Northcote Theatre is the refurbishment of a heritage listed building into a performing arts venue. The upper mezzanine level had not been used for the last 40 years, the project has rejuvenated the venue creating a unique experience.
The scope of work included a reinstatement of the foyer staircase, tiered seating within the mezzanine and balcony stalls, activation of the hospitality spaces on High St, minimal yet effective refurbishment of the original heritage architecture, refurbishment of existing amenities, modernisation of the venue with lift and DDA compliance, restoration of deteriorating interiors and adding unique bar experiences throughout the venue. Two external staircases were designed to create egress circulation to a future rooftop deck and bar with opportunities to view Mt Dandenong due to clear sightlines from Ruckers Hill.
The project is a complex mix of renovation, restoration, and new build on a state heritage listed site to create a seamless experience for patrons and operators. This work involved a high degree of collaboration and coordination with the client, local council, planning consultants, heritage consultant and Heritage Victoria, environmentally sustainable design consultants, fire services engineers, structural engineers, building surveyors, traffic and waste consultants, suppliers and fabricators.
The project retains and maximises the potential of what exists whilst making effective design interventions that transform the venue into a dynamic performing arts space.
A longer-term plan for the venue to achieve carbon neutral operations was developed in collaboration with LID consulting.