Corrimal Coke Works
Corrimal Coke Works
A Heritage Plaza and Public Art and Interpretation Strategy as part of a major redevelopment of the former industrial Coke Works in the Illawarra.
Location
Wodi Wodi, Dharawal Country Corrimal, NSW
Client
Legacy Property & Illawarra Coke Company
Completion
Ongoing
Artists
Juundaal Strang-Yettica Trent Jansen Mike Hewson
This complex adaptive re-use project weaves narratives of pre-colonial elements with the restoration of the coal hoppers and coke ovens that define the ‘coal coast’, balancing the precinct’s rich industrial history with the expression of its significant natural and cultural fabric.
We take reference from site’s linearity and location, guided by prominent structures including a 1912 Chimney Brick Stack, the Old Powerhouse Building and the C1 Battery Ovens, with additional heritage interpretation works including paving, landscape and signage. Approached with specialist conservation and historical expertise, these quintessential industrial forms are integrated into a publicly accessible plaza that honours the scale of the State Significant Site.
A waterway that connects to Towradgi Creek and a remnant endangered Illawarra Grassy Woodland bush provide habitat to many non-human residents, particularly a transient colony of grey-headed flying foxes, which hold significant cultural and spiritual value for Dharawal Peoples.
Our interpretation strategy, informed by engagement with local Knowledge Owners and communities, commissions local artists to represent these intertwined ecologies and how they can be reimagined as a cultural contribution to Corrimal’s contemporary landscape.
The existing power station structure is adapted and interpreted into pitched and pleated forms that house new hospitality offerings for Corrimal.
Heritage interpretation integrating retained coal hoppers.
Coal hopper prior to demolition.
Coke ovens prior to demolition.
Our design details food/beverage and retail offerings and an activated public space for events and markets.
Demolition revealed an extensive system of underground flues and a vast array of brick colours,
ranging from pure blonde, to rich reds, even lustrous oil-slick black bricks that had been
melted in the heat of the ovens.
Team
Credits
Site Photography
Alexander Mayes