Mixed-use redevelopment proposed for historical South Australian flour mill

Plans to restore the South Australian town of Strathalbyn's 1849 Angas Flour Mill and transform it into a lively mixed-use venue have been released.

Designed by Topology Studio, the proposal seeks to reactivate the existing buildings at 27 Commercial Road, with a refurbishment of the original structure, as well as the establishment of an addition on Mill Street. Proposed for the site is a mixed-use hub comprising a shop, cafe, gallery, community and event function area, accommodation, a restaurant and an upper-level terrace.

Plans indicate a strong focus for preserving the existing buildings' character, with the red brick addition clearly referencing the sandstone and red brick materiality of the historical facade, and an angled brick clad lift within the extension a nod to the mill's original chimney.

The restoration of the existing mill will require fortification by way of internal and external infrastructures to enable the adaptive reuse of the unreinforced stone buildings, including an internal portal frame that will distribute seismic loads through the main mill building and an external concrete stair, which will serve as a buttress.

The cultural hub features a glazed double-height connection between the existing mill and the new addition, offering views to landscaped gardens. The glazed connection houses a ground level entrance and an elevated passageway directly above, which links the upper building wings. Transparent glazing was selected for the link to ensure the stone facade would remain the focal point.

Original fenestration will be reconstructed where possible, with "distinct" yet "discrete" new insertions to be integrated into the original fabric.

Plans are now on exhibition with comments able to be made until 11 January 2024.