Nestled in the heart of Dulwich, the former Freemasons Hall and picture theatre is being respectfully restored and reinvigorated through the considered conservation and adaptive reuse of this local heritage place.
Our team was engaged to lead the concept design, planning, documentation and delivery of the project, transforming the former Melba Theatre into four townhouses while retaining an existing retail tenancy at the street frontage.
Working closely with Stevens Architects, the project applies best-practice heritage conservation principles to sensitively adapt the building for contemporary use while honouring its original character and identity.
The design prioritises the retention and restoration of significant heritage fabric, including the existing shopfront, masonry, render, cast ironwork, original leadlighting and interior finishes. Conservation works include masonry repointing, render repair, salt damp remediation and reinforcement of existing masonry walls, alongside the careful repair or replacement of heritage elements where required.
Through a balance of conservation and adaptive reuse, the project gives this local landmark a new purpose while ensuring its history and contribution to the Dulwich streetscape are preserved for the future.
