Powerhouse Precinct at Mildura Riverfront
Adaptive reuse of a heritage structure into a flexible community and events facility.
Client:
Mildura Rural City Council
Location:
Hugh King Drive, Mildura VIC
Status:
Completed
Sector:
Government
Sports & Recreation
Photo Credit:
Mildura Rural City Council
Video Credit:
Mildura Rural City Council
Overview
Adaptive Reuse of a Historic Riverfront Landmark
Powerhouse Precinct forms part of Stage 2 of the Mildura Riverfront Redevelopment, a programme with a construction value exceeding $10 million. The project centred on the adaptive reuse of the 1920s Powerhouse building, transforming it into the Powerhouse Hall, a flexible events space supporting a wide range of community, cultural, and commercial activities.
The redevelopment introduced a variety of spaces, including large-format event areas capable of hosting seated and standing events, smaller breakout spaces, and supporting facilities such as an on-site kitchen. The precinct also incorporates a café and kiosk, contributing to activation of the broader riverfront and supporting local businesses.
Our Role
Building Services Integration Within a Heritage Structure
BSE partnered with Mildura Rural City Council, Public Realm Lab, Rork Projects, and Bridge42 to deliver electrical, mechanical, fire protection, and hydraulic engineering services across design, documentation, and construction phases.
The role required detailed coordination of services within an existing heritage structure, navigating spatial constraints and construction limitations while maintaining alignment with the architectural intent. Services reticulation was carefully integrated into the existing building fabric to support new uses without compromising heritage character.
Outcomes
A Vibrant Community Hub with Recognised Design Excellence
The redevelopment delivers a functional and flexible public facility that accommodates a diverse range of events and activities, strengthening the role of the riverfront as a social and cultural destination for the region.
Activation of the precinct through new commercial and community uses, including hospitality and event programming, supports local economic activity and enhances public engagement with the site.
The project has been recognised with multiple honours at the 2024 Victorian Architecture Awards, including the Victorian Architecture Medal, the Joseph Reed Award for Urban Design, the Allan and Beth Coldicutt Award for Sustainable Architecture, and the Regional Prize.
BSE’s coordinated services design contributed to the successful integration of modern infrastructure within a heritage structure, supporting a durable and adaptable outcome for long-term community use.
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