New Benaki Museum in Melbourne set to be first of its kind outside of Greece

·

A $244 million blueprint to revamp the former Land Titles Office has been proposed to the state government.

As part of the plan, developers have teamed with The Hellenic Museum to construct a new Greek museum, making Melbourne the first city to house a permanent Benaki Museum outside of Greece.

Also part of the plans are an international exhibition space and 29-storey commercial tower, being built above one of Melbourne’s oldest buildings.

But the plans will first have to win the support of the government and Heritage Victoria. The building is listed on the state register for its architectural and historic significance.

This commercial tower would sit high above the new museum. Photo: Daily Telegraph

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, ISPT chief executive Daryl Browning said the project would revitalise the precinct and restore heritage appeal.

“We believe it’s a really good outcome for the community,’ he said.

Mr Browning said the heritage buildings would house the Hellenic and Benaki museums and be open to the public for the first time.

“For most Melburnians, they’ve never seen inside those buildings because when they held the titles they were very valuable and secure documents,’’ he said.

“So Joe Public would never have seen the titles holding area and we thought that precinct would be revitalised by both the tower and the concept that was sympathetic to the heritage of the old building, but open it up so that Melbourne can experience it brought back to its grandeur.’’

Development of the commercial tower would foot the bill and The Hellenic Museum would be offered a rent-free lease for 50 years.

The former Land Titles Office is one of only two surviving 19th century buildings that extend along a complete Melbourne city block, along with the Supreme Court.

A report to government said the importance of the site to Victoria “requires a particularly creative adaptive reuse solution … that reflects the ever-changing, vibrant and lively contemporary city of Melbourne whilst simultaneously remaining respectful and sympathetic to its heritage value,’’ it said.

If approved, construction is likely commence next year and take up to three years to complete.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Theodoros Angelinos to captain Team Greece at Australia’s United Cup

The Greek team is expected to compete with a major change on the bench at the United Cup, to take place in Australia from Dec 27 to Jan 5.

Greek Health Minister says COVID passes for travellers to be ‘suspended’ from May 1

Greece's Health Minister, Thanos Plevris, has said COVID-19 vaccination and recovery certificates would not longer be required as of May 1.

Jenny Mikakos appointed new Chair of Victoria’s LanguageLoop

The Victorian Interpreting and Translation Services (VITS) LanguageLoop Board has welcomed the Honourable Jenny Mikakos as its new Chair.