The University of Sunshine Coast Library simultaneously expresses the revolutionary changes in the role and nature of the University Library and the light and vitality of the Sunshine Coast region in a public scaled building. John Mainwaring Architects worked in association with Bligh Voller Nield on this highly successful project. Significantly, the building is the only structure within the grand linear court which therefore demands a degree of transparency, that is contrary to the introverted solid nature of libraries. The result is a reorganisation of the functions to provide a transparent glazed sub-tropical edge. The upper levels are protected by a large scale timber slatted verandah screen which filters light through the glass wall. The landscape masterplan was developed to accommodate a range of planted and pedestrian spaces around the building which complemented the building forum.

Awards

1998 Merit Award Winner
1997 RAIA National Sir Zelman Cowan Award
1997 RAIA QLD F.D.G Stanley Award for Public Buildings Architecture