Wadawurrung people
Victoria
Norwich Plaza, Ballarat restores a long-obscured commercial landmark in the heart of regional Victoria.
What began as a brief to refresh a dated shopping centre became an exercise in elective heritage, after early investigation revealed postwar masonry beneath later overcladding. Rather than replace the building, the project prioritises reuse, revealing the original brick façade and reinstating its civic presence along Bridge Mall.
The design response focussed on removing non-original layers of built fabric in order to retain embodied carbon, improve safety and compliance, and unlock spatial clarity within the existing structure. Internally, the building was reconfigured to deliver flexible commercial tenancies and improved amenity, and to provide a clear public address, including a new double-height entry and continuous awning that reinforces Ballarat’s historic streetscapes.
The project demonstrates how design-led reinvestment in regional centres can deliver commercially viable, environmentally responsive architecture while strengthening local identity and supporting ongoing urban renewal.
The Norwich Plaza redesign has transformed our asset into a high-value destination, significantly boosting leasing leverage. Uncovering the iconic Morshead of Ballarat brick façade has created a "hero" storefront that attracts premium tenants seeking prestige and heritage character.
Internally, the optimized floor plan offers versatile, high-performing layouts that justify premium rental rates and improve tenant retention. Furthermore, its alignment with the Bridge Mall precinct renewal ensures the property serves as a central hub. This strategic positioning guarantees consistent foot traffic and long-term growth, allowing us to lease spaces as part of a landmark urban revitalization project.
Rory Sheppard, Project Architect
Perri Sparnon, Graduate of Architecture
Fontic, Project Manager
Tract Consultants, Town Planner
SWA, Building Surveyor
Edge Consulting Engineers, Structural and Civil Engineer
Wrap Consulting Engineering, Services Consultant
Jensen Hughes, Fire Engineer
BG&E Façade Consultants, Facade Consultant
McClellands Consulting Engineers, Structural & Drainage Consultant
Wrap Consulting Engineering, ESD Consultant