The Locomotive Workshops in Eveleigh, Australia, hold a rich history dating back to 1871 when they were established to serve the growing Australian railway network. Over the years, the workshops expanded to include various facilities, becoming a bustling hub with thousands of workers. However, in 1988, after over a century of operation, the workshops ceased operations, giving way to the Australian Technology Park (ATP), which unfortunately led to a disconnect from the local community.
Reconnecting with the Community
The revitalization project by Mirvac aimed to reverse this disconnect and reintegrate the ATP precinct with the surrounding neighborhood. The overarching design strategy focused on removing barriers and opening up the space to create a more inclusive environment. The goal was to celebrate the industrial heritage of the site while fostering a sense of connection with the community.
Embracing Industrial Heritage
Central to the redevelopment is the preservation and celebration of the site’s industrial heritage. The Blacksmith Workshop, housed in Bays 1 and 2, continues the tradition of blacksmithing, maintaining a link to the site’s history. Additionally, a Heritage Interpretation restaurant provides visitors with insights into the site’s people, history, and origins, enriching their experience.
Blending Old with New
The redevelopment seamlessly integrates new commercial and retail spaces while respecting the original fabric of the building. Steel-framed interventions allow for flexibility and reversibility, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between old and new elements. Views of the building’s volumetric spaces and significant structural elements are preserved, paying homage to its rich industrial past.
Lightweight Interventions
A key aspect of the design philosophy is the use of lightweight interventions within the existing building envelope. New elements are carefully designed to differentiate from the heritage fabric while maintaining a visual connection. The original structure, with its weathered patina, stands as a testament to the passage of time, while new additions are distinguished by a sleek black finish.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Ultimately, the redevelopment project seeks to preserve, accentuate, and amplify the cultural and aesthetic heritage of the Locomotive Workshops. By embracing the site’s history and character, while ensuring its economic viability, the project aims to create a vibrant and sustainable space that honors the past while looking towards the future.
