New South Wales Parliament Chambers

Restoring Australia’s first parliament

Introduction

We were engaged as lead design consultant for the Parliament Chambers restoration project at New South Wales Parliament House, one of the oldest precincts in Australia.

The project was part of a broader renovation initiative aimed at preserving and upgrading the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council Chambers.

Heritage expertise

Under our guidance, a team of sub-consultants skilfully managed the mechanical, electrical, specialist lighting, materials conservation, and accessibility aspects of the refurbishment.

A detailed exploration of materials, colours, and supplier specifications ensured consistency and authenticity throughout the process.

It was important to establish a uniform approach for ongoing maintenance and repair, particularly concerning colours and materials.

Material integrity timely restoration

Addressing disparities in leather hues led to the adoption of a standardised sourcing method, and colour-matched leather from a consistent supplier ensured a cohesive appearance across all furnishings.

Additionally, time posed a critical challenge for the project, given completion was needed before the opening of parliament that year under the new government.

Our meticulous approach ensured safety, security, and accessibility measures were all improved while respecting the original building. Sustainability principles guided functional changes alongside historical preservation.

The restoration efforts seamlessly combined modern enhancements, preserving historical significance while ensuring lasting functionality in the important space.