.slv.vic.gov.au/news/hansen-little-foundation-gives-3-5-million-gift-of-connection">SLV</a>

<blockquote>
Hansen Hall will be a new focal point for Library visitors, combing heritage architecture with a contemporary look and feel.  It will represent the features of a 21st-century library in a lively and dynamic area where visitors can meet, connect and collaborate.

Jane Hansen said that a passion for education connects the Hansen Little Foundation and State Library Victoria.

“The beautiful environment of the refurbished Hansen Hall will provide a light-filled free space where people can work and enjoy a coffee while still able to access the Library’s extensive facilities and expert staff.  By working together, we can help more people achieve their learning goals in an inspiring and welcoming environment.
</blockquote>

The Hansen Little Foundation's gift will also fund the Library's new Conversation Quarter which is set to include facilities that will enable two-way digital broadcast technology to "take Library events and programs to schools and homes around Australia and bring the world's best events and experiences to Melbourne"

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RENEUw2T0R4" width="100%"></iframe>

The Minister for Creative Industries, Martin Foley, welcomed the latest donation.

<blockquote>
The Hansen Little Foundation’s generosity means that more people than ever have access to learning, education and quality programming, allowing young minds to reach their potential, wherever they may be.

This donation means the State Library has achieved its fundraising goal of $27.7 million and is a great example of how collaborative approaches can provide a successful and a sustainable way to generate funding for new and innovative projects.
</blockquote>

The following video profiles changes that will occur as part of the SLV's Vision 2020 transformation.

<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FDanielAndrewsMP%2Fvideos%2F1516460138418517%2F&amp;show_text=0&amp;width=560" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" width="100%"></iframe>

The Hansen Hall and Conversation Quarter are set to open in 2019.
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Alastair Taylor

State Library of Victoria's Vision 2020 kicks off after securing philanthropic support

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The State Library of Victoria is set to undergo further transformation as part of the library's $88.1 million 2020 Vision. The Ian Potter Queen’s Hall and a number of gallery spaces are set to be reopened to the public as multi-functional spaces after many years behind closed doors.

Great halls, intersections between old and recent building additions and defunct lobbies and entrances will be transformed into welcoming spaces for learning, playing, socialising, and listening.

The designs for the project by Architectus in association with Denmark's Schmidt Hammer Lassen will reintroduce 40 percent more space to the public, including the significant historic refurbishment and reconfiguration of the Queen’s Hall and the Russell Street entrance. 

The upgrade will also see the introduction of a Children’s Quarter, with the theme of learning weaved throughout the design of the Library.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/kids_quarter_loft_v04_tweaked.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The State Library's new Children's Quarter. Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kids_quarter_loft_v04_tweaked.jpg?itok=e1EDl-SP" title="The State Library's new Children's Quarter. Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The State Library's new Children's Quarter. Image supplied</figcaption></figure>The Victorian Government is providing $60.4 million worth of funding towards the project with the remaining $27.7 million to be raised through philanthropic support. Already the library has raised $21 million with $3 million from Maria and Allan Myers QC, $8 million from the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation and $10 million from the Ian Potter Foundation.

Yesterday's announcement also coincided with the launch of a public fundraising campaign to raise the remaining $5.9 million required.

<blockquote>
The revitalisation of the State Library of Victoria will see 40 percent more space released to the public with the opening of the Ian Potter Queen’s Hall, The Victoria Gallery, the Russell Street entry, the Banquet Hall, as well as welcoming new rooms like the Children’s Quarter.
If Melbourne is a city of rooms, then the 160-year old Ian Potter Queen’s Hall is the jewel in the crown. Ensconced in history, the Hall will be reopened to the public after more than a decade. We’re stripping the space back to reveal its original beauty, literally stripping the walls to expose the original paint work, while drawing a modern design line through the Hall and the rest of the Library to link all the rooms together.
The Ian Potter Queen’s Hall will by day be a reading room, but by night will be transformed into a space for a variety of events – dinners, debates, lectures, cocktail parties, fashion parades, book launches – the opportunities are endless. 
The Russell Street entrance will offer another activation point to the Library, while encouraging movement through the buildings and bringing to life a side of the Library that has long been quiet. The new entrance will also relieve some of the foot traffic from the Swanston Street main entrance by providing a social space for people to visit as they wait for the Library to open, or to pass through for a coffee. Housing a Readings bookshop, a coffee cart and co-working space, the Russell Street entrance will open new ways for visitors to experience the Library.
We’ve been lucky enough to collaborate with an architecture firm that is world renowned for its work on libraries. Schmidt Hammer Lassen has brought invaluable knowledge and creativity to the table, challenging us to approach the State Library with international ingenuity.
Schmidt Hammer Lassen have designed many of the world’s leading 21st Century libraries, and they are at the forefront of exploring everything a library can mean for today’s cities. Architectus has the ability to bring this rich experience to our home town, and this means that the Library gets the best international thinking with a team that lives and breathes the local context, and can deliver the project to the highest quality
<cite>Ruth Wilson, Director, Architectus</cite>
</blockquote>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rj9UeGsczGs" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>Key design features</h2>

