Sydney Ultimo Tafe, Building C
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NSW Public Works under the Minister’s Stonework Program were engaged to manage the conservation works required to prolong the life of significant building fabric and ensure the building’s long-term conservation by repairing and/or replacing defective fabric that has reached the end of its functional life.
Ultimo TAFE building repaired to protect its rich heritage
The 1893 building was beautifully restored to its former condition, prolonging the life of its external façade.
A brief history
The former Technological Museum (Building C) is the first purpose-built technological museum in Australia and one of the first in the world.
Sydney Technical College Buildings A and B, along with the former Technological Museum (C), were meticulously erected between 1891 and 1893 under the creative direction of William Kemp.
The prevailing architectural motif adorning these structures is an unwavering "Federation Romanesque" style, masterfully melded together by an interplay of multicoloured brickwork, meticulously chiselled sandstone embellishments, intricate terracotta panels, and roofs adorned with verdant slates. These diverse elements, in conjunction with other intricate nuances such as exquisitely adorned stained glass and intricately crafted wrought ironwork, coalesce to instil an ethos and artistic philosophy rooted in the Aesthetic Movement.
Scope of works
Services provided by NSW Public Works included technical leadership, project and contract management, co-funding, architectural and structural documentation, and quality control.
Conservation works undertaken throughout 2011-2012, 2020-2023 included:
- replacement of deteriorated sandstone that has reached the end of its functional life or is structurally unsound
- synthetic stone repair
- timber windows and door repair
- repointing
- external façade cleaning
- desalination and bird proofing services.
Unique carvings
Central to this overarching design vernacular are the intricately carved motifs, despite the occasional inconsistencies in both their subjects and styles. Occasionally, there is a duplication of botanical and zoological elements, yet seldom do two instances of flowers, avian creatures, or animals present themselves identically.
Each carving stands as a distinctive testament to the consummate skill of its creator. It is a logical assumption that not only were disparate carvers engaged for the three distinct buildings, but within each endeavour, a multitude of diverse artisans and styles find expression.
