With the story of the timber industry at the heart of almost every resident in the South-West of WA the community had high expectations for the reimagining of the significant Marshall Clifton designed State Timber Museum.

Considered for demolition after closing in 2014 the striking series of four interconnecting timber-clad circular buildings housed a dated exhibition and needed attention.

Working closely with the community to capture the stories and emotions of the industry accurately, the collaborative inter-disciplinary team led by SHA refurbished and transformed this beautiful, little building into a contemporary interpretative experience, exhibition and reflective memorial for local and international visitors of all ages.

Shire President Paul Omodei at the 2018 opening: “The building refurbishment celebrates the form and features of this significant and individual building. The new exhibition takes the old museum one step further and explores the history, technology and people of Western Australia’s first major industry.”

Photography: Jody D'Arcy