<ul>
<li>
Queen’s Hall: positioned on the upper floor of the Swanston Street entrance, the Queen’s Hall was part of the original 1856 build, but has been closed for 15 years. One of Melbourne’s very special rooms, it is set to be reopened as a reading room for the public during the day and transformed into an events space at night to host anything from lavish weddings to political debates. The designs will see the walls stripped back to the original 1856 paint work to connecting the past to now, as well as repairing the original timber herringbone floor.</li>
	<li>
Russell Street entrance: taking the strain off foot traffic through the Swanston street entrance, the Russell Street entrance will be reopened as a welcome space with a café, Readings bookshop and information kiosk, as well as a co-working space for budding businesses and entrepreneurs.</li>
	<li>
Children’s Quarter: Housed in the intersection between four building additions from different periods, the Children’s Quarter will open the doors for the future generations of library-goers, with a wide variety of spatial experiences that were imagined through extensive workshops and consultation with young people – from quiet nooks to self-guided learning, to bright and colourful play spaces that encourage children to be anything they want to be.</li>
</ul>
The delivery of Vision 2020 is being managed by Major Projects Victoria with construction due to commence in July 2017.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/baldwin_spencer_v05_tweaked.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The State Library's new spaces set to open to the public. Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/baldwin_spencer_v05_tweaked.jpg?itok=6Zk7Z5pw" title="The State Library's new spaces set to open to the public. Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The State Library's new spaces set to open to the public. Image supplied</figcaption></figure>
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The State Library of Victoria's 2020 vision

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It's a prime CBD site that has been under constant redevelopment ever since the 1850s and this decade is set to be no different. The Minister for Creative Industries, Martin Foley, announced in the last week of April that the State Library of Victoria (SLV) will receive $55.4 million dollars in the upcoming State Budget which will see a further 1,000 square metres of public-use space opened up.

The Library is also set to receive a further $28 million in philanthropic support and when that money is combined with the State Government contribution, the SLV plans to re-open the Russell Street entrance, create dedicated children and youth learning space, improve conference facilities and create a centre for digital media.

The SLV looks also set to be a hotspot for entrepreneurship as spaces for hot-desking and collaboration will be included in the library post redevelopment.

Accompanying the development announcement, the SLV has uploaded two videos to its Youtube channel. One video takes us on a journey through the evolution of the site from the 1850s and the other video is a profile of the next chapter of redevelopment. Check them both out:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/prIIBRk4KH8" width="100%"></iframe>

From the <a href="http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/redevelopment-project">SLV's site</a> they key outcomes on the next chapter of redevelopment are:

<blockquote>
<ul>
<li>Restoring historic Queen’s Hall as a public reading room and building new rooftop garden terrace.</li>
	<li>Reopening the Russell Street entrance alongside a new major exhibition space, as well as cafe, retail and visitor services.</li>
	<li>Establishing an innovation hub that incorporates a centre for entrepreneurship to support Victorian enterprises, and a centre for digital media with e-Town Hall facilities to provide access to the latest communication technologies and connect with regional centres and public libraries across the state.</li>
	<li>Creating new dedicated spaces for children and young learners to support families in fostering early literacy and a love of reading.</li>
	<li>Reconfiguring the dome annulus galleries into open-access collection areas with more study spaces and a VIP lounge.</li>
	<li>Refurbishing the theatre and conference facilities to meet industry standards.</li>
	<li>Relocating staff office areas to open up more public space.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0QuJXxIR02s" width="100%"></iframe>

