Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung
Victoria
Stage 3 of the Trades Hall conservation program completes a comprehensive suite of works undertaken in three stages since 2017. Trades Hall is one of the world’s oldest purpose‑built trade union complexes in continuous use and is of national significance, forming part of an international serial nomination for UNESCO World Heritage listing. Constructed between 1874 and 1925, the building embodies the development of the labour movement and its enduring civic presence.
This stage focused on the Victoria Street wing, incorporating both the earliest 1874 stage and the final 1925 additions. Works refurbished public event and administrative spaces to improve sustainability, accessibility, amenity and compliance, supporting ongoing union, community and cultural use.
The project included conservation of the Victoria Street foyer’s historic painted interior, including significant honour boards. Investigations revealed overpainted schemes dating from 1906–1911. A minimal‑intervention approach restored legibility and reinforced the building’s social, political and cultural significance.
Lovell Chen has provided exceptional heritage architect and project management services to Victorian Trades Hall for over ten years. The most recent stage of restoration, Stage 3, was again designed and managed by Lovell Chen. Their commitment to quality and focus on client needs are first rate, and enable the delivery of the project a month early and on-budget. Lovell Chen’s deep understanding of heritage buildings has enabled the restoration and transformation of Trades Hall, producing a modern workplace while maintain its nation and international significance. We are proud to support Lovell Chen’s nomination for recognition of this important work.