Ivanhoe Library & Cultural Hub

Location
Ivanhoe in Woiwurrung Country

About
The Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub is a testament to our commitment to uniting with the community to foster cultural expression and exchange. It serves as an all-inclusive haven where individuals are encouraged to engage in thought, study, creativity, and the enjoyment of a diverse array of cultural and educational experiences.

Respecting the historical significance of the 1930s Town Hall, this project employs a harmonious selection of materials, including bluestone, concrete, timber, and lush vegetation. This careful integration seamlessly melds the indoors with the outdoors and gracefully marries the old with the new. Our primary objective is to establish a warm, accessible, and vibrant hub where people can come together, connect, and engage in lifelong learning.

The landscape design has been thoughtfully crafted to navigate the challenging steep terrain of the site. It prioritizes compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), ensuring that every member of the community enjoys safe and equitable access to all areas of the hub. The expansive timber deck, tiered seating, and open plaza adjacent to the café and theatrette serve as versatile spaces for gatherings, outdoor performances, al fresco dining, and casual seating. A rooftop courtyard provides a serene outdoor setting where library visitors can relax, read, or study, further strengthening the bond between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

This design not only preserves but also enhances the natural beauty of the site. It safeguards the significant Moreton Bay Fig and Lemon Scented Gum trees, complementing them with additional canopy trees and predominantly indigenous plants. This celebration of the site’s history not only adds to its charm but also contributes to reducing the urban heat island effect while softening the building and hardscape elements.

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