Sydney City Library Building, Architect, Photos, Design, Refurbishment, Images

Sydney City Library : Customs House Building

Circular Quay Building, NSW, Australia – design by PTW

5 Dec 2008

Customs House Sydney

2005

PTW Architects in association with Tanner Architects & Lacoste+Stevenson

Location: Circular Quay, Sydney, Australia

Client: City of Sydney

Images: PTW Architects

The Customs House refurbishment has brought new vibrancy to this important part of Sydney’s heritage. The building now caters for a wide variety of uses including the Sydney City Library over the first three levels. At ground floor level an inviting series of public spaces include a colonnade and podium opening onto the forecourt area.

The insertion of French doors and improved access to the eastern café and western bar emphasise the new sense of engagement with the outdoor space. These changes required negotiations with both the NSW Heritage Council and the Australian Heritage Council and have been carried out in a ‘reversible’ manner. Internally the ground floor is an open meeting place and lobby, a ‘city lounge’ with a media salon as well as food and wine venues.

The giant City Model of the Sydney CBD is displayed at the base of the atrium beneath a glass floor. The upper floors feature the library, incorporating exhibition areas, restaurant and private function spaces.

Sydney City Library Building photos + information from PTW

PTW

Location: Circular Quay, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia