"We believe the contemporary library is a place of study open to the world outside, full of noisy discussion of new ideas while still providing space for quieter contemplation." John Wardle

In May 2004, Melbourne Grammar School announced John Wardle Architects as the winner of a design competition for a landmark building on Domain Road, establishing a new front door for the school.  The Centre for Learning and Leadership will integrate library and information technology functions, and include a 240 seat lecture theatre and administration centre.

The subject of learning becomes the face of the campus through a transparent library envelope. The emphasis is on providing an active space with access to knowledge in a variety of media, electronic as well as traditional forms. The library elevation is an open glass façade that exposes rows of books as well as thriving companion activities, symbolically representing both a repository of knowledge and a shift to a more open and engaging institution.

The entry on Domain Road will be expressed as a slice through the new building that reveals the West Quadrangle’s1858 facade.

Client
Melbourne Grammar School

Awards
Victorian Architecture Medal AIA
Premier's Design Mark Award, State of Design 2008
National Award for Public Architecture AIA
The Emil Soderstan Award for interior Architecture AIA
William Wardell Public Architecture Award AIA Victoria

Date Completed
2008

Photography
Trevor Mein
Peter Hyatt