Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre by Kosloff Architecture: A Contemporary Hub for Learning and Community

The Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre, designed by Kosloff Architecture, is a landmark educational and cultural facility located in the heart of Warrnambool, Australia. Completed in 2021, this 2479 m² contemporary library and learning space replaces the former local library with a brighter, more accessible, and versatile environment that serves both the local community and South West TAFE students. Strategically situated on the South West TAFE campus, the centre integrates heritage architecture, sustainable design, and modern amenities to create a welcoming and vibrant public space.

A Multi-Functional Community and Educational Space

The project is a collaborative initiative between the Victorian Government, South West TAFE, and Warrnambool City Council, aimed at uniting education, community, and the arts. The centre features:

• A modern indoor-outdoor café for social interaction
• Public computer workstations and digital media zones
• Exhibition and display areas for art and educational content
• Study and reading spaces designed for focus and comfort
• Meeting rooms to facilitate collaboration
• A dedicated children’s area for learning and play

This multi-functional program emphasizes the concept of the “third place,” a social environment beyond home and work where community engagement, cultural exchange, and idea-sharing flourish.

Integrating Heritage and Contemporary Design

A standout feature of the project is the harmonious integration of heritage and contemporary architecture. The new three-storey building is linked to the refurbished heritage-listed 1868 Orderly Room via a glazed corridor that functions as a pedestrian laneway, ensuring both connectivity and distinction between old and new.

The design also incorporates a first-floor bridge, reminiscent of the original stage within the Orderly Room, providing flexible spaces for seating, performances, and panoramic views across both buildings. This thoughtful connection reinforces the dialogue between historical context and modern architecture.

Architectural Expression and Curated Views

The contemporary building features a curved façade crafted with draped precast concrete, which frames curated views of the Warrnambool CBD and the ocean. The façade’s dynamic forms peel away from glazing elements to regulate daylight and shading, enhancing both energy efficiency and user comfort. The exterior also complements the adjacent heritage-listed Customs House, balancing visual continuity with innovative design expression.

Inside, the interior design references the Warrnambool CBD grid, originally laid out by Robert Hoddle, while echoing the coffered ceiling of the heritage Orderly Room. Each level interprets this grid in a contemporary fashion, blending heritage character with modern aesthetics through varied ceiling arrangements, spatial articulation, and material choices.

Sustainability and Landscape Integration

Sustainability was a central consideration throughout the project. The design emphasizes:

• Adaptive reuse of materials to minimize environmental impact
• Use of durable, low-maintenance materials for longevity
• Landscaping that supports local biodiversity and tree avenue development
• Installation of rain gardens to manage water runoff and enrich the landscape

These strategies ensure that the Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre is not only architecturally compelling but also environmentally responsible, fostering a long-term legacy for both the city and the campus community.

The Warrnambool Learning and Library Centre is more than a library; it is a cultural, educational, and social hub that blends heritage preservation, contemporary architecture, and community engagement. Through innovative design, adaptive reuse, and thoughtful spatial planning, Kosloff Architecture has created a landmark that connects history, education, and social life in the heart of Warrnambool.

All photographs are works of Derek Swalwell