Burns Philip & Co
- Description Heritage restoration
- Location Sydney CBD
- Sector Commercial
- Sub-Sector Commercial, Workplace
- Specialties Heritage, Façade, Refurbishment
- Contract Type Fixed Lump Sum
- Delivery Method Construction Management
- Client Burns Philip & Co
- Architect John R. Brogan & Associates
- Photographer Not Applicable
The heritage-listed Burns Philp & Co building, located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, suffered extensive fire and water damage in the late 1990’s.
A Conservation Plan prepared in 2005 mandated the retention and reinstatement of its original sandstone and brick façade, structural systems, and internal finishes to preserve the building’s historic significance.
Originally constructed in 1903 for £60,000 (approximately $4.4 million in today’s currency), the building was one of the earliest in Sydney to combine a cast and wrought iron structural frame with traditional stone and brickwork. At the time, this pioneering method allowed the external façade to remain loadbearing while being stabilised by the internal frame.
The restoration works reinstated all three floors and the basement, repairing fire and water damage sustained from the blaze in the adjoining property. The project was highly technical, requiring careful restoration of original heritage features, including the main entrance chandeliers, staircases, timber beams, windows, walls, and ceilings. Structural systems were also strengthened to ensure the long-term safety and stability of the building.
The complexity of the restoration demanded close collaboration with the Client, Architect, Unions, WorkCover, and Council. Works were carefully planned and executed within strict time constraints to ensure the building could reopen to the public without delay.
Our team successfully returned this landmark building to its original grandeur, preserving an important part of Sydney’s heritage while meeting all program, quality, and budget expectations.
