Conserving Brisbane’s iconic Old Museum Building
Designed by architect GMH Addison
The Old Museum Building (OMB) at Bowen Hills is a jewel in Brisbane’s architectural crown and one of the most high-profile heritage buildings to be found anywhere in Queensland.
Designed by architect GMH Addison and constructed in 1891, the OMB is a State Heritage Place that was listed on the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992.
In 2009 the building was officially recognised as one of the Icons of Queensland during the Q150 celebrations.
Preserving such a significant site for future generations is of prime importance and presents a range of ongoing conservation challenges given the building’s age and grand scale.
AHS was invited to undertake a new Heritage Report for the OMB. The previous Conservation Management Plan dates back to 2000 while the Old Museum Gardens Conservation Study was completed in 1998.
Federation Romanesque architectural style
The OMB represents the peak of Brisbane’s 1880s building boom and is one of the most substantial public works constructed during this period, celebrating the spirit of nineteenth century scientific, industrial and agricultural innovation.
Its size epitomises the civic and public enthusiasm for exhibitions that existed at that time, while the Federation Romanesque architectural style employed by GMH Addison is unique in Brisbane. His use of polychrome brick in contrasting bands is an outstanding decorative feature which is instantly recognisable to many Brisbane residents.
As a symbol of the Queensland Museum for more than 80 years, the building demonstrates the evolution and development of the public museum. The Concert Hall has played an important role in the artistic life of Queensland and is significant for its constant use for cultural purposes which continues today.
The OMB has even greater importance because there are only two exhibition buildings built in Australia during the nineteenth century that are still standing, the other being in Melbourne.
Undated image showing display cases within the top floor (Queensland Youth Orchestra)
The peak of Brisbane’s 1880s building boom
Our work at OMB included a thorough review of the existing heritage conservation management reports to ensure that maintenance and conservation initiatives are continued in accordance with industry best practice.
Our new report reflects the OMB’s current and future restoration and design needs
AHS is proud to contribute to the ongoing conservation of this Queensland heritage icon, signifying our position as Australia’s leading cultural heritage consultancy.
Early 1900s postcard showing eastern entrance (Peter Marquis-Kyle)
Contact us
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The Challenge
The OMB represents the peak of Brisbane’s 1880s building boom and is one of the most substantial public works constructed during this period, celebrating the spirit of nineteenth century scientific, industrial and agricultural innovation.
Its size epitomises the civic and public enthusiasm for exhibitions that existed at that time, while the Federation Romanesque architectural style employed by GMH Addison is unique in Brisbane. His use of polychrome brick in contrasting bands is an outstanding decorative feature which is instantly recognisable to many Brisbane residents.
As a symbol of the Queensland Museum for more than 80 years, the building demonstrates the evolution and development of the public museum. The Concert Hall has played an important role in the artistic life of Queensland and is significant for its constant use for cultural purposes which continues today.
The OMB has even greater importance because there are only two exhibition buildings built in Australia during the nineteenth century that are still standing, the other being in Melbourne.
How we helped
Our work at OMB included a thorough review of the existing heritage conservation management reports to ensure that maintenance and conservation initiatives are continued in accordance with industry best practice.
Our new report reflects the OMB’s current and future restoration and design needs
AHS is proud to contribute to the ongoing conservation of this Queensland heritage icon, signifying our position as Australia’s leading cultural heritage consultancy.
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