Library wins development award

Docklands’ Library at The Dock has won the Property Council of Australia’s Victorian development of the year award.

The library was a finalist in three categories: innovation, best public building and best new sustainable development. The brainchild of architecture firms Clare Design and Hayball, the project was a tri-partnership between Lendlease, Places Victoria and the City of Melbourne.

Chair of the City of Melbourne’s environment portfolio, Cr Arron Wood, said the personality and history of Dockland’s was reflected in the building.

“The library pays homage to Docklands’ rich maritime heritage with reclaimed hardwood from the waterfront used throughout the building,” Cr Wood said.

Cr Wood said Docklands was Australia’s leading suburb in green development.

Opening in the middle of 2014, the library loaned out more than 1.6 million books before its first birthday. The library also houses music and sound collections, digital gaming facilities and a performance space.

Lendlease’s Victoria Harbour project director said: “Library at The Dock provides a place for culture, community interaction and learning and represents world leadership in sustainable design, but beyond that, it’s been critical in fostering a rich and diverse community in Victoria Harbour.”

The library is now in the running for the national award with the ceremony to be held in Sydney on Friday, June 3.