Sydney, 3 May 2012
Allen Jack+Cottier’s innovative adaptive reuse residential project, The Gallery, Botanica, has won a
prestigious Highly Commended Award in this year’s National Trust of Australia (NSW) awards.
The project has also been shortlisted as a finalist in the Heritage Category of the Houses Awards 2012.
Allen Jack+Cottier was commissioned by Australand to design the adaptive re-use of several buildings at
the former Lidcombe Hospital site for residential use. This section of the former Lidcombe Hospital site has
been brought back to life and integrated into the 44 hectare, parkland setting of Botanica.
This stage, completed in November 2011, comprises a Victorian superintendent’s house designed by
colonial architect James Barnet, and four hospital ward buildings designed by government architect Walter
Liberty Vernon in the early years of the 20th century. A series of outbuildings had been added to the rear of
the wards over the years to accommodate additional and changing functions.
Reg Smith, Principal of Allen Jack+Cottier, said: ‘Our primary aim was to enhance the unique character
of the buildings and to conserve the buildings by adapting them for ongoing use. We wanted to create a
centrepiece for the redevelopment of the residential precinct.
‘This award, the very strong response we have had from the marketplace, and the delight people express at
living in this vibrant new community, show we have succeeded in doing all those things,’ he said.
‘The balance of often conflicting factors (conservation, economic viability and market demands) has been
particularly successful, to the credit of those involved, particularly our client, Australand,’ he added.
The project was realised by Allen Jack+Cottier in association with heritage architect, Kate Mountstephens.
The concept design was closely guided by Conservation Management Plans prepared for the site, and
was developed collaboratively with the heritage consultants and the Heritage Office.
‘The way we have approached conservation of important heritage elements of the setting and the buildings
has resulted in a highly attractive and marketable product. The precinct is already establishing itself as a
vibrant community whose residents value the character of the buildings, the Village Green and the modern
amenity.’ Mr. Smith said.
‘The project is unique in that significant buildings in a heritage precinct have been adapted for residential
reuse by a developer. A less well attuned developer may have missed many opportunities and adversely
affected the heritage significance of such a site,’ he added.
Established in 1952, AJ+C is among Australia’s most awarded architectural practices and employs over 60
staff in Australia and China. AJ+C focuses on mixed use, multi-residential and making communities – for
living, for working, for education, for sport and for retirement living.
Allen Jack+Cottier
