Byford Hall Library Refurbishment

The rapid growth of the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, primarily experienced in Byford, catalysed a review of the Shire’s office administration infrastructure by way of a needs assessment which considered the Shire Administration Centre, Library, Depot and Civic Centre and how these facilities could be both strategically located and prepared for a district population of over 100,000 in the next 20 years.

A new library has been flagged to be constructed within the Byford Town Centre on a site located directly adjacent to the future Byford Metronet Station; however, the Shire’s Community Infrastructure Developer Contribution Plan does not anticipate this new library to be constructed until 2026. Consequently, Hames Sharley assisted the Shire with an interim plan to refurbish Byford Hall and transform the 1960s building into a functional public library and administration space, serving the needs of the current population until the new library can be constructed.

The aspirations for this project were to deliver a library and community hub that connects, inspires, educates, informs and entertains, and one that brings people of all ages and cultures together in a safe environment. The design for the Byford Hall Library focuses on learning and social opportunities, with quiet spaces for study and information seeking, places to collaborate and multifunction spaces for events and programs, an accessible and visible collection display, space for exhibitions and recognition of the importance of lifelong learning and digital literacy. The building also provides modern office space and areas for storage, including appropriate storage for historical items.

This major refurbishment of the town hall into a modern educational and learning facility, undertaken in close consultation with a range of stakeholders, involved evaluation of building conditions prior to commencement of design services with consideration of the workplace environment and how it effects the staff and visitor experience.