Queensland
Darling Downs and West Moreton
The conservation of the state heritage listed National School Building at Warwick East State School has breathed new life into one of Queensland’s oldest surviving school buildings.
Built in 1864, the building endured significant damage to its foundations and brickwork due to periodic flooding and the site’s reactive clay soil.
Conrad Gargett worked with a highly experienced heritage bricklayer to develop a solution for conserving the brickwork, leading to an ingenious and rarely-seen process of turning almost every brick one-by-one.
A structural engineer with extensive heritage experience designed underpinning with an integral raft slab to achieve building stability and prevent brickwork cracking.
Timber doors, window joinery and structural framing were refurbished, and natural ventilation systems reinstated, while flood-resilient features were integrated in the building.
Through this work, current and future generations can appreciate and engage with this highly significant piece of local history.
The restoration of the Warwick East State School has revived this state-listed heritage building, breathing new life into one of Queensland’s oldest surviving school buildings while significantly increasing its flood-resilience.
Built in 1864, the hand-pressed brick building has endured the test of time and embodies the rich educational heritage of the region. However, its historical significance was marred by the devastating impact of floods, which had caused significant damage to the structure.
The restoration project embarked upon by the Warwick East State School has not only preserved the building’s original character and architectural integrity but has also fortified it against future flooding events. Expert craftsmanship has meticulously restored and repaired the hand-pressed brickwork, reinvigorating its historical charm.
The intricate details, ornate facades, and unique architectural features have been painstakingly revitalised, ensuring the building continues to serve as a visual testament to the past.
This award recognises the tireless efforts and vision of the Warwick East State School in revitalising this iconic structure, preserving its legacy for future generations, and reinforcing its enduring importance in the community.
Michael Scott, Project lead/ Senior Heritage Architect
Nic Martoo, Project Support
Tamarind Taylor, Initial Project Architect
Yasmine Melis, Project Support
Yolandé Vorster, Project Architect
Ashburner Francis, Electrical Consultant
Bligh Tanner, Structural & Civil Engineer
Dunn Moran Landscape Architects, Landscape Consultant
GRC Quantity Surveyors, Quantity Surveyor
Knisco, Certifier
Mozbiz, Heritage Brick Restoration Specialist
Natalie List, Heritage Consultant (colour study)
QBuild, Project Manager
Reid Consulting Engineers, Geotech Engineer and Surveyor
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.
