Canvas Projects were engaged by the City of Banyule to develop a preliminary concept design for the construction of a new contemporary library facility at the site of the existing Rosanna Library This project provides an opportunity for Council and the Yarra Plenty Regional Library to obtain a contemporary library facility with significantly increased floor space which will service future community needs and cater for population growth in the area. It is envisaged that the newRosanna Library will exemplify current trends in library design and innovation, technology, collaborative learning, and community spaces and will offer a vital community hub that is inclusive and welcoming to all patrons, acknowledging the diversity in age, ability, and ethnicity of the community that it supports.
The proposed new building footprint is sited to maximise solar gains through orientation and retain as much of the significant existing vegetation as possible. The building envelope responds to the canopies of the existing trees which both shade the building fabric and provide aspect from views internally. The spatial requirements of the library necessitated the split of the collection over multiple levels.Generous void areas, a tiered reading terrace and open stairs provide visual connections through the library. A large skylight located over the central void allows natural light to penetrate to the centre of the facility.
The proposed new entrance sits across the road from main entry of Rosanna Station, and is defined by a generous enveloping masonry archway. This gesture references the masonry arch entry of the existing library in the new development as acknowledgment of the cultural heritage of the arrival experience at this site.
