Bentleigh Library project
The redevelopment of the existing Bentleigh Library was a project by the local municipality to integrate youth services into the existing facility. The design of an extension added a further 600 m² to the facility to increase the library’s service offering to the public.
The existing building had been extended and altered a number of times over the years, which made for a patchy design outcome with different brick colours and styles being used. To tackle this issue of a non-cohesive design, a feature consisting of a perforated and corrugated anodised aluminium screen was developed to give the facility a new look, shade the proposed windows and reinvigorate interest in the facility.
Unfortunately communities are starting to lose interest in libraries. However, ROOT Architecture saw this as an opportunity to carry a library into the 21st century as, we believe, libraries should no longer be solely about books. They should transform into places of learning, engagement and community involvement. Due to this way of thinking, the project developed into a multi-generational, technology-loving and community-focused development that we are proud having been part of.