Tallangatta Shopfront Revitalisation Program

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Jaitmatang Country

Community Masterplanning

Continuing 2020

 

In 2019 we were engaged by Towong Shire Council to facilitate the revitalisation of over 30 privately owned shopfronts in the Township of Tallangatta. As the project facilitator our involvement wasn't necessarily to 'design’ in a literal sense, but to help each owner deliver improvements that would highlight and celebrate the unique 1950's architecture. Tallangatta is listed by the National Trust with ‘notable town status’ as it is the most intact of relocated 1950’s communities in Australia.

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Whilst in essence it may sound like a simple undertaking, the role was all-embracing; crucial was forming positive partnerships with the owners, to inspire and guide them on how best to enhance the existing building rather than conceal them.

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When we arrived in town there was an emerging trend of paint all the buildings grey / black. When we met with owners, many of them said they just want to paint their building grey because they hated the shopfront and liked how 'the grey paint job on the one down the road hid everything.'

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Engaging in conversations about the era of the buildings, we helped the community to understand the context of mid-century Australian design, post war construction and how following the grey trend would conceal the unique character of their town rather than celebrate it.

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From new 1950’s inspired signage, verandah repairs and colourful painted facades, the overall outcome is comprised of small alterations and insertions on each shopfront that creates a collective whole.

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“Regional Design Service demonstrated an excellent understanding of what Council was trying to achieve throughout the project.  Their strong understanding of period styling and architecture provided stakeholders with sound advice and ensured the project reached Council’s vision.  Phillip’s approachable nature was a particularly strong asset to the project which involved a high level of community engagement.”

 

Kerissa Heritage

Economic Development Tourism Officer – Towong Shire

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Project Collaborators

 

Studio Scerri – Good Golly Miss Molly identity

KW Roofing – veranda roof repairs

True Style Painting – veranda post and lintel restoration / painting, shopfront painting

KB Painting – Shopfront painting

Signs by Knight – Signage and highlight window Tinting

Kirrily Anderson – Murals

Murray Arts - Public Art Consultancy

Photography - Georgie James and Regional Design Service