Designed by Victorian Gothic Revival architect B W Mountfort and built in 1882, the Great Hall at the Arts Centre was, like all buildings in the complex, damaged in the 2010/11 earthquakes. An outstanding programme to ensure the Hall’s effective repair and longevity has been undertaken with a forward thinking seismic retrofit and the utmost attention to detail to ensure, as the entry states, that “…its historic features remained the hero.”

Judge Citation: The retention and restoration of the timber arched interior has ensured that the historic value of the space has been saved for future generations to enjoy. The original ceiling, wainscot panelled walls, tongue and grove flooring along with the restored organ have all been saved as part of the rebuild. The new exterior envelope is sympathetic to the brick it replaces and the judges felt that the goal to “…ensure that the all-new exterior speaks of a 2014 rebuild and in turn contrasts with the 1902 interior” has been seamlessly executed.

Recognised because the seismic strengthening work carried out pre-earthquake allowed this historic industrial building to survive the earthquakes virtually unscathed. The Malthouse Theatre Trust are congratulated on their foresight, tenacity and dedication to complete the seismic upgrade.

Standing strong after thousands of earthquakes is testament to the high standard of its original construction and to the seismic upgrading work undertaken by Holmes Consulting Group. Its long street facades on an important corner of Cathedral Square will provide a limited reminder of the heritage buildings that populated Cathedral Square pre-earthquakes.