Restoration of Meerilinga House in line for conservation award

23/5/03
The restoration of a significant heritage building, Meerilinga House in West Perth, is among seven nominations in the Heritage Council Conservation Award category of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) Architectural Awards.
The conservation of Meerilinga House was co-ordinated by architects Cameron Chisholm and Nicol (WA).
The award recognises best practice in heritage conservation and includes the 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 projects nominated for the 2003 Heritage Council Conservation Award were of a high standard and demonstrated the potential for conservation of heritage places.
"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," Dr Edwards said.
In reviewing award entries, the Minister noted:

• the aim of the project was to conserve the significant external fabric of the building and undertake restoration and repairs to the building interior;

• the project was based on urgent work required to maintain the building in a stable condition, and works were carried in accordance with the Burra Charter, the internationally accepted guiding document for heritage conservation; and

• the innovative use of archival research of original details and materials, including use of photographic records enabled an accurate restoration, which was completed in 2000.

Dr Edwards said Meerilinga House was historically significant for its role in the development of the kindergarten movement in Western Australia.
"Meerilinga House is a two-storey, elaborately detailed residence with a circular spired turret, finely proportioned fenestration and an unusual crown of slate roof tiles," she said.
"Built in 1897 in Federation Queen Anne style, it was constructed at the height of the Western Australian gold boom, and is one of the few remaining examples of this style in West Perth."
Other nominee include: Peppermint Grove Residence - Craig Steere Architects; Methodist Ladies College Centenary Building Cupola - Slavin Architects; Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Mullewa - John Taylor Architect; Clifton - Ian Dewar and Associates; Perth Town Hall Stage 1 Refurbishment - Cox Howlett and Bailey Woodland in association with Hocking Planning and Architecture; 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