The second phase of Ultimo's Powerhouse Museum's renovation has begun with the obtaining of planning consent. The team driving the renewal will now be able to hold community and stakeholder engagements to finalise the design thanks to concept planning consent.Architectus, Durbach Block Jaggers Architects, Tyrrell Studio, Youssofzay and Hart, Akira Isogawa, Yerrabingin, Discovering Infinity, and Arup were part of the team that won the national design competition last year. The jury announced its choice in December 2022.

“The winning design team developed a visionary scheme that features expanded museum spaces while honouring and connecting the multiple layers of history across the Powerhouse site,” Powerhouse Trust president Peter Collins said.

“Planning consent allows us to move into the next important phase of the project and to get on with the job of reinvigorating one of Australia’s most revered museums, securing its future for many generations to come.

“We will now continue to consult with the community and stakeholders as we refine the final design of the museum and ensure the community provides input into the renewal during the next phase of the planning process.”

To support the museum's ability to offer a programme in applied arts and applied sciences and to curate and present a collection of more than 500,000 objects, the plans call for renovated and expanded exhibition and public areas.

The Wran Building, a 1988 Ultimo Power Station addition, and the original post office will be removed, and its entrance will be moved to face Chinatown and Darling Harbour.

“The design features a new public square that will connect the museum to The Goods Line and surrounding precincts, increasing public open space,” Powerhouse chief executive Lisa Havilah said.

“The Harris Street frontage will be revitalised with creative industry studios to support museum programs and access to the museum’s library and archives.”

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