the aim of my design for the state library was to keep the most significant and historical parts of the original library, such as the dome, queens hall and the Redmond barry hall. I proposed to wrap the parts of the facade in
a bubble pattern with a netting design. this represents the coming of both new and old views of the library where the sense of the traditional library is being engulfed by the new. in this, I suggested having the more traditional programs of reading rooms and study areas kept within the original library. while the new additional parts of the library include programs that are considered unconventional or progressive such as the child care centre and an arts/media area. the glass texture of the bubble helps match other surrounding buildings within the Melbourne CBD, specifically the new structures. one of the original problems within the old library was that it was seen by many as an obstacle that prevented RMIT student and others from direct access to the new. I wanted to address this concern by opening up the library
more and create a pavilion area, where people can walk straight through the library to get to the new. I also addressed the urban design concern of the lack of greenery and open space within the CBD. as the front of the library is already a popular spot for people to sit and relax, I wanted to compliment this by adding more open space with contoured grass space
that elevates in between library spaces, giving a rooftop garden feel in two parts of the library. by implementing both the more open spaces and bubble features I hoped to bring more circulation within the library, as well as making a welcoming space that people would want to approach rather than avoid.