South Melbourne Town Hall
Location
Wurundjeri Country
South Melbourne VIC, Australia
Client
City of Port Phillip
Significance
VHR H0217
Completed
2005
Services Provided
Conservation Works
Awards
2006 AIA Victorian Architecture Awards | John George Knight Heritage Award
The initial impetus for this project was the falling to ground of spalling masonry and the threat to public safety that this posed. RBA were engaged c.1999 for a multi-staged project spanning 7 years, to restore the town hall façades and reconstruct the mansard roof.
The South Melbourne Town Hall was design by Charles Webb in 1880, and orginally housed the Emerald Hill Town Council, Public Hall, Mechanics Institute, Library, Post and Telegraph Department, Court House and Fire Brigade. The building is of architectrural significance as an outstanding example of a Victorian Academic Classical style building with French Second Empire influences.
Upon assessment, it was determined that the spalling masonry was caused by concrete cancer in the more delicate pressed-cement moulded elements. These elements were carfeully repaired with stainless steel threads and epoxy resin. The original render skim coat to the exterior had virtually disappeared after over 100 years of weathering and its chemical properties were investigated so as to accurately replicate the mix. The original Mansard roofs and decorative parapet urns were also reinstated.
Upon completion, the extensive conservation works were recognised with the 2006 AIA Victorian Architecture Awards John George Knight Heritage Award.
Image Credits: Peter Bennetts
