Restoration Australia comes to Ballarat
Oct 08, 2020
Former Dawson Street Baptist Church to be featured on Restoration Australia
Ballarat’s history-filled former Baptist Church will be showcased on Restoration Australia this month, with season 3 airing on the ABC from Sunday 11 October.
The bluestone landmark, located at 3 Dawson Street Ballarat, was originally designed and built in the 1860s and has since served as a church, and later a nightclub and restaurant, before falling into disrepair. Owner and restorer, Michael Whitehead, seized the opportunity to salvage the building which had lay dormant and become overrun with vermin, engaging local company, Nat Twaits Building, to manage and complete the project.
Mr Whitehead outlined that the design philosophy of the project was to bring the property into the modern era, while retaining the architectural style and unique elements.
“Our focus was to honour the architecture of the building while also creating a liveable, modern residence,” Mr Whitehead said.
“We not only retained and restored the building’s striking roman columns, but have also incorporated the original Baptism pit as a feature of the main living area.”
Project leader and builder, Nat Twaits of Nat Twaits Building has been working on the restoration since 2019.
Nat highlighted their specialisation in intricate builds and renovations as the catalyst for being selected for this project.
“Michael had a clear vision for what he wanted to achieve and we worked closely with him to bring this to life, using our eye for detail and commitment to high-quality to produce an outcome befitting the building’s architectural history,” Nat said
“We’re excited to reveal the finished product with the Ballarat community, and beyond, many who have fond memories of the building over its lifetime.”
Growing construction firm Full time Busy role with variety of carpentry work Nat Twaits Building is a leading and growing domestic custom builder. With a specialisation in high quality new architectural homes, renovations and extensions in Ballarat, our pipeline of work is strong and we look forward to continuing to help our clients realise their dreams and aspirations. To continue to meet the needs of our clients, we are looking to employ carpenters or engage sub-contractors who take pride in their work. Full time work (however will consider flexible working hours for the right candidate) Individuals or crews considered Ongoing work available Dynamic team with a great work environment Immediate start available. Apply by sending your resume through to info@twaits.com.au
After much anticipation, Restoration Australia Season 3 featured Ballarat's iconic Dawson Street Baptist Church on Sunday, November 8. The bluestone landmark, located at 3 Dawson Street Ballarat, was originally designed and built in the 1860s and has since served as a church, and later a nightclub and restaurant, before falling into disrepair. Local Ballarat resident Mike Whitehead bought the property in 2013 and has restored the building to align with the more modern era. To watch the incredible journey documented by Restoration Australia on the ABC, click here . To view our suite of images and to find out more about the history of the property.
