‘With’ Architecture Studio and ‘OMA’ have been appointed as lead architects for the redevelopment of Western Australia’s iconic venue Perth Concert Hall. Originally designed by architects Jeffrey Howlett and Don Bailey, opening its doors to the public in 1973, this brutalist venue will now be getting a long-awaited facelift.
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.
Perth Concert Hall is noted as being a structure that was completely innovative for its time. It’s centred by a winding staircase, with an interior laid with a bold red carpet, seating 1,729 people in the main auditorium and housing a 3,000 pipe organ. 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 West Australian Symphony Orchestra, who will make the Perth Concert Hall their new home.
“It’s a wonderful thing for the orchestra. For the first time in nearly two decades the largest employer of performing artists in Western Australia will have a home” - Evan Kennea (West Australian Symphony Orchestra’s Executive Manager of Artistic Planning).
The redevelopment will improve disability access, provide water and energy saving initiatives, as well as refurbish the forecourts to enable future festivals and other mass gatherings.
But right now, it’s business as usual at Perth Concert Hall with lots to explore in the coming months, as the development works are expected to be completed by late 2024.
Perth Concert Hall