Perth’s iconic home of music to get a new lease on life
Originally designed by architects Jeffrey Howlett and Don Bailey, the Perth Concert Hall was the first concert hall to be built in Australia after World War II. Its construction and completion was carried out by Sabemo (WA) with its doors opening to the public on Australia Day (January 26) 1973.
After 51 years of continuous operation, the heritage listed building will undergo a full revitalisation for the benefit of artists, audiences and the community.
The redevelopment work includes:
- preservation of the concert hall’s world-renowned acoustic features
- essential structural maintenance of the award-winning building architecture
- updated seating, new rehearsal spaces and improved backstage facilities
- refurbishment of the foyer areas, including upgraded signage and lighting
- new food and drink offerings
- improved venue accessibility, with remodelling of the auditorium entry, lifts and stairs, as well as additional toilets and box office relocation
- transformed outdoor spaces
- new spaces for small events, school educational visits and training.
As the home of music in WA, the redeveloped Perth Concert Hall will offer improved facilities for broader community engagement and precinct activation as well as providing a true home for the West Australian Symphony Orchestra.
The $150.3 million investment consists of $134.3 million in State Government funds through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, $12 million from the Australian Government and $4 million from the City of Perth.
Design firms WITH Architecture Studio and Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA) are the lead architects for the redevelopment works that are set to begin in early 2025. The concert hall, forecourts and car park will be closed to the public during construction works, with the venue anticipated to re-open in early 2028.
