architecture studio Hassell have unveiled their design to revamp the Geelong Performing Arts Centre; one of the leading cultural venues outside of Australia’s main cities.

The studio – fresh from winning a competition to design the Western Australian Museum in Perth – have been commissioned by the Victoria state government to oversee a major upgrade of the 35-year-old building’s facade and interior facilities.

The result is a contemporary exterior with a sculptural, translucent form which casts the dancers using the studios on the upper floors in silhouette.

The AUS$38.5m (US$29.4m, €26m, £22.3m) expansion will also include new rehearsal facilities and creative industries offices.

“As the only stated-owned arts centre outside Melbourne, Geelong Performing Arts Centre will not only be a landmark destination it will also service the needs of the growing creative and cultural community,” said Mark Loughnan, Hassell principal and head of design.

Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-2017. The project, which will be completed in late 2018, is the second phase of a wider project to upgrade the arts centre. In 2010, Australian architects Studio 101 completed the refurbishment of the centre's connected Playhouse Theatre.