Client Challenge: Built over 150 years ago, this building was used as a bank complete with huge safes and endowed with local heritage significance. The restoration and conversion into modern office space presented a serious challenge. When the project first began, the client quickly realised the complexity was beyond what they had anticipated. Structural challenges emerged and we were brought in to find engineering and design solutions.

Our Solution: Firstly. the safes had to be saw cut and carefully removed. We then utilised concealed steel trusses to reinforce and stabilise the overall structure. Finally, the facade required careful restoration according to the terms of a government heritage grant to make sure it met the conservation standards and maintained the aesthetic integrity.

Result: Today, the building is home to three premium commercial tenancies. The fit out makes the most of the high ceilings, natural light and excellent views across the Sturt Street boulevard to Ballarat’s iconic town hall. The finished building is a showpiece of adaptive reuse and a testament to our ability to overcome significant engineering and design challenges.