Plans to transform historic Albert Park Lake Powerhouse building
An Albert Park Lake icon has fallen into disrepair, but a $19.6 m investment aims to turn it into a state-of-the-art building. See the plans
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A Melbourne charity wants to transform its ageing headquarters into a state-of-the-art space overlooking Albert Park Lake and the CBD to secure long-term aid for the community.
The Powerhouse building was first erected as a boatshed in 1932 and upgraded as a community facility in the 60s, at the instruction of former state governor Lord Somers.
Despite becoming home to charities, theatre, sporting groups, weddings and functions, the Lakeside Drive building has fallen into disrepair and has a leaking roof.
A $19.6m plan by John Wardle Architects to breathe new life into the building and guarantee its future has been drafted and supported by the federal government and philanthropists.
Lord Somers Camp and Power House chief Tim Ryan said the not-for-profit organisation could turn its declining revenue base around and keep helping the needy if the building were restored. “The building has taken care of the community for so long, it’s time for us to take care of the building and bring it back to the life that it once lived.’’
The revamp would see the length of the building opened up to water views, a community hall, social enterprise cafe and collaboration spaces opened and more weatherproof areas added. Plans include a new theatre, separate to an upgraded function space, gym, kitchen, outdoor balcony, and a more free-flowing ground floor with a lobby and lifts.
The federal government has committed $5m to the plan and $4.5m has been raised through donations.
But the rebuild will only go ahead if it is supported by the Andrews government.
In a statement, the state government said: “We supported Powerhouse with full rent relief in 2020 and are happy to look at any proposals they put forward.’’
Mr Ryan said the building had been “a beacon of community connection”, hosting dances in the 60s and 70s and now home to rowing, AFL, rugby, basketball, cricket and netball clubs. But it was now crumbling and needed urgent works to ensure it could be used as a community hub for the next 70 years.
“We are halfway there – the next phase is working with state,’’ he said.
It is expected construction would create 140 jobs over 18 months.
John Wardle principal Minnie Cade said “clever and innovative adaptive reuse of this landmark building” would “reimagine an important cultural institution’’.
“This is an iconic building and it is important we maintain the architectural characteristics whilst ensuring the spaces are accessible, modernised and fit for purpose for decades to come,’’ she said.
“Providing increased natural light … more open points of entry and dwell space will vastly increase the welcoming experience.”
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