Clouston Associates

Conservatorium of Music - Sydney NSW

Originally constructed as the stables for Government House by renowned colonial Architect, Sir Francis Greenway, this building was conceived as a picturesque element within an extensive landscape setting. The redevelopment of the Conservatorium and Conservatorium of Music High school and the garden terraces as described by then NSW Government Architect Chris Johnson as creating “… a seamless connection with the Royal Botanic Gardens…a statement that the future is in fact about integrating the built and natural systems.” This connection has restored the intended relationship between the Greenway stables and the Government House Gardens.

The project was technically challenging given the extensive roof top slab planting, and botanic garden themes and planting requirements. Specially developed light weight soil mixes were produced in collaboration between the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney, soils scientists and the topsoil manufacturer.