The project saw the historic façade of the beloved building restored, safeguarding its legacy for generations
Duratec’s team of highly skilled heritage specialists completed a major heritage façade restoration of the Adelaide Town Hall – the first major restoration to the structure since its opening in 1866.
Adelaide Town Hall, the de-facto location of state ceremonies, and civic and community services, underwent an intensive two-year-transformation. The scope of work included:
- Stone carving and indents
- Repointing the majority of the building including the entire tower
- Render consolidation, recreation and restoration
- Clock restoration
- Finial gilding
- Painting
- Lead flashing installation
Duratec’s collaboration with Swanbury Penglase Architects and the team’s commitment to preservation ensured that the façade restoration aligned with the Burra Charter while incorporating some innovative techniques towards restoration; these included modern scientific testing to identify materials accurately as well as using 3D modelling to capture detailed elements of the building.
James Biven, Senior Project Manager at Duratec, who oversaw the project since its inception, shared:
“It was an absolute privilege being a part of this conservation effort. Thanks to our meticulous approach, we have successfully extended the life of this building so future generations can enjoy it.
“A personal highlight for me was being able to collaborate with and learn from highly specialised craftsmen. It’s not something you get to see on every project!”
The Lord Mayor, Dr Jane Lomax-Smith, added:
“The Town Hall is Adelaide’s ceremonial heart, and as its custodians, it’s up to us to invest and conserve it for future generations.
Duratec showed enormous pride in the way they lovingly restored our civic building, from the lead flashings installed to the delicate gilding at the top of Albert Tower.”
The Town Hall remained fully operational during renovations with a clever mix of night-time and weekend work to allow the venue to continue to host events, welcome dignitaries, and serve as the cultural and communal heart of Adelaide.
You can read more about the project and Duratec’s involvement on the City of Adelaide government website: Adelaide Town Hall Conservation Project | City of Adelaide
Read our half-way milestone interview with the project team and The Lord Mayor, Dr Jame Lomax-Smith: Ushering in a new era for esteemed city landmark Adelaide Town Hall – Duratec Limited
Image Credit: Brad Griffin Photography
