John Hart Conservatory

John Hart Conservatory

Project Data

Client

Launceston City Council

Architects

CMK Architects

Duration

4 months

Value

$857,417

Completed

Oct 2025

The John Hart Conservatory Remediation project involved the restoration of one of Launceston’s most recognisable heritage structures, originally built in 1933 and listed on the State Heritage Register

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Fairbrother was engaged under a maintenance remediation contract to address significant deterioration, including cracking across both facades and ageing window frames. The scope included removing and reinstating render, installing helical bars for concrete stabilisation, replacing guttering and the entire roof, repairing all glazing and window frames, and completing a full repaint. A total of 408 panes of glass were hand-cut and installed, requiring meticulous craftsmanship to preserve the building’s heritage fabric.

Delivering the works within Launceston’s busy City Park presented logistical constraints, including restricted site access and coordination with council operations and other concurrent projects. Extensive internal and external scaffolding was required to access the high-level roof structure and to undertake detailed steel remediation works. Weather also posed challenges, with cold mornings and wet conditions limiting when concrete repair systems and painting could occur. Fairbrother mitigated delays by sequencing activities around temperature windows—shifting detailed finishes and repair works to afternoons when conditions allowed—reducing lost time and maintaining a safe, efficient work environment.

Fairbrother added value through practical innovation and heritage sensitive problem-solving. By proposing a change from copper to stainless steel gutters, the team achieved cost savings without compromising longevity. Similarly, recommending full replacement of the polycarbonate roof sheeting—rather than reusing existing material—delivered a more economical and durable outcome, as labour allowances were already included. Careful repair methodologies, including helical bar installation and detailed glazing remediation, ensured the Conservatory’s structural integrity and appearance were restored for longterm public use. The successful completion of the project preserved an important Launceston landmark and ensures its continued service as a treasured community asset.