Architect: BKA Architecture
Client: Lake Macquarie City Council
Location: Booragul, NSW
Awaba House has been part of the Booragul landscape since the 1870s, when the Quigley family built the first house on the site. The present building dates from 1927, when Newcastle architect Edwin Sara was commissioned to design a new Awaba House for the Braye family. Over the decades, the property has served as a family home, public gallery, café and function venue, before being significantly damaged by fire in 2019. Its latest restoration is now bringing the historic building back into use as a contemporary hospitality venue.
Partridge provided consulting services during construction of the restoration, with a particular focus on the building’s facade and roof waterproofing. The structural design was undertaken by BG&E, with Partridge engaged by Council to provide weatherproofing services during construction. Working alongside the design engineers, architects and builders, Partridge supported the delivery of the design and addressed weatherproofing requirements as the works progressed.
A key challenge was stabilising the fire-damaged facade while retaining its original appearance. Structural works by BG&E were also required to support the roof and accommodate new waterproofing systems, improving the building’s weather resistance while respecting its heritage fabric. Working within an existing building required practical solutions that responded to its condition while accommodating the requirements of its new use.
The restoration has transformed Awaba House into a contemporary venue while retaining its connection to the site and its lakeside setting. The completed building includes a restaurant and terrace overlooking Lake Macquarie, kitchen and café facilities, a ceremony area and updated landscaping with a new footpath.
The project demonstrates the value of collaboration between engineering teams, particularly during construction when the realities of an existing building need to be reconciled with the design. Partridge was pleased to work alongside BG&E and the wider project team, bringing construction-stage structural expertise to the restoration.
Congratulations to BG&E on being named a finalist in the Engineers Australia Awards for their work on the project. It is great to see the engineering behind the restoration recognised as Awaba House begins its next chapter.
