Perth Town Hall among conservation award nominees

28/5/03
The first stage of refurbishment works to the Perth Town Hall is in the running for a prestigious architectural award for best practice in heritage conservation.
The project, co-ordinated by Cox Howlett and Bailey Woodland in Association with Hocking Planning and Architecture, is a nominee in the Heritage Council Conservation Award category of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) Architectural Awards, to be announced next month.
The award recognises achievement in conservation, restoration or development of a commercial, community or domestic project that maintains the heritage integrity of a place.
Environment and Heritage Minister Judy Edwards said the Heritage Council Conservation Award recognised projects which demonstrated excellence in the field of heritage conservation.
"There are seven nominees for the award, including the restoration of the Methodist Ladies College Centenary Building Cupola; Meerilinga House and the Perth Oval Gates, among others," Dr Edwards said.
"The Heritage Council Conservation Award is important in recognising the commitment of architects and owners in conserving places of heritage significance as a solution, rather than new construction."
The Minister said the Perth Town Hall project successfully achieved improved access facilities while conserving the building's exterior and ground floor level, in accordance with the Burra Charter, a guiding document for conservation.
"The project is important in providing a historical icon within the City of Perth, which will ensure the continued usage of the hall and maintenance of the building's significance," she said.
"Access to the building is now provided through a well defined entry foyer that is visible from both Barrack and Hay Streets, with a new lift and toilets provided on the first floor."
Conservation works included the reconstruction of both the south fa?ade and part reconstruction of the east fa?ade, with the re-establishment of the brick arches on the ground level north and west facades.
"Extensive interpretation elements adorn the project providing visitors with knowledge of the building and its history," Dr Edwards said.
Engineering technology was also utilised to stabilise the building under earthquake conditions.
The Minister said Perth Town Hall was a fine example of Victorian Free Gothic architecture.
"The building is a rare Australian example of a 19th century town hall, modelled on those of 14th century European market towns," she said.
"It has been the focus of civic and social activities since 1870 and the place is aprominent Perth landmark.
"It is an integral component of the precinct of public buildings associated with 19th century colonial administration and is closely associated with the State's history of penal transportation."
Other nominees include: Peppermint Grove Residence - Craig Steere Architects; Methodist Ladies College Centenary Building Cupola - Slavin Architects; Meerilinga House - Cameron Chisholm and Nicol (WA); Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Mullewa - John Taylor Architect; Clifton - Ian Dewar and Associates; and Perth Oval Gates, Considine and Griffiths Architects.
The winner of the Heritage Council Conservation Award will be announced at the RAIA Architectural Awards Gala Ceremony on Friday, June 6.
Minister's Office - 9220 5050