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Conservation Architect

design

When you need one

Heritage works requiring registered architect with conservation specialisation — VHR / SHR items, adaptive reuse of significant fabric.

Qualifications

Registered Architect + post-graduate conservation training + Australia ICOMOS membership often.

Professional body

Australian Institute of Architects (Heritage Specialty Committee) + Australia ICOMOS

Typical cost (Heritage residential adaptive reuse)

A$8,000–80,000

Per-state notes

NSW: Section 60 approval from Heritage Council for SHR items. VIC: Heritage Victoria permit for VHR. Federal: NHL items via Minister.

Key outputs

✓Conservation Management Plan (CMP)
✓Schedule of significant fabric to retain
✓Specification for traditional materials + techniques
✓Coordination with Heritage Council + state heritage agency
✓Documentation suitable for Section 60 (NSW) / Heritage Vic permit
✓Working with master craftspeople for restoration

What triggers engaging them

▸State Heritage Register item
▸Local heritage item with major alterations
▸Heritage Conservation Area significant addition
▸Adaptive reuse of significant fabric

Notes

Conservation Architects cost more than standard architects but unlock projects that ordinary practitioners can't deliver compliantly. Often work alongside heritage consultant + structural engineer with restoration experience.