State Library Dome
From Engineering Heritage Australia
This dome, of ribbed reinforced concrete, was conceived by the architect N. G. Peebles, with structural design by John Monash using the patented Monier Reinforcing system.
It was built by Swanson Bros. using a different patented reinforcement system, the TrusCon system, designed by the Trussed Concrete Steel Company of London.
At the time of its completion, 1911, it was the largest such dome in the world, and of world renown. It reflected the high level of structural engineering skills in the designers and their confidence in the then new reinforced concrete technology.
Engineering Heritage Recognition Program
| Marker Type | Historic Engineering Marker (HEM) |
| Award Date | August 2004 |
| Heritage Significance | The dome of the Reading Room of the State Library of Victoria was the first large ribbed reinforced concrete dome constructed in Australia. At the time of its completion in 1911, it was the largest such dome in the world, was of world renown, and was a highly visible example of contemporary structural engineering. It is significant in its combination of technical, architectural and functional considerations to create an impressively proportioned space. |
| Nomination Document | Available here. |
| Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report |
Not Available. |
| Plaque/Interpretation Panel | Available here. |
