During those lost COVID years the Victorian Trades Hall underwent a massive renovation which focused on not just the building but the vital cultural heritage that lives within its walls. We have organised a tour for RHSV members only (as we have limited places).

Photos and text courtesy of architects, Lovell Chen’s, website: “The Trades Hall, on the corner of Victoria and Lygon streets in Melbourne, is one of the world’s oldest trade union buildings. It has been the home of trade unionism in the state of Victoria since 1874, and is associated with the history of the Australian Labour Party and with events significant to the whole country. In 2016, we completed a condition survey and Conservation Management Plan, considering the whole of the much-expanded complex. A grant application for state funding through the Living Heritage Program was successfully made for implementation of conservation and refurbishment works to key public spaces, the portico and the roof. The Victorian Trades Hall Council also funded works from its own resources (and individual union contributions), which were carried out at the same time.

“The Trades Hall was constructed in ten stages, the most significant of which occurred between 1876 and 1925. It is principally recognisable for its imposing two-storey Classical/Renaissance Revival facade, which has been extended relatively consistently as each new wing has been added. The earliest section (1874) is at the southern end of the site, directly behind the present Victoria Street entry building (1925). The original architects were Joseph Reed (1822-1890) and Frederick Barnes (c.1823-1883), of Reed and Barnes, designers of much of Melbourne’s grand 19th century architectural heritage, including the Royal Exhibition Building.

“Stage 1 of the project was completed in 2019. Stage 2 in 2022. Stage 3 has commenced.

“Victorian Architecture Award 2020 : Heritage Architecture – conservation
Property Council of Australia : Innovation & Excellence Awards 2022 : Best Heritage Development (Stages 1+ 2)”