The spectacular new design for the New Museum for Western Australia aims to link contemporary architecture with the historic and heritage-listed buildings, creating a visual landmark for Western Australia.
The New Museum for Western Australia will be significantly bigger than the existing WA Museum, featuring nearly 6,000 square metres of galleries, including a 1,000 square metre space to stage large-scale, special exhibitions. It will also feature learning studios, spaces to experience the behind the scenes work of the WA Museum as well as various retail and café spaces.
The $395.9 million project includes the design and construction of a new building that integrates with the existing heritage buildings, along with heritage restoration works to Old Gaol, Jubilee, Beaufort and Hackett buildings and a $1.6 million public art project at the New Museum’s site. The building was designed by architecture firms HASSELL and OMA design, and construction has been appointed to Multiplex.
According to HASSELL, the new museum will also feature a large new temporary gallery space which will ‘complement the extensive permanent collection of the museum’ including well-known editions such as the much-loved Blue Whale skeleton.
Images courtesy of HASSEL and OMA design
The museum will feature a sustainable and energy efficient Central Energy Plant that will service the Museum and other surrounding buildings. This is expected to reduce energy use and CO2 emissions in the area by 30-40 per cent in 2020.
HASSELL Principal and Board Director Mark Loughnan, and OMA Managing Partner-Architect David Gianotten explained that their vision for the design was to create spaces that promote engagement and collaboration which formed a design that responds to the needs of the Museum and the community.
“We want the New Museum for Western Australia to create a civic place for everyone, an interesting mix of heritage and contemporary architecture that helps revitalise the Perth Cultural Centre while celebrating the culture of Western Australia on the world stage,” they said.
The design is based on the intersection of a horizontal and vertical loop, creating large possibilities of curatorial strategies for both temporary and fixed exhibitions.
“At the heart of the design is a public space that is the central point of the new museum, in terms of both location and programming. It is a spectacular outdoor room framed by refurbished heritage buildings and intersected by new buildings and virtual platforms, enabling the diverse stories of Western Australia to be told.”
Construction began in 2018 with the building expected to be complete by 2019. Exhibition installation will occur throughout 2019 – 2020, with the New Museum’s doors to open in 2020.
More information on this project can be found here.
 acknowledges the government’s recently announced $10 billion housing fund initiative to construct 30,000 new homes in the next five years as a positive initial step in addressing the immediate housing needs of Australia. However, this vision needs to encompass not just housing, but the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure to effectively support population growth. *The Intergenerational Report 2023*, recently released by the Treasurer of Australia, echoes this necessity, outlining the critical role of infrastructure in supporting socio-economic development and enabling economic and productivity growth. It highlights the continued and increasing investment in infrastructure to help reduce congestion and ensure the smooth, efficient movement of goods and people nationally and internationally. These measures are instrumental in enhancing connectivity, providing access to employment, healthcare, education, and community activities. CJC Management believes that true, sustainable growth requires a far-reaching, holistic approach. While appreciative of the government's focus on housing, the company recognises that extensive and collaborative efforts are needed beyond this sector. CJC Management Group Managing Director Colin Calder said: “The $10 billion housing fund and the Federal Government’s commitment to transport infrastructure expenditure give us a framework upon which we can construct a strong and resilient infrastructure for Australia. As the report suggests, a strategic review of the Infrastructure Investment Program and enhanced planning and coordination with states and territories are essential to improve the quality and sustainability of long-term infrastructure spending.” The Australian engineering and construction industry is changing, especially in regards to the management of project delivery risks. Calder believes that to adapt to this changing landscape, “Organisations will need to establish robust governance, incorporate thorough risk management practices, and employ advanced digital systems for accurate reporting and forecasting. Early engagement with contractors and the adoption of adaptable, performance-incentivised delivery models will be crucial for navigating this emerging industry scenario efficiently.” The construction industry continues to face numerous challenges, including escalated material costs, labour issues, and supply chain disruptions, which are contributing to poor project performance. According to KPMG, with only half of the projects being completed on time, contractors worldwide including in Australia, are under significant pressure. Despite these obstacles, there’s a substantial opportunity for improvement in the sector. Organisations handling major projects should prioritise proper delivery and procurement models, precise cost estimates, and realistic schedules. Emphasis should also be on comprehensive risk management, cost analysis, fair risk distribution, efficient project management offices, solid governance, integrated project controls, and utilising data analytics and technology to boost project performance and productivity. A growing trend is evident as the construction industry increasingly adopts diverse technologies including mobile platforms, AI, and robotic process automation. Alongside the notable surge in modular or offsite manufacturing, these advanced technologies and methods are poised to markedly enhance the industry's efficiency and overall performance. Emphasising the importance of advanced tools, the sector is turning its attention towards project management information systems, integrated project controls, building information models, and sophisticated data analytics to amplify return on investment in construction projects. ESG considerations are emerging as a central focus not just in Australia, but globally in the infrastructure and construction sectors. Organisations are actively urging the industry to embrace more environmentally sustainable practices. Calder said: “This push is resulting in a significant shift with industry leaders establishing ambitious targets for reducing carbon footprints, waste, and pollution and heightening biodiversity awareness.” In addition, there is a marked effort to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry, all factors that are vital for future success. . “We are beginning to witness the industry not just talk about, but also act upon the belief that a diverse workforce is pivotal for enhancing project resilience. There is still a long way to go but, this industry approach effectively tackles disruption, brings fresh skills and perspectives to the forefront, and adeptly handles challenges tied to scheduling, remote working, and job site travel. To ensure continued progress, the industry needs to hold firm in its commitment to fostering inclusivity, investing in training and development, and implementing policies that support a diverse and equitable workplace,” said Calder. As Australia takes steps toward infrastructural improvement, Calder concludes that it is vital for the entire industry to look beyond traditional construction. “The inclusion of digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and workforce diversity is essential for the journey ahead. Together with other industry leaders, CJC Management is ready to share insights and collaborate extensively to ensure that our collective infrastructure robustly meets future demands and challenges particularly as our population grows,” said Calder.](https://www.buildaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/shutterstock_1108946396_edited-1000x667-1.jpg)
