LITTLE BAY PROJECT
PRINCE HENRY HOSPITAL
Heritage
Nestled just 650 meters from the open ocean in Little Bay is the state heritage-listed Prince Henry Hospital. Built in 1881, it once stood as an emblem of cutting-edge construction technologies of its time. Now transformed into 41 residential townhouses/units, this historic edifice has naturally undergone wear over the years, surpassing its intended service life and revealing signs of age.
THE PROBLEM
A combination of time and a punishing marine environment manifested in the hospital's facade. The most alarming was the exponential deterioration of the brickwork due to salt attack. Water ingress and timber degradation further accentuated the decay.
The challenge was not just the restoration, but doing so while preserving the essence and architectural integrity of a heritage-listed building.
THE APPROACH
Respecting its historical significance, TBES initiated a rigorous building assessment, capturing every defect in immense detail. Such was the depth of this survey that the resulting report spanned over a thousand pages, meticulously illustrated with photographs.
THE SOLUTION
With the understanding derived from the in-depth survey, TBES devised a strategic methodology to address the masonry issues, specifically targeting salt attack while still preserving the building's historical character. Recommendations were laid out systematically, aiming to restore the facade's glory and ensure its longevity. Furthermore, in recognising the site's heritage value, TBES crafted a comprehensive building maintenance plan, aligning with the client's aspirations to secure a Government Heritage Grant.
The restoration journey of Prince Henry Hospital epitomises TBES's dedication to intertwining historical preservation with modern functionality, ensuring the past's grandeur thrives in the present.
