Melbourne based LAB architecture studio have won the recent architectural design competition for the Newcastle region art gallery in Newcastle- Australia. The $25m AUD redevelopment of the existing building will increase the total gallery area three-fold, with specialist galleries on the building’s first floor for both the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. The gallery’s improved facilities will also include a new theater, flexible education spaces, collection research and library spaces, a gallery society lounge, and a gallery shop and cafe. At night the building’s distinctive facade pattern will create a unique image through glowing light. The facade is proposed to be faced with special black oxidized stainless steel panels. The 8,000m2 project is due for completion in 2010. SM