Restoration of the historic Dawn Fraser Baths, Australia's oldest tidal pool, featuring a reconstructed southern pavilion elevated for flood resilience, enhanced amenities, and recognition with the NSW Master Builders Association Award for Restoration/Adaptive Re-Use.
Client: Inner West Council
Awards: NSW Master Builders Association Award for Restoration/Adaptive Re-Use of a Historical Building
The Dawn Fraser Swimming Pool is the nation’s oldest post-1788 tidal pool. Construction began in 1882 with adjustments continuing until the present; the pool’s surrounding timber structure is of great historic significance. Changes in the tides and sea levels of Sydney Harbour led to flooding, leaving the pool in a dilapidated state. More flooding is expected so Council chose to reconstruct the southern pavilion one metre above the original boardwalk. Lifting the structure required recording, careful dismantling, and assessment of the timbers so they could be meticulously reconstructed from new and salvaged timber. A new entrance, changing rooms, and lighting now improve the amenity of the pool.
Photography: Arthur Vay
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