Larrakia
Northern Territory
Lyons Cottage, a cherished piece of Darwin’s history, has been reimagined for the future while honouring its past. Built in 1925 and once home to Darwin Mayor John Lyons, the cottage—also known as the BAT House for its role in housing telegraph company employees—has always been a place of service. MODE’s careful interventions, through heritage conservation and adaptive reuse, it has been transformed into a dynamic commercial space.
Now home to House of Darwin, the revitalisation balances modern functionality with heritage integrity. MODE also introduced climate control, discreetly sealed openings, and a significant new access ramp—designed to follow the site’s natural contours while retaining historic palm trees—enhance accessibility and usability. Close collaboration between MODE, heritage specialist and engineers, this project ensures Lyons Cottage remains a vibrant part of Darwin’s cultural and economic landscape, securing its place for generations to come.
Joseph Shanahan, Project Architect
Shruti Muley, Graduate of Architecture
David Bridgman Architects, Heritage Consultant
Ashburner Francis, Electrical Consultant
Ashburner Francis, Mechanical Consultant
Major Consulting, Hydraulic Consultant
Capital House, Structural Engineer
Urban Place Design, Landscape Consultant
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
