WITH Architecture Studio and OMA to redevelop Perth Concert Hall

WITH Architecture Studio and OMA have been appointed as lead architects for the redevelopment of Western Australia's Perth Concert Hall with the $52.4 million Perth City Deal project preserving the heritage-listed concert hall and activating a future cultural hub connecting the city and the Swan River, increasing arts and culture offerings to the Perth arts and tourism sectors' recovery through and beyond the COVID- 19 pandemic.

WITH Architecture Studio (previously Donaldson and Warn) was established in 1985. Today, operating from Perth, it is a mid-sized design studio with an impressive record of built projects, and a reputation for creativity. It has won over 40 awards, including two George Temple Pool Awards: the highest honour for architecture in Western Australia.

The Perth Concert Hall opened in 1973 and stands as an example of late 20th-century architecture. The redevelopment works will restore the building's architectural integrity and enhance its renowned acoustics, distinctive features and surrounding courtyards.

The project will also feature new working spaces for the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, who will make the Perth Concert Hall their new home. The redevelopment will also improve disability access, provide water and energy saving initiatives and refurbish the forecourts to enable future festivals and other mass gatherings.

WA Minister for Culture and the Arts, David Templeman notes "this announcement marks the start of design works to redevelop the Perth Concert Hall precinct. After nearly 50 years, the popular performance venue is in need of an extensive upgrade.

"Importantly, this project is helping to make the Concert Hall the home of the WA Symphony Orchestra (WASO)."

Perth Lord Mayor, Basil Zempilas adds "I am delighted at this important next step in the redevelopment of the Perth Concert Hall. The Perth Concert Hall redevelopment will play a major role in the next phase of Perth's development as a liveable, sustainable and prosperous capital city of global standing and local wellbeing.

"This exciting redevelopment is a key initiative in the Perth City Deal to unlock economic benefits and opportunities for the City of Perth and supports the development of culture and arts in the City."

The project is jointly funded with $12 million provided by the Commonwealth, $36.4 million provided by the State and $4 million provided by the City of Perth.

The works are expected to be completed by late 2024. More information about the project is available at perthconcerthall.com.au/about/redevelopment.

For more information on the Perth City Deal, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/cities/city-deals/perth.

Image courtesy Western Australian Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries via Getty Images