The development and history of architectural practice has much in common with the evolution of engineering design practice. Both disciplines are deeply intertwined, sharing foundational principles of innovation, problem-solving, and responsiveness to the changing needs of society. In recognition of these shared legacies, Engineering Heritage Sydney (Engineers Australia’s Sydney division of EHA) is currently developing an Intangible Heritage Policy for Engineering Design Practice, as well as a complementary policy for Moveable Heritage. These initiatives aim to preserve not only the physical artefacts of engineering but also the ‘How and Why’ -the ideas, processes, and cultural significance embedded within them—ensuring that the stories behind engineering achievements are not lost to time. Recording and understanding this contribution helps us to improve on and design better for future generations, conserve, maintain and manage our heritage assets, places and items and support sustainability initiatives and conserve natural resources through repurposing and adaptive reuse.
In this spirit of celebrating professional heritage, Partridge Director Eamonn Madden was invited to attend the opening night of The Treasures of Tusculum exhibition on Tuesday, April 29th in his capacity as Chair of the Engineering Heritage Sydney committee (Engineers Australia), joining industry peers and heritage advocates at the Australian Institute of Architects NSW Chapter’s historic headquarters in Potts Point.
Pictured at the event are Eamonn Madden alongside Bill Phippen, Deputy Chair of Engineering Heritage Sydney, and Adam Haddow, Director at SJB architects and the recently announced National President Elect of the Australian Institute of Architects.
The free exhibition, which ran from April 30th until May 4th, offered a fascinating glimpse into New South Wales’ architectural history. Through a curated display of archival donations, photographs, and historic records, The Treasures of Tusculum uncovered the lives and legacies of key figures whose contributions have shaped the built environment in the state. The exhibition highlighted the importance of preserving both tangible and intangible heritage, aligning closely with the goals of Engineering Heritage Sydney’s current policy work—underscoring that behind every structure or design lies a narrative worth preserving.
