Universal Access
Universal Access to heritage places
Each heritage place is unique and presents its own opportunities and limitations for universal access. The use of innovative thinking can overcome these barriers and facilitate access to heritage places for all users.
The digital case studies below provide examples of owners who have demonstrated best practice, enabling for maximum accessibility with minimal impact on heritage fabric.
Accessibility on all levels - case studies
Nedlands Park Masonic Hall
The 1930s Art Deco Former Freemason’s building was transformed into the UWA Innovation Quarter in 2018.
The building was adapted and accessibility upgraded, while maintaining its aesthetic value and the streetscape character.
2019 WA Heritage Awards
Conservation or Adaptive Reuse – Nominee
The State Buildings
The former Central Government Offices constructed in the late 1800s, had been vacant for over 18 years before its restoration.
Completed in 2015, the restoration focused on public access and adaptively reusing the buildings to showcase its heritage features.
2016 WA Heritage Awards
- Conservation or Adaptive Reuse – Joint Winner
- The Gerry Gauntlett Award – Winner
- Heritage Tourism Product – Finalist
Hearing augmentation
Aquinas College Chapel
A landmark of the college campus since its opening in 1966, the Chapel underwent redevelopment and conservation works to expand its capacity and features.
The works further enhanced the Chapel’s use for school and wider community while maintained its heritage value and respecting significant heritage fabric.
2020 WA Heritage Awards
- Conservation or Adaptive Reuse – Joint Winner
- The Gerry Gauntlett Award – Winner
Interpretive information in a variety of formats
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Precinct
Dilapidated and vacant since 1985, the Lighthouse Keepers’ Cottage was redeveloped into an interactive Interpretation Centre launched in 2019.
The Centre uses innovative technology to tell the personal stories and history of the lighthouse keepers and their families who lived and worked at the most south-westerly point of Australia.
2020 WA Heritage Awards
- Heritage Tourism Product - Winner
- Interpretation Project – Commendation
- Conservation or Adaptive Reuse – Commendation
