Email: info@mhnsw.au
Website: mhnsw.au
Address: The Mint, 10 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000
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The Caroline Simpson Library & Research Collection is a unique cultural institution in Sydney, dedicated to the history of interiors, architecture, gardens, and material culture in New South Wales. Managed by Museums of History NSW, it provides access to rare books, design archives, and historic resources that reveal how people in NSW have lived, decorated, and built their homes for over two centuries.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 10am–4pm
Closed Mondays and public holidays
Specialised Collections in Design, Interiors, and Architecture
Located within The Mint on Macquarie Street, the Caroline Simpson Library is a vital resource for architects, designers, historians, and students. Its extensive collection includes:
- Architectural drawings and plans
- Interior design catalogues and furnishing guides
- Textile and wallpaper samples
- Photographs documenting NSW homes and public buildings
- Garden and landscape design archives
Preserving NSW’s Material Culture
With over 70,000 items, the library preserves insights into the domestic and social history of NSW. Researchers explore:
- Historical home decoration styles
- Heritage architecture and design trends
- Craftsmanship and artisan techniques
- Garden and landscape evolution
- Social and cultural influences on everyday life
The library is invaluable for heritage restoration, academic research, and creative projects.
Accessible Research for Professionals and Enthusiasts
The library is open to the public by appointment, welcoming anyone interested in NSW’s architectural and domestic history. Staff provide guidance through rare books, manuscripts, and design collections that support research and inspiration in multiple fields.
Part of Museums of History NSW
As part of Museums of History NSW, the Caroline Simpson Library plays a key role in preserving the state’s heritage, complementing museums, historic houses, archaeological sites, and archives to document NSW’s history.
Why Visit the Caroline Simpson Library?
The library is ideal for:
- Architects and interior designers
- Heritage and conservation professionals
- Students and academic researchers
- Garden and landscape enthusiasts
- Writers, creatives, and historians
- Anyone interested in Sydney’s domestic and built heritage
With its specialised collection and calm research environment, the Caroline Simpson Library offers a distinctive cultural experience in the heart of Sydney.
