Townsville City Libraries

One of the design challenges was transforming the previously internally-focused and dark performance space into a connected and inviting library layout. Significant structural changes were made to open up areas of this space and create views towards the swimming lagoon and river, allowing natural light to flood in.

The library boasts a variety of spaces designed for both quiet contemplation and collaborative work. There are quiet reading nooks, collaborative booths, share tables, and meeting rooms, strategically located with views of the river. Youth and children’s spaces are thoughtfully placed, and a Parents Room has been added to the existing public amenities.

The architectural approach embraces organic and curved forms to contrast with the original building’s bold angular shapes, taking inspiration from the adjacent river and lagoons. A significant curving ‘curtain’ feature runs through the foyer and main library spaces, creating a human-scale ambiance within the former ‘black box’ performance space. This unique design element defines the library space and establishes a distinct visual identity for the library, paying homage to the former use of stage curtains in the performance spaces while blending harmoniously with the adjacent river landscape.

The café tenancy has been carefully designed to cater to the library and art gallery while also providing an outward-facing offering that is accessible to visitors of the lagoon and parklands. The inclusion of the “Changing Places” Adult Accessible Change Facility in a publicly accessible location adds an important function to the overall Riverway precinct.

A significant aspect of the library’s brief is the MixHaus Makerspace, which includes acoustically treated Digital Studios and a large, flexible studio space for various types of “making”. This area has its own external access point, allowing trusted users to access the facility after hours, providing a valuable resource for the Townsville community.