HERITAGE architect H+H Architects have been appointed to design the $8.3 million Albany historic pilot cottages precinct.
They were awarded the $0.74 million contract after a competitive tender process to drive the project forward from concept to detailed design.
The architectural firm has been involved in a variety of heritage projects throughout Western Australia, including several in Albany such as the Stirling Terrace Precinct refurbishment, adapting the old Headmaster’s House and Albany State School buildings for re-use, and ongoing heritage consultancy at Camp Quaranup.
Early concepts for the Albany Pilot Station precinct launched alongside $8.3 million of funding in May include an interpretive centre, small café, playground and parking, and open space.
Southern Ports will work with H+H Architects to develop the design, which is expected to be finalised in late 2025.
The pilot cottage precinct overlooks the channel connecting King George Sound to Princess Royal Harbour and historically played an important role in the Port of Albany’s operations as a homebase for its marine pilots and crews as well as their families.
Southern Ports CEO Keith Wilks said that since the project was announced earlier this year there had been a high level of community interest.
The Port of Albany is WA’s first and oldest port.
“In addition to the work we’re doing to transform the buildings and infrastructure, we’re also undertaking a wider project to learn more about the site’s history through surveys, partnerships with Notre Dame to undertake archaeological research and through anecdotes passed on by individuals who have lived in the precinct,” Mr Wilks said.
In a media release, Albany MLA Rebecca Stephens said that when restored the pilot cottages will offer a rare insight to what it was like to live and work in these buildings between 1853 to 1936.
“Albany has such a rich maritime history, and this restoration will become another community asset to showcase that proud history.”
