structural -strengthening -for-state_library_of_nsw

State Library of NSW – Structural Strengthening

The State Library of NSW is a true Sydney icon and is recognised as one of the world’s greatest libraries. It has been welcoming a growing number of visitors each year, and to accommodate this increase and deliver a more engaging visitor experience, the Library has embarked on a major ‘contemporary transformation’ and will deliver a reimagined Macquarie Street ground floor and Bashir Reading Room.

Key upgrades include:

  • A transformed foyer – creating a more welcoming and visually stunning entrance.

  • An expanded bookshop – tripling in size to showcase Australian books, Library merchandise, and unique gifts.

  • A larger café – doubling capacity with new indoor and outdoor spaces to host a wider range of events.

  • An upgraded Bashir Reading Room – reconfigured for accessibility and increasing seating by 37% (from 482 to 659). Two new public lifts and amenities on each floor further enhance accessibility.

Structural Strengthening

As part of this transformation, Slabtec was engaged to provide structural strengthening works utilising CFRP, enabling a new stairway connection linking the Bashir  Reading Rooms.

The Library remained operational throughout the construction. Careful planning and delivery by Slabtec ensured minimal disruption to this iconic Sydney institution during the structural strengthening phase.

Project Partners

Main Contractor: Intrec

Consulting Engineer: TTW

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Slabtec’s Role in Adaptive Reuse Projects

At Slabtec, we specialise in helping clients extend the life of concrete structures through advanced repair, strengthening, and carbon fibre solutions. Adaptive reuse projects like this are a perfect fit for our expertise, helping to minimise waste while delivering safe, modern outcomes that support community growth.

Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) strengthening is commonly used to increase the flexural or shear capacity of concrete structures.

Over the last decade, Slabtec has become the market leader in the application of CFRP-strengthening solutions for many of Australia’s builders and developers.

Slabtec has delivered hundreds of successful CFRP-strengthening solutions for many of Australia’s builders and developers.

The Slabtec team is experienced in the full range of CFRP strengthening systems from Sika, S&P, and Master Builders.

We’re proud to be recognised as the industry leader in building strengthening.