Sensitive design protects heritage architecture in boutique apartment development
Repurposing heritage buildings can present unique challenges. Residential developer, Match wanted to convert Fremantle’s historic but long-empty wool stores into a boutique block of 183 apartments. Built in 1922, minimal documentation was available, so investigations revealed the need for strengthening and remediation of the structure to meet codes and to support the major internal changes required by the client.
Our consultants worked closely with the builder to integrate services and offer a layout to suit modern living while retaining the character and charm of the historic stores. Floors were lowered to incorporate parking and transfer structures were introduced to open up the internal layout. Many original features were retained, such as the saw-tooth roof, century old jarrah beams, exposed brick, grand windows and 3.6m high ceilings, resulting in a contemporary aesthetic that honours the building's history.
The result? ‘Heirloom’ Apartments is a truly unique award-winning development in the heart of Fremantle, that features all the hallmarks of an iconic industrial building whilst offering the best of contemporary living.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
-
- Match
- Architect
- Cameron Chisolm and Nicol
- Award
- 2017 WA Heritage Awards, Best Conservation or Adaptive Reuse of a State Registered Place
- Award
- Gerry Gauntlett Award, recognising an outstanding achievement of adaptive reuse in Western Australia
Eric Lemeur, Principal, Senior Structural Project Technical Lead
I pride myself on providing efficient, cost-effective structural solutions and am known for my personable and collaborative relationships.
Stephen King, Principal, Mission Critical, Science & Technology Sector Leader, WA
Mixing prescriptive with performance-based design, I like to be involved in technical detail without losing focus on the big picture.
We’re better together
-
Become a client
Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You’re exactly what’s needed to help us make it happen in your community.
-
Design your career
Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.