Lady Norman (Circa 1895) | Elevation Architecture

Lady Norman (Circa 1895) | Elevation Architecture | Photographer: Kian Gee Kee

2026 National Architecture Awards Program

Lady Norman (Circa 1895) | Elevation Architecture

Traditional Land Owners

Turrbal and Yuggera

Year
2026
Chapter

Queensland

Region

Brisbane

Category
Heritage
Builder
Aite Group
Photographer
Kian Gee Kee
Media summary

The restoration of the Lady Norman Building marks the completion of the heritage component of the Herston Quarter revitalisation, returning a historic building to its former glory and a position of civic and cultural significance. The project carefully balances heritage conservation with present requirements, upgrading the building to meet contemporary operational requirements while restoring and celebrating its original character.

Positioned alongside the Edith Cavell Building and Lady Lamington Building, the project strengthens connections across the precinct and introduces a welcoming courtyard that enhances pedestrian movement and public amenity.

Delivered through a highly collaborative process led by Elevation Architecture and Aite Group, the project demonstrates how public heritage buildings can be respectfully adapted to serve contemporary needs, ensuring long-term relevance, sustainability and cultural value.

This project has given new life to the Lady Norman Building, transforming it into a flexible, contemporary asset while remaining respectful of its history and long connection to the community. Constructed in 1895 and opened in 1896 to relieve overcrowding at the adjacent Children’s Hospital, the building required upgrades to services, accessibility and compliance. These have been carefully integrated to preserve its character and integrity. A stronger connection to Herston Quarter improves movement and experience across the site. Completing the Heritage Precinct, the shared courtyard offers a calm, welcoming space that enhances amenity. The building remains purposeful, dignified and future-ready.

Project Practice Team

Greg Adsett, Project Architect
Andrea Picanza, Project Architect
Patrick Thomas, Graduate of Architecture

Project Consultant and Construction Team

Ruth Woods, Heritage Consultant
Hassell, Landscape Consultant
ADG Engineers, Engineer
Ashburner Francis, Engineer
Knisco, Access Consultant
McKenzie Group Consulting, Certifier
MRP Hydrailc & Fire Services Consultants, Hydraulic Consultant
Omnii Pty Ltd, Fire Engineer
Acoustic Works, Acoustic Consultant

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