Day St, Radiance Apartments, Darling Harbour
Artefact worked to unearth Sydney's past beneath a landmark new development.
The project
Location: 188 Day St, Darling Harbour on Gadigal Country
The Artefact team delivered a comprehensive archaeological salvage program for the award-wining Radiance residential and retail development at Darling Harbour. The project involved managing the excavation of Aboriginal and historical remains to enable construction while preserving the site's significant cultural heritage.
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Loftex
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Archaeological salvage program
Heritage Interpretation Plan
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Urban Design Award
International Architecture Awards
Heritage solution
Loftex engaged Artefact to manage archaeological resources across the site under the guidance of Artefact’s Excavation Directors. Salvage excavations under a Section 140 excavation permit uncovered the remains of the engine house and chimney of the 1830s Thomas Barker Mill complex.
Preparatory works included controlled demolition of a 1920s warehouse and basement car park accompanied by archaeological monitoring, as it was possible that construction might uncover State significant archaeological remains associated with the early colony, as well as evidence of Aboriginal objects.
Working closely with Loftex, the builder and the demolishers, Artefact completed all archaeological work within the project timeframe. Construction then proceeded on track.
As recommended by Artefact’s Heritage Interpretation Plan, recovered artefacts were integrated into interior and exterior displays to inform passers-by. These placemaking installations both acknowledge the past and provide an engaging educational experience for residents and visitors.
The site’s industrial heritage was acknowledged in the architectural form and materials of the Radiance development. Integration of interpretive historical fabric added character and enhanced value to the modern design which won an Urban Design Award and an International Architecture Award.
“It’s always great when developers celebrate the history of a site by creating interpretative signage and displays in the completed building. Stepping inside Radiance visitors can learn about the past inhabitants of the site as well as the actual artefacts found during excavation.”