At a glance

Location

Western Australia, Australia

Type of project

Construction

Client

State Government of Western Australia, Department of Finance, Strategic Projects and Asset Sales

Contract type

Design and Construct

Status

Completed

A world-class museum experience

The WA Museum Boola Bardip is a landmark building that redefines the cultural experience in Perth through the integration of contemporary architecture and heritage preservation.

The redevelopment combines a striking new museum building with five heritage structures, connecting them for the first time in the Museum's history and creating a leading example of adaptive reuse.

Almost four times larger than the original museum, the development features nearly 7,000 square metres of gallery space, dedicated education studios, public gathering areas, retail and hospitality offerings, and spaces where visitors can observe scientists and curators at work. A prominent cantilever element and innovative architectural design create a distinctive civic destination that balances old and new. The project contributes to the continued transformation of Perth while preserving the site's historical significance and delivering an exceptional visitor experience.

  • Architect: HASSELL and OMA
  • Structural Engineers:BG&E
  • Electrical, Fire, Hydraulics, Mechanical and Acoustic Engineers: Wood and Grieve
  • 2020 – Winner, Australian Construction Achievement Award, Australian Constructors Association
  • 2020 - Winner, Excellence in Construction Awards - Best Public Use Building Over $100m, Master Builders Association 
  • 2020 - Winner, Excellence in Construction Awards - Best Historic Restoration or Renovation over $100m, Master Builders Association 
  • 2020 - Winner, Excellence in Construction Awards - Best Government Building Over $100m, Master Builders Association 
  • 2021 - Winner, Excellence in Construction Awards - Best Building Fitout $50-$100m, Master Builders Association 

Project in numbers

4

times bigger than the pre-existing museum

7,000m2

of galleries

1,000m2

to host blockbuster exhibitions