The Glasshouse @ The Gannawarra final designs released

Published on 22 February 2023

The development of a contemporary space at Kerang’s Sir John Gorton Library for new and emerging community programs is closer to becoming a reality following the release of The Glasshouse @ The Gannawarra’s final designs.

The Gannawarra Shire Council-led project, supported by $1.5 million from the State Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, will be incorporated into the already popular library space and foster increased community connectivity.

“Once completed, The Glasshouse @ The Gannawarra will be a unique attraction for the Gannawarra, enabling users to connect, collaborate, create and celebrate together,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“The facility’s attractions will also attract people across the region to the Gannawarra, thanks to the venue’s features that are commonplace in major regional and metropolitan areas.”

Residents were able have their say on the project’s initial designs during late August and early September 2022, with all feedback assisting with the development of the revised plans.

“One of the major topics to come out of this feedback was the need to incorporate ways to reduce the amount of heat generated by the project’s windows, especially the ones along the western side of the building,” Mr Rollinson said.

“To alleviate this, the revised plans feature fewer windows along the western side of the building, increased vegetation and double-glazed windows throughout the building.”

To view the final designs of The Glasshouse @ The Gannawarra, please click on the image above.

Other key features that have been retained following the community engagement period include:

• Two soundproof pods which can be used to develop media projects;
• An additional gallery space that will complement current facilities;
• A meeting area that can be enclosed from the main building;
• LED walls that can display creative installations; and
• New landscaping, including an indigenous garden and ceremonial fire pit celebrating links to the Gannawarra’s indigenous culture.

“Council thanks all residents who provided feedback regarding the proposed designs and looks forward to construction beginning on this important project towards the end of year,” Mr Rollinson said.

For more information regarding The Glasshouse @ The Gannawarra project, please visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/glasshouse