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Government House

Government House

Location

Melbourne, VIC

Client

Office of the Governor

Superintendent

Lovell Chen

Architect

Lovell Chen

Contract Type

Construct Only

$2.5m

Project value

12

Months to build

2015

Completed

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

  • Live Operating Environment
  • Existing Structure Works
  • Remediation & Conservation Works
  • Matching Existing Building Fabrics
  • Strict Noise & Dust Controls

Since 1934, the Victorian Government House has served as the residence of the Governor, the primary venue for the Governor’s constitutional and community engagement activities, and the workplace of the Office of the Governor. The 3,035m2 building, listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, remains the largest Government House in all of The Commonwealth.

The main works in this project comprised of replacing and repairing a large percentage of the aging slate and lead components to various sections of the roof and roof plumbing, with materials that matched original fabrics. Also completed were the relining of old in-wall cast-iron downpipes, restoration of timber windows to roof lanterns, and the repair and repainting of water-damaged ornate hard plaster ceilings.

The obvious heritage requirements for such a historical building were a key part of the project and were adhered to for the duration of the works. Attention to detail and quality of work had to be of exacting standards, especially with internal refurbishments to the spectacular State Ballroom. A fully operational house, as well as high and difficult to reach work faces led to added difficulties that had to be overcome. However, our project team successfully navigated their way through the challenges and delivered the project on time to the highest quality standard.

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