‘A space for contemplation’ excerpt courtesy of Glass Australia Magazine

Tim Roberts, February 2018.

 

G. James’ expansive glazed dome situated in the Dudley Denny City Library in Mackay, Queensland, is an exceptional work that has swiftly won pride of place in the public’s heart and industry recognition. But this masterpiece didn’t come without its challenges; project manager, Neville Donald, elaborates that “the project called for close consultation with council and an extensive drafting process with our in-house engineers and draftspeople before proceeding with construction.”

Precision was paramount, with Neville acknowledging that “there was no room for error with our calculations,” which also encompassed the existing structure of the building. Being positioned over a void that looks down onto the shopping arcade below, it was essential to ensure that the structural integrity would not be compromised and that it could bear the increased weight of the new glazed dome.

The dome was formed from clear heat-strengthened laminated glazed panels –25.52mm thick at the top and 21.52mm thick at the bottom, weighing in at a hefty 170kg each. Additionally, holding the dome’s glazing in place required individually machined brackets- also manufactured by G. James. The glazing itself was also highly specialised, due to the lean on the top of the dome, which required each pane of glass to be of a specific size and shape, “the finished product resembled a massive jigsaw puzzle that had to be assembled onsite” he says.

The onerous task demanded a sizeable team that included steel fabricators, builders, riggers, glaziers and engineers constantly on hand. “Each resource available was called upon for the installation to happen as the glass had to be guided into each space and tapped into the opening slowly with extreme caution” notes Neville. “Bringing a crane into the equation was no easy feat and manoeuvring each panel onto the crane then into place was particularly daunting.”

Now forming the library’s centrepiece, Neville reflects on the project as a prominent feature in the city’s architecture; “it was a privilege to do something so out of the ordinary, despite being a high-blood pressure challenge.” The imaginative renovation of Mackay’s library has resulted in a light-filled and unforgettable reading space for all to enjoy.