WITH Architecture Studio and OMA have been appointed as lead architects for the redevelopment of Western Australia's iconic Perth Concert Hall.
The $52.4 million Perth City Deal project will preserve the heritage-listed concert hall and activate a future cultural hub connecting the city and the Swan River, increasing arts and culture offerings to the Perth arts and tourism sectors' recovery through and beyond the COVID- 19 pandemic.
The Perth City Deal is a $1.5 billion partnership of the Australian and WA governments, together with the City of Perth, to deliver economic stimulus, jobs and liveability outcomes for Perth CBD.
The Perth Concert Hall opened in 1973 and stands as an example of late 20th-century architecture.
The redevelopment works will restore the building's architectural integrity and enhance its renowned acoustics, distinctive features and surrounding courtyards.
The project will also feature new working spaces for the Western Australia Symphony Orchestra, who will make the Perth Concert Hall their new home. The redevelopment will also improve disability access, provide water and energy saving initiatives and refurbish the forecourts to enable future festivals and other mass gatherings.
The works are expected to be completed by late 2024. More information about the project is available at perthconcerthall.com.au/about/redevelopment.
The project is jointly funded with $12 million provided by the Commonwealth, $36.4 million provided by the State and $4 million provided by the City of Perth.
As stated by Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP:
"The redevelopment of the Perth Concert Hall is an important project under the City Deal, helping to enhance the city's cultural offering and bringing a new focus to the city's arts scene.
"The Morrison Government continues to deliver targeted investment in projects that will strengthen the local economy and ensure that Perth is positioned as a liveable, innovative and vibrant city."
As stated by WA Minister for Culture and the Arts, the Hon David Templeman MLA:
"This announcement marks the start of design works to redevelop the Perth Concert Hall precinct.
"After nearly 50 years, the popular performance venue is in need of an extensive upgrade.
"Importantly, this project is helping to make the Concert Hall the home of the WA Symphony Orchestra (WASO)."
As stated by WA Minister for Transport, Planning and Ports, the Hon Rita Saffioti MLA:
"The Perth Concert Hall is an iconic community asset.
"This significant Perth City Deal project will activate the landmark site and bring a new vitality to Perth's east end and the wider CBD.
"It is important that we harness the best of the building and its surrounds to ensure it continues as a premium performance venue for future generations."
As stated by Perth Lord Mayor, Basil Zempilas:
"I am delighted at this important next step in the redevelopment of the Perth Concert Hall.
"The Perth Concert Hall redevelopment will play a major role in the next phase of Perth's development as a liveable, sustainable and prosperous capital city of global standing and local wellbeing.
"This exciting redevelopment is a key initiative in the Perth City Deal to unlock economic benefits and opportunities for the City of Perth and supports the development of culture and arts in the City."
For more information on the Perth City Deal, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/cities/city-deals/perth.
