Library North refurbishment

User experience was at the forefront of the transformation of the Barr Smith Library North building.

Barr Smith Library entrance from lawns

Informed by the Barr Smith Library Refurbishment Plan 2023, this multi-year project has delivered refurbished space that is welcoming, flexible, and encourages students to dwell on campus, with designated places for socialising and collaboration (level 1), quiet study (level 2) and staff offices (level 4).

Works were a continuation of the Barr Smith Library level 1 refurbishment, completed in 2018.

Project overview

  • Location: Levels 1, 2 and 4, Barr Smith Library (North), North Terrace Campus
  • Size: 2,000m2
  • Cost: $3m
  • Architect: baukulter
  • Builder: Sarah Construction
  • Signage: Studio Piñata
  • Services Engineer: System Solutions Engineering Pty Ltd
  • Structural Engineer: CPR Engineers
  • Project team: Rob Newcombe, Beth Dixon

Features

  • Stylish, clearly defined spaces for collaboration, quiet study and socialising.
  • An automated glass northern entrance from the Barr Smith Lawns, improving access and choice of access through the North Terrace campus.
  • A new Indigenous cultural space (Tirkanthi Yangadlitya) and Yarning Circle with links to the Yaitya Ngutupira resource area.
  • Renovated bathrooms on level 1.
  • A new student kitchenette with adjacent social space. 
  • A new staff kitchen on level 4.
  • New furniture, carpet, lighting, flooring, paint and furnishings throughout.
  • Transformation of the Reading Room atrium with study booths, soft furnishings, plants and sleep pods.
  • Increased connection to the outdoors with more windows and improved view of gardens.
  • Improved internal and external wayfinding and signage.

Tirkanthi Yangadlitya completed in February 2024.
Other works completed in February 2025.

Gallery