Renovating a heritage commercial property: Aligning history with brand

A heritage property is recognised as historically or architecturally significant. In Sydney, we have heritage-listed properties and buildings within heritage conservation areas with strict restrictions on renovations and building work. We also have periodic buildings that are not bound by the same restrictions or rules, but still require careful renovation design to maintain the character elements of the fabric. 

When renovating a heritage-listed property or periodic building for commercial use, understanding what can and can’t be achieved is not only essential for compliance with local council regulations, but also to ensure an outcome that aligns with the identity of your business.

What does a heritage renovation involve?

A heritage renovation involves architectural and design work to update a property to meet current modern residential or commercial needs, while preserving its unique heritage character (building facade, decorative elements, and original fixtures). 

Interior remodelling

The internal layout of a heritage building can be redesigned to better reflect contemporary living arrangements or use. Turning a heritage property into a commercial space will require a restructuring of the layout based on operational needs. 

Upgrading for accessibility

Heritage buildings often lack accessibility features such as ramps, railings, and elevators. The heritage renovation can incorporate these accessibility requirements to better serve the commercial needs of the business. 

Improving energy efficiency

Heritage buildings can be retrofitted to enhance energy efficiency in line with modern sustainability requirements, such as the Passivhaus or LEED standards. Adding new insulation, double-glazed windows, and passive house designs to a heritage or commercial building can make it more comfortable and energy-efficient. 

Adding modern technology and features

Heritage buildings can be adapted to modern needs by upgrading wiring for internet and power access, modifying plumbing for extra bathrooms, and installing gas pipes for kitchen cooktops. 

The heritage significance of the building must be preserved – original architectural features that are considered significant, like ornate facades or stained glass designs, cannot be changed. To achieve the right balance, heritage building owners must work with a heritage consultant to identify what can and cannot be worked on. The renovation will also require the expertise of a heritage architect to develop a renovation plan that meets the future needs of the commercial space and fits within the restrictions. 

How to renovate a heritage building for commercial use

A heritage architect collaborates with building owners to plan the commercial heritage renovation project, ensuring the proposed design aligns with the building’s history, the business’s brand and vision, and heritage requirements for approval.

1. Understanding the building’s history

The local council and state heritage authorities record important details on the building’s heritage features and history. Having an understanding of how the building has been previously used and any renovation work will provide context in preserving the original character of the property. 

A heritage architect can retrieve or recreate architectural plans of the original structure to better understand the building’s layout, space, and details. 

2. Designing for future needs

A heritage architect will create a detailed renovation documentation that meets the client’s needs, from day-to-day operations to reflecting brand identity. Depending on future commercial needs, the renovation will cover interior design of the fit-out, materials and finishes, layout redesigns, alterations and additions to the property.

 Changes to the building use (e.g. residential to commercial) will involve additional industry-specific requirements, such as the National Construction Code (NCC) for fire safety standards, accessibility, and more. 

A heritage architect will be able to design a renovation that pays homage to the building’s history while showcasing a strong brand identity that attracts the ideal clientele of the business.  

3. Compliance with building regulations

The heritage architect assesses the building’s Statement of Heritage Impact to ensure that the proposed works comply with heritage building regulations. Once finalised, the heritage renovation plans are submitted to the council or state authority for building approval. Construction can start once the Construction Certificate is issued by the authority. The heritage architect can administer the building contract to ensure that the construction is aligned with the planned work and is completed defect-free.

If you plan to renovate a heritage building for commercial use, work closely with an experienced heritage architect who has a proven track record of working on commercial spaces. At Crush Architecture + Interiors, we are a team of heritage architects in Sydney specialising in renovation and retrofit projects. Our founder and lead architect, Carlo Russo, is a leading voice in sustainable and energy efficiency architecture and has worked with clients across Sydney to transform heritage buildings into offices, stores, clinics, restaurants, and cafes.