Respecting the past while creating a future with the expertise of heritage consultant Bryce Raworth
Bryce Raworth is an award-winning heritage consultation firm. Filled with architects, engineers, planners and designers, the firm has deservedly been consulted on a range of heritage projects around Victoria including the Heide Museum of Modern art, Melbourne Grammar School and Coriyule Homestead. Their work is highly regarded in the heritage world as they work closely with councils and Heritage Victoria on each of their projects.
As the future plans for Pentridge begin to take shape, it was essential to stakeholders that a professional heritage-consulting firm be involved in any plans. Bryce Raworth consultants were an obvious choice for this role as they offer a wide range of heritage consolation services from initial site assessments to preparing heritage management plans, design and restoration advice.
To assist with the future plans for Pentridge, the associates created an in-depth Heritage Conservation Plan for the site. It takes into account both preservation and restoration of important historical aspects as well as recommendations for future changes. This plan is not only for invested parties, but to keep the local neighborhood informed on the importance of particular buildings and their history.
Bryce Raworth noted that the conservation plan offers the potential to adapt historic buildings so that they become ‘essential parts of a living environment rather than just monuments adjacent to more recent developments’, an objective shared by the Coburg community and investors alike.
Raworth’s firm have been excited by the opportunities the site offers and the concept of revitalising the grounds with new objectives and purpose. While they are dedicated to historical preservation, the firm also consults on best practices for repurposing heritage sites in a respectful manner, giving sites new purpose local communities can enjoy.
‘Some of the public may feel that there is a stigma or undesirable atmosphere that lingers with the Pentridge Prison environment. In reality this is not the case, and the buildings essentially present as handsome, very interesting structures that provide a wonderful resource and also act as a positive backdrop for new buildings and for community use.’
As Pentridge’s Masterplan continues to evolve, both heritage consultants and community members will continue to be involved in shaping its development.
We encourage all interested parties to read the heritage documents prepared by Bryce Raworth as they offer a detailed analysis of current buildings, their importance and the firm’s professional recommendations for the future of the site.
Image by artist William H. Jarrett, 1853