Furniture Design Brief 1. INTRODUCTION Maitland Library will be 50 years old in May 2018. It is proposed to commemorate this significant milestone through commissioning the design and supply of signature furniture pieces that reflect the modernist architecture of the building. Expressions of interest are being sought for this project which will be assessed against the criteria identified in section 5 of this project brief. 1.2 BACKGROUND Originally constructed in 1968, the Maitland Library building has maintained a high degree of integrity in its modernist design and is a rare example of post-world War 2 modernism in the centre of Maitland. Architects Bunning and Madden were known to have pioneered modernist architecture in Sydney and were responsible for the design of many outstanding buildings in both Sydney and Canberra, including Anzac House, International House at the University of Sydney and the National Library of Australia. 2. PROJECT OBJECTIVE This project seeks to interpret the original furniture design associated with the construction of Maitland Library in 1968. The furniture will be commissioned and manufactured as special edition pieces commemorating the 50 th anniversary of the building in May 2018. The furniture will enhance the usability of the internal space and provide casual seating for library customers. The furniture will seek to respond to the architectural significance of the building as a custom designed modern period community facility where the clarity of the internal planning is matched by the clean curved restraint of the exterior. 3. FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS The furniture is required to be of a robust ergonomic design, capable of being used in any communal accessible space within the library. It is intended that the items will be used for casual reading and relaxing, as distinct from a research and study function. Design for two pieces shall be provided including a chair and low table set. Subject to budget considerations, it is anticipated that 4-6 chairs and 2 tables will be manufactured. Approximate dimensions are required to meet relevant Australian Standards and best practice guidelines https://www.alia.org.au/sites/default/files/documents/advocacy/plsg_alia_2012.pdf (ref section 3.2) 3.1 MATERIALS Materials shall be sympathetic to the existing (and largely original) materials palette with specific consideration given to the use of cedar (which is a traditional material sourced from the region), leather and/or fabric. p 1
Glass will not be an option given the public function of the space. 4. DESIGN REFERENCES Current library environment I Customer service desk Maitland Library Exterior view from High Street Maitland Library p 2
Interior view Maitland Library p 3
4.1 IMAGE REFERENCES Library environment circa 1968 View of original casual seating and tables Maitland Library (Picture Maitland Collection) Interior view including casual seating and table in foreground Maitland Library (Picture Maitland Collection) p 4
Architectural Drawing Maitland City Library, Bunning and Madden (Maitland City Council map collection) 5. RESPONSE TO BRIEF The designer will submit a design method statement defining: drawn scaled concept design proposed stages for design development, commission and manufacture costing for all stages In response to this brief the designer should provide: An outline of the work proposed including a timeline specifying deadlines for further research and development stage design documentation and organisation of fabrication/making, fabrication/making, and delivery to Council Relevant project experience At least two referees A program showing a sequence and duration of each of the main components of the designer s work Preliminary concept drawings of a seat and table which suitably demonstrate the techniques and style of work proposed (please note that there will be no payment to designers for this component) Information about ability to satisfactorily complete the project within the timeframe required, including the role of other sub-consultants proposed for the project. Where appropriate, an approximate breakdown of the hours each person would work on the project and a copy of CVs and details/references relating to similar projects undertaken should be provided. p 5
The expression of interest should be provided to Council in an A4 or A3 colour format, and in a digital format to enable reproduction. Concept drawings produced by the unsuccessful tenderers will be returned to the artist. 6. BUDGET A fully costed budget will be provided in response to this project brief. The designer shall identify any part payments required throughout the course of the project as part of their response to this brief. The upper budget figure for this project (including manufacture) is $15,000. 7. TIMEFRAME A two month timeframe will apply to the design of the furniture, and a 6-8 week timeframe for manufacture and delivery. 8. PROJECT OUTPUTS The designer will provide a design statement at the conclusion of works encapsulating the inspiration and delivery of the furniture. The designer will be responsible for all aspects of the furniture design and supply. 9. PROJECT REPORTS Brief progress reports (verbal or written) should be made to the project coordinator on a fortnightly basis. p 6
10. REFERENCES The following references on Bunning and Madden have been compiled by the NSW Institute of Architects. Access to any of the references may be able to be facilitated through Maitland City Library. (3 boxes) + 27 Folio items Reference number: MS 5543 The papers consist of correspondence, reports, plans, specifications, and newspaper-cutting books, photograph albums, official publications and issues of journals. They document Bunning's early work as an architectural writer, records of the architectural firm of Bunning and Madden (1945 and 1976) and papers relating to the official inquiries on planning matters that Bunning undertook in the last ten years of his life. Of special interest are the papers relating to the design and construction of the National Library building, which Bunning regarded as his greatest achievement. The papers have been organised into eleven Series that cover both the personal and professional aspects of Bunning's life. Series List Series Title 1. Personal and general papers, 1932-75 2. Bunning and Madden, architects, 1945-72 3. National Library of Australia, 1961-72 4. Paddington Area Development, 1968 5. Sydney Cove Redevelopment Authority, 1960-76 6. Moore Park Sports Area, 1972-76 7. Myall Lakes Inquiry, 1969-74 8. Environmental Impact Policy, 1973 9. Parliament House, Canberra, 1963-69 10. Art Gallery of New South Wales, 1975-76 11. Sydney Opera House, 1955-73 p 3