Lead image credit: SLV. <a href="http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/redevelopment-project">See the full gallery</a> of redevelopment renders.
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The next chapter in the State Library of Victoria's long lifetime

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304–328 Swanston Street, Melbourne
 
1854-1856 Joseph Reed; 1870 Reed and Barnes; 1906–11 Bates, Peebles and Smart;
1951 Percy Everett, Public Works Department; 1990-98 Ancher, Mortlock and Woolley
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Library2pc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The State Library of Victoria as it looked soon after the completion of the Domed Reading Room."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Library2pc.jpg?itok=MDoy1B8c" title="The State Library of Victoria as it looked soon after the completion of the Domed Reading Room." typeof="Image"></a>
The decision to build a state library for Victoria was made in 1853 by Lieutenant-Governor Charles La Trobe and Mr Justice Redmond Barry. An architectural competition was held and a local architect, Joseph Reed was declared the winner with his submission of an academic classical design.
 
The foundation stone was laid in 1854 and in 1856 the library was officially opened with a collection of 3,800 books chosen by Mr Justice Redmond Barry.
 
In 1859 the first reading room, the barrel-vaulted Queen’s Reading Room (now Queen’s Hall) was opened.  Additional temporary structures were built in the rear facing Russell Street in 1866 for the Inter-colonial Exhibition and were in use until 1909.
 
Construction of the landmark Domed Reading Room begun in 1906 and was completed in 1911. The dome sits on a classically composed polygonal drum that rises over four levels and is punctuated by arched entrances/exits. It was designed by Bates, Peebles and Smart, and a for a short time after its completion, the Domed Reading Room was the world’s largest reinforced concrete dome. In 1959 the Domed Reading Room’s skylights were modified and covered in copper to stop water leaking into the room.
 
The library’s original grand plans made provision for inclusion of a museum and an art gallery. A museum of grand proportions was to be built facing Russell Street, however due to funding shortages a scaled back version was gradually built over the interwar years in a more austere restrained classical style. In the 1990s, the museum was moved to the Carlton Gardens in a new purpose built structure.  The State Library complex was also home to the National Gallery of Victoria until it was moved to its St Kilda Road address in the late 1960s.
 
Between 1990 and 2004 the State Library underwent a $200 million major refurbishment and redevelopment. The most notable of these refurbishments was the restoration of the Domed Reading Room, to allow the return of natural light into the space. It was renamed the La Trobe Reading Room when it was completed in 2003. Other developments included the construction of exhibition rooms and spaces that are used to house permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent exhibitions include, The Mirror of the World: Books and Ideas and The Changing Face of Victoria, both of which are on display in the upper level galleries of the La Trobe Reading Room. Other permanent exhibition rooms are the Cowen Gallery, along with the Stawell Gallery rooms on level 2a, which house a collection of oil paintings and portrait sculptures drawn from the Library’s Pictures Collection. Temporary exhibitions are held in the Keith Murdoch Gallery, which is entered from the foyer of the main entry on Swanston Street and like the Cowen and Stawell Galleries, used to be a former museum space. The construction of these exhibition spaces has made the Victorian State Library one of the largest exhibiting libraries in the world.
 
The library has moved into the twenty first century with the inclusion of exciting new visitor facilities. This includes Mr Tulk Café, named after the first librarian, Augustus H. Tulk, with its main entrance on La Trobe Street. A Readings Bookshop, is situated next to the library foyer and in 2010, the Wheeler Centre for Books, Writing and Ideas, was set up, with its entrance on Little Lonsdale Street. The Wheeler Centre was named after the Lonely Planet founders, Tony and Maureen Wheeler, who donated funds for its establishment.
 
The State Library of Victoria was the first public library in Australia and one of the first in the world. The library currently holds over two million books, hundreds of thousands of pictures, photographs, newspapers, maps and manuscripts, and has also amassed a large collection of audio, video and digital material. These collections reflect the culture of Victoria over the past 160 years, making the State Library of Victoria one of Melbourne’s greatest cultural icons! 
 
The website:
http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/
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State Library of Victoria

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