Refurbishing a 1960s Heritage Theatre

This 1960s heritage listed theatre was taken back to core fabric – the elegant timber panelling was considered of ‘heritage interest’, and was maintained to recognise the unique qualities of the original design. The theatre remains contemporary and uniquely Melbourne, but is now revitalised, attracting a greater diversity of users.
Project Name
Treasury Theatre
Case Study Type
Commercial
Location

1 Macarthur St
East Melbourne VIC 3002
Australia

Builders
Schiavello Victoria
Architects
Artillery
Photographer Details
swphotography.net.au
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a wooden wall with a railing
a reception desk in a room
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a reception desk in a room
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a door with a metal handle
a large auditorium with rows of chairs

Overview

Treasury Theatre in Melbourne is a 1960s heritage listed theatre located beneath Treasury Place and was in much need of attention. Artillery Melbourne was engaged to refurbish the theatre, ante spaces, bar area and other facilities to develop a quality design solution with integrated leading edge audio visual systems to ensure the theatre remains vital and attracts a greater diversity of users.

All areas of the theatre and associated spaces where in poor condition and generally taken back to core fabric as part of the refurbishment. That said, a key feature of the spaces was the existing blackwood wall panelling. A decision was made to maintain the panelling in recognition and as a reminder of the unique qualities of the original design. The timber panelling was lovingly restored and Artillery's design solution incorporated both the existing panelling and new timber elements in a way that seamlessly brings together all elements.

 

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Interior

The Theatre was originally built for the Victorian Film Authority and the current refurbishment will invigorate the Theatre’s use for future film events. The facility has been redesigned to be fully compliant for DDA access to all areas including the theatre stage. The theatre itself includes seating for over 200 people including facilities for writing tablets, hearing loops, video conferencing, presentations and movie projection. The spaces are designed to have a contemporary and uniquely Melbourne feel. A key existing element in the internal spaces is the elegant timber panelling considered of ‘heritage interest’. This timberwork has been meticulously restored and is a real feature of the facility. This exciting Artillery project has given new life and vitality to the Treasury Theatre whilst respecting the heritage and structural elements of the spaces.

Internal Panelling: Veneer, solid timber blackwood

Joinery and Cabinetry: Victorian ash as custom designed joinery elements

Stairs: Victorian ash as custom designed lighting elements

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