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Surry Hills Library 
and Community
Centre
Location:
NEW SOUTH WALES
Sector:
Arts & Community
SOLUTION:
Architectural & Acoustic Materials
Architect:
FJMT
Traditional 
Custodians
Of The Land:
The GADIGAL people

The Surry Hills Library and Community Centre is a pioneering example of sustainable civic architecture, setting new benchmarks for environmental performance in multi-purpose public buildings. Designed by Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (FJMT), the building integrates a library, community spaces, and social infrastructure within a highly efficient envelope that “touches the earth lightly.” Natural grasses on the roof reduce energy loss, solar panels provide supplementary power, and movement-controlled lighting ensures energy is only used when needed. Together, these elements contributed to the project receiving the National Award for Sustainable Architecture at the AIA’s 2010 National Architecture Awards. More than a decade on, the centre remains a standout in Australia’s urban landscape—both for its expressive design and its enduring performance.

Our 
Contribution

We supplied high-performance acoustic panels designed to achieve up to 0.85 NRC in the library’s sensitive sound environment, ensuring quiet, comfortable spaces for study and community use. We procured GECA-certified, low-VOC, low-formaldehyde products that aligned with the project’s “Green, Global, Connect” vision and supported its Green Star aspirations, including fire-rated solutions delivered in step with evolving 2009 legislation. To maintain visual continuity between exterior and interior, we custom-matched and stained the internal panel finishes to mirror the Spanish-sourced external material, creating a seamless connection between the eaves and internal ceilings.

What We Procured

  • Acoustic wall & ceiling systems
  • Timber and hybrid linings
  • Fibre cement panels
  • Architectural finishes
  • Metal, aluminium or screening elements
  • Fit-out elements
  • Specialist or custom materials
Most materials were manufactured through our partner network, drawing on more than 50 years of Australian experience in engineered acoustic and architectural systems.

Technical Requirements Supported

The project required the following:
  • Fire ratings and documentation
  • Acoustic performance requirements
  • ESG, sustainability or Green Star/ISCA criteria
  • Accessibility, durability or moisture resistance requirements
  • Panel layouts, prototyping, or pre-installation coordination
Myee Collective coordinated the documentation required for Group fire ratings, acoustic performance, sustainability certifications and delivery sequencing to support project timelines.

Community
Outcomes


The result is a calm, acoustically refined community hub where people can read, work, and gather without disruption from excessive noise. By pairing advanced acoustic performance with rigorously sustainable materials, the project delivers healthier indoor air quality and supports the broader environmental goals of its city context. The carefully coordinated finishes help the building feel cohesive and welcoming, reinforcing its role as a future-focused civic asset that continues to serve the community—both functionally and sustainably—years after completion.
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Looking for 
a partner?

If you’re planning a tender or sourcing materials for an upcoming project, Myee Collective can support you with compliant, reliable and community-aligned procurement.

Email:
letstalk@myeecollective.com.au

Project Inquiry:

CONNECTING
COMMUNITIES

Myee Collective acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of Australia and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.ContactPrivacy© 2025 Myee Collective