FJM Property’s painstaking restoration of a heritage icon in Perth has won the RLB WA Development of the Year award. The winning project was the FJM-led restoration of Perth’s State Buildings, which transformed the site into a vibrant hospitality and retail precinct.
The RLB WA Development of the Year award is part of the national 2017 Property Council of Australia/ Rider Levett Bucknall Innovation and Excellence Awards program. It is widely-considered to be the top property award in Western Australia.
Often referred to as the Old Treasury buildings, the history of the three, interconnected buildings dates back to 1874. The property has formerly served as the city’s post office, treasury, public offices, the office of the Premier and Cabinet, and a police cell block. Purchased and restored by FJM Property, the State Buildings site is now home to luxury 48-suite hotel, COMO: The Treasury.
Property Council’s executive director in West Australia, Lino Iacomella, said that FJM Property’s $80-million investment and eight-year commitment have restored a heritage icon, changing the streetscape of Perth CBD and creating a new destination for tourists and locals alike.
According to Iacomella, FJM's attention to detail, innovative approach to construction, and commitment to quality have made the restoration a truly standout project.
Iacomella adds that the State Buildings’ reinvention as Perth’s first six-star hotel demonstrates how thoughtful development can breathe new life into tired parts of the city. FJM Property’s vision and commitment have ensured the buildings will continue to be a part of Perth’s history for another century.
The State Buildings project is also competing for the S4B Studio Award for Best Heritage Development at the national awards, which will be held in Sydney on Friday 5 May.
