With the approval of the Fremantle Prison Trust Advisory Committee, the Building Management Authority’s Project Services Directorate worked closely with Department of Training’s South Metropolitan college of TAFE’s Art and Design Department to adapt the workshops. Design work began in June 1992 following the decommissioning of the former maximum security prison in December 1991. The final proposal aimed to accommodate three large drawing studios, design and technical facilities. The building work was carried out by BMA Construction Operations and completed in August 1993.
Alterations to the original building were limited to providing openings between each studio, and into the former Rifle Range. This enables autonomous access from the Prison Terrace for the staff and students.
The new construction is visibly distinct from the original building fabric and is in accordance with current conservation practice and the Fremantle Prison Conservation Policy. Visitors to the site can experience these wonderful studios spaces with students at work, from viewing points located at the former entrances off the parade ground.
The completion of the studios is the first part of a three stage development of the art facility within the Fremantle Prison.
(Currently Houses: WA School of Art, Design and Media - TAFE)
Technical Diagrams
These diagrams can be viewed with the free 'Volo View' viewer, which is available - and supported - from the Autodesk website. Please direct any questions about this software to the program's authors.
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© Fremantle Prison 2002
