National School Building at Warwick East State School
National School Building at Warwick East State School
Client:
Queensland Government Department of Education
Location:
Warwick, Queensland
Status:
2022
Traditional custodians of the land:
Githabul people from Geinyan group
Contact Person:
David Gole
The conservation of the state heritage listed National School Building at Warwick East State School has breathed new life into one of Queensland’s oldest surviving school buildings. Built in 1864, the building endured significant damage to its foundations and brickwork due to periodic flooding and the site’s highly reactive clay soil.
Prior to repair works, the badly deteriorated brickwork was concealed under multiple layers of lead, plastic and cement paint, while salt attack and building movement continued to damage the brickwork. Our team worked with a highly experienced heritage bricklayer to develop a solution for conserving the brickwork, leading to an ingenious and rarely-seen process of turning almost every brick one-by-one.
A structural engineer with extensive heritage experience designed underpinning with an integral raft slab to achieve building stability and prevent brickwork cracking. Timber doors, window joinery and structural framing were refurbished, and natural ventilation systems reinstated, while flood-resilient features were integrated in the building.
Through this work, current and future generations can appreciate and engage with this highly significant piece of local history.
“The restoration project embarked upon by the Warwick East State School has not only preserved the building’s original character and architectural integrity but has also fortified it against future flooding events.
Expert craftsmanship has meticulously restored and repaired the hand-pressed brickwork, reinvigorating its historical charm.
The intricate details, ornate facades, and unique architectural features have been painstakingly revitalised, ensuring the building continues to serve as a visual testament to the past.
This award recognises the tireless efforts and vision of the Warwick East State School in revitalising this iconic structure, preserving its legacy for future generations, and reinforcing its enduring importance in the community.”
– AIA Queensland State Architecture Awards Jury Citation, 2023.
MoreLess
Client:
Queensland Government Department of Education
Location:
Warwick, Queensland
Status:
2022
Traditional custodians of the land:
Githabul people from Geinyan group
Contact Person:
David Gole
Awards
2023 AIA Architecture Awards — The Don Roderick Award For Heritage, Queensland State Award
2023 AIA Architecture Awards — Commendation Heritage Architecture
2023 AIA Architecture Awards — People’s Choice Award, Darling Downs and West Moreton Region
Key People
David Gole
Principal
Sector Leader Heritage
Brisbane
Canberra
