Heritage

Sydney Living Museums has undertaken the first comprehensive conservation works to the heavily deteriorated palisade fence surrounding the 1870s resting place of William Charles Wentworth. The fence was removed and stored in three-meter sections and numbered (to ensure reinstallation in the correct location after conservation works are completed) and taken to the metal workshop where they were treated and repaired. The fence design is quite intricate with a number of geometrical details that have rusted and decayed throughout the years. Only the elements that were beyond repair were to be replaced, an arduous task requiring much care and consideration. The removal of the fence also allowed for the closer inspection to the stonework below, which showed the extent of deterioration caused by the rusted fence posts and tree roots. All three courses of stonework were removed from site and taken to the stonemason’s workshop to be either be repaired, or in the case of heavily cracked copping stones, replaced – about eighty items in total. Partridge have installed screw pile footings for the new front wall to avoid harming the root system of existing trees on the site – an important part of the site’s heritage. In consideration of both the environment and practical aspects of construction, Partridge also improved the site’s drainage to prevent issues with water pooling or flooding in the future..

Total areas of crumbling sandstone block walls needing to be removed and replaced whilst maintaining stability presented Partridge, the architects, and builders with major challenges, but through a collaborative on-site restoration, the Abbey was transformed. The project also involved construction of the old stables into open plan clerestory residential accommodation with strengthening steelwork exposed and in keeping with the heritage architecture, as well as an elevated stair/passage work connection to the original residence.

Partridge undertook a restoration project for the Stables Building at Vaucluse House, commissioned by Sydney Living Museums. The project consisted of three major components: the reconstruction of turrets, courtyard walls, and stables, all aimed at maintaining the authenticity of the original design. The damaged turrets of the main house were carefully reconstructed to rectify the effects of plant growth and weathering. In the external courtyard, stone arches and walls were rebuilt, addressing weathering and settlement damage. In the stables, extensive stone work removal was necessary and our solution involved the use of stainless steel ties and steel plate lintels to meet load requirements and ensure seismic resilience, while adhering as closely as possible to the original alignment.

Our team played a key role in the restoration and transformation of the heritage-listed Telopea building, constructed in 1885, into the modern and vibrant Albert Hotel. The project involved retaining and restoring the original features such as the slate roof, timber framing, and masonry walls, bringing them back to their former glory. Our team assisted to ensure the seamless integration of modern materials and contemporary architectural design, clearly delineating the era of construction. The result is a stunning hotel that beautifully combines the charm of the past with the comfort and style of the present.

View More Projects

Bronte Sisters

Bronte Sisters

Crown St Terrace

Crown St Terrace

Millers Point Townhouse

Millers Point Townhouse

Glebe Castle

Glebe Castle

Upper Hunter Innovation Centre

Upper Hunter Innovation Centre

Wentworth Mausoleum

Wentworth Mausoleum

Winged Victory

Winged Victory

Corrimal Coke Works

Corrimal Coke Works

Moreton Manor

Moreton Manor

Gledswood Homestead

Gledswood Homestead

Wrigley’s Building

Wrigley’s Building

Christian Dior

Christian Dior