This Library in Australia is Inspired by the Nearby Murray River

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Cobram Library & Learning Centre by CohenLeigh Architects

COBRAM LIBRARY & LEARNING CENTRE | COHENLEIGH ARCHITECTS

Description is provided by the architect. The Cobram Library & Learning Centre is a distinctively ‘local’ library, embracing emerging technologies & promoting flexible learning & library spaces across all ages.

How do you create a distinctively ‘local’ library?

[caption id="attachment_5879" align="alignnone" width="2000"] Cobram Library & Learning Centre by CohenLeigh Architects

Working closely with community stakeholders, the design process involved tracing the line of the nearby Murray River, then superimposing this as the cut line on a curvilinear timber battened screen.

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The result is a dynamic façade that wraps the perimeter of the library, filtering & throwing light into the internal library spaces. A central pathway & ceiling element, acting as a way-finding spine, runs through the centre of the library space. At its edges, a series of abstract punctuations on the perimeter allow for private & flexible break out spaces. The effect is a community space both highly flexible & adaptable.

[caption id="attachment_5880" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Cobram Library & Learning Centre by CohenLeigh Architects

Located on the site of the existing Civic Centre, it encompasses library spaces, reading spaces, community spaces & new technology areas. Conscious of its place & identity, it embodies and celebrates the idea of a ‘local’ library, with design language that is evocative of the popular Murray landscapes.

[caption id="attachment_5875" align="alignnone" width="1001"] Cobram Library & Learning Centre by CohenLeigh Architects