Hamer Hall

The Hamer Hall redevelopment was an alliance between Arts Victoria, Major Projects Victoria, the Victorian Arts Centre Trust, architects Ashton, Raggatt, McDougall and builders Baulderstone. It saw substantial changes to improve the building’s functionality and amenity whilst retaining its heritage.

A.G. Coombs Projects undertook the air conditioning and mechanical services works on this project.

The installation had to take into account the facility’s age and original design peculiarities, such as its round shape (and the associated physical restraints of the building and its structure), and its heritage features, such as the gold leaf ceilings.

Acoustics was a major challenge. A displacement ventilation air conditioning system was installed, offering a number of advantages – they are intrinsically quiet, effective for seated audiences and require less energy as the air rises of its own accord.

A.G. Coombs Service and Walker Fire Protection now maintain the air conditioning and fire protection systems to support the seamless operation of the renewed facility.

The Modernisation of Melbourne’s historic Hamer Hall will help to retain its position as one of the world’s most sought after concert venues well into future. The quality and detail of the redevelopment including the air conditioning installation provides a new level of comfort for the audience.

Geoffrey Brace, Manager Asset Maintenance, Arts Centre Melbourne

Project Overview

Project Name: Hamer Hall

Location: VIC

Client: Baulderstone

Project Value: $8.7m

Year Completed: 2012

Project Type

Construction – Redevelopment (Air conditioning and mechanical services, design, installation and commissioning, maintenance)

Outcomes

  • Installation of a state-of-the-art displacement ventilation system.
  • Achieved strenuous acoustic performance requirements set for HVAC.
  • Successful accommodation of the building’s particular design and heritage challenges.

Awards

  • 2013 Lachlan Macquarie Award for Heritage
  • 2013 Australian Institute of Architects National Awards - National Award for both Interior Design and Urban Architecture

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