POWERHOUSE MUSEUM RETHINK ON RELOCATION DECISION WELCOME NEWS FOR DESIGNERS

13 July 2020

The Design Institute of (DIA) is relieved that the views of the design community and others over the last five years have been heard and that the planned move to and the redevelopment of the Ultimo site won’t proceed.

The has existed in Ultimo in various forms for over 125 years. It holds a vast collection of national importance and has built a broad community around its public programs. *As the DIA argued in 2015 when the relocation and redevelopment plans were announced, the current adaptive re-use of the former Ultimo power station is also an important example of ’s postmodern built heritage. The Powerhouse Museum is listed by the National Trust and in 1988 was awarded the Sir Medal, the highest architectural prize of the chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects. It has also won a range of other awards, including the National Royal Australian Institute of Architects Award for Interiors.

Quotes attributable to Jo-Ann Kellock, DIA Chief Executive Officer:

“The Design Institute of Australia has always recognized the importance of the Powerhouse Museum to the nation’s design heritage. As a country, we have much to be proud of across the design disciplines. Our future prosperity is linked to understanding the role and value of design and the Powerhouse Museum is integral to building this awareness.”

Quotes attributable to Bradley Schott, Chair, Policy Committee:

“The needs of the design community and the community of western Sydney can both be served by this decision. Retaining the Powerhouse in its current location maintains its accessibility for designers within close proximity of the Art Gallery of NSW and the Surry Hills design district and enables longstanding education and family programs to continue without interruption. Importantly, the decision also provides the opportunity to design a facility in western Sydney to showcase work from all of the major Sydney institutions who currently display only a fraction of their collections. Such a facility would provide far greater benefits for the community of western Sydney than a context-free relocation of a single institution.”

*DIA Position Paper: Powerhouse Museum *Fate of the Powerhouse Museum up in the air

Media comment and interviews: Jo-Ann Kellock – Chief Executive Officer [email protected] M 0417 348 924 Bradley Schott – Chair Policy Committee [email protected] M 0414 234 679

Design Institute of Australia 27 Derby Street T 1300 888 056

design.org.au