Turrbul
Queensland
Brisbane
The renovation of Morven House at St. Patrick’s College, as part of an overall masterplan by Elevation Architecture, thoughtfully balances historical preservation with modern functionality. Morven House, a significant piece of Brisbane’s architectural and historical past dating back to the 1860s, has been transformed into a vibrant administrative hub that respects its rich heritage while meeting contemporary needs. The renovation preserves key historical elements while integrating modern additions to enhance functionality and flow. A highlight of the project was the discovery of an intact 1860s beehive well, now an educational feature that connects students to the building’s origins. The project addressed challenges like rising damp with innovative solutions, ensuring the building’s longevity. Morven House now serves as a central hub for the college community, offering a welcoming environment for parents, students, and staff, and stands as a testament to the college’s commitment to honouring its past while embracing the future.
Over time Morven Building had become pokey and tired, but Elevation Architecture have created a design which has opened the building up resulting in enhanced pedestrian traffic flow by simple reference to early heritage building designs. Further, and importantly, the design respects and reinstates much of the history of the building but with a modern ‘feel’. Put simply all of this has brought the building back to life. The spaces in the building are inviting and the staff are thrilled to be able to work in such a grand space. – Liam Casey
Patricia Abel, Project Architect
Maddy Fitzgerald, Graduate of Architecture
Ivan McDonald Architects, Heritage Consultant
Ashburner Francis Pty Ltd, Services Consultant
Building Surveying Professionals, Certifier
Malcolm Douglas Consultants Pty Ltd, Structural Engineer