Originally constructed in 1972, the brutalist TL Robertson Library is Curtin University’s largest and most historic building. Its refurbishment sought to redefine the purpose of the campus library, shifting away from preserving books towards prioritising social connection and a sense of community.

The library’s collection of books was consolidated and relocated to a high-density compactus system, freeing up space to accommodate a spectrum of learning settings; from social learning on the lower floors to silent study areas on the upper floors. The relocation of services enabled the addition of a new seventh level, with an event space that allows the library to host functions for up to 200 guests.

The previously enclosed building has been redefined to enhance its permeability and accessibility, with more legible entries, open floor plates and light-filled spaces, positioning the library as a beacon at the heart of the campus.

Furniture: Simon James, District, Norman Copenhagen, District,Softline, Cult, Nau, Cult, FourReal, Castledex, +Halle , Castledex, SBW, Castledex, Thinking Works, Stylecraft, Adapt, Stylecraft, Skeehan, Stylecraft, Rumba Workstation, Zenith Interiors, Profim nee RBM, DesignFarm, Karo, Schiavello, Kase, Schiavello, Made Furniture. Lighting: DOT, KOPA, Zumtobel , Light Forms, Climar, Olev, Klik, XERO, Forma Lighting, Unios, Phillips, Light Culture. Finishes: Hoop Pine Ply, World Wide Timber Traders, Clean Touch Laminate, World Wide Timber Traders, Acoustic Panels/Baffles, Autex, Blackbutt Timber, Sculptform & World Wide Timber Traders, Myaree Ceramics, Artedomus, Metal Mesh, Locker Group, Vinyl, Armstrong, Linoleum, Forbo, Nora Rubber, Interface, Nova, Shw Carpet, COVRD, Tretford, COVRD, Sureteco, Laminex, Polytec, Fenix, Corian, CASF, Kvadrat, Kvadrat Maharam, Neylor, Warwick, Instyle, COVRD, Dulux. Fittings & Fixtures: Caroma, GWA, Dorf, GWA, Billi, Britex, Windsor, Aqualoo, CBS, Living Edge, Hafele, Pure Concepts, Initial, Criterion, Mila Wall, Neylor, Metlam, Fisher & Paykel, Harvey Norman Commercial, Miele, Harvey Norman Commercial, Hisense, Harvey Norman Commercial, LG, Harvey Norman Commercial, Tork, Bradley, Statewide, Reece, DTAC, Clipsal

Photography: Dion Robeson