These case studies provide vibrant real-world examples of heritage being valued, protected and recognised across New South Wales. Each story highlights the people, places and projects that keep our shared history alive. New case studies will be added over time as new projects unfold and our achievements continue to grow.
Spotlight on housing
Heritage is part of the housing solution.
The NSW Heritage Strategy aims to create a stronger and more inclusive, adaptable and supportive heritage system to better serve the people of New South Wales. To do this, heritage must help the NSW Government deliver on its priorities.
The NSW Government has committed to delivering 377,000 new dwellings across the state by 2029. Through thoughtful design, adaptation and reuse, it can contribute to continuity, character and community wellbeing as our neighbourhoods grow.
The case studies below demonstrate how heritage places can support new housing.
Case study: Heathcote Hall adapted for a growing city
Built in 1887, Heathcote Hall has been described as ‘one of the oldest and greatest buildings in the Sutherland Shire’ but had deteriorated over many years.
In 2019, the development of 35 townhouses and 20 apartments was approved for the space surrounding the main building. As a condition of the approval, the hall has been carefully restored, while other areas of the site provide new homes.
Heritage NSW worked with the developer to ensure new development respected its historic setting and interpretation plaques at the site help to tell its story.
-
Heathcote Hall, Sutherland Shire -
New homes in the space surrounding Heathcote Hall, Sutherland Shire
Case study: the Flour Mill of Summer Hill
The Flour Mill of Summer Hill showcases how bringing together the old and the new can produce vibrant, multi-layered urban environments. The original mill complex was built in 1922, with large silo structures following in later years, and is an important industrial landmark in the local area.
Since 2016, the heritage building has been restored and developed into commercial space, and 360 apartments and terraces have been developed on the site, including in the towering silos. Through considerable community collaboration and thoughtful planning, much of the heritage character has been retained.
Reusing this heritage site has provided unique public spaces and opportunities to foster community connection.
