Old Parliament House
Old Parliament House is a historic building located in the heart of Canberra, the capital city of Australia. Completed in 1927, the building was originally designed to serve as the home of the Australian federal government, before the construction of the new Parliament House in the 1980s. Today, Old Parliament House is used as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the country’s political history and heritage.
Historical Background & Significance
The idea of a dedicated parliament building for Australia dates back to the early 20th century, when the country was still a part of the British Empire. In 1901, the Australian Commonwealth Parliament was established, and plans were made to construct a suitable home for it. After much debate and discussion, it was decided that the new building would be located in Canberra, which had been selected as the site for the new national capital. Construction of Old Parliament House began in 1922 and was completed five years later, at a cost of over £600,000.
Initial Planning & Budget
The original plans for Old Parliament House were drawn up by the government architect, John Smith Murdoch. Murdoch envisioned a grand, imposing structure that would reflect Australia’s status as a young and growing nation. The building was to be constructed in the neoclassical style, with a central dome flanked by two wings. The estimated cost of the project was around £400,000, but this figure soon proved to be unrealistic. As the construction progressed, the budget was revised several times, and additional funding had to be allocated to cover unforeseen expenses.
Architectural Design & Features
Old Parliament House is a remarkable example of neoclassical architecture, characterized by its symmetry, proportion, and grandeur. The building is constructed of red brick and reinforced concrete, with a white marble facade. The central dome is the most striking feature of the building, rising to a height of 84 feet above the ground. The interior of the building is equally impressive, with ornate plasterwork, marble columns, and oak paneling throughout.
Construction & Materials Used
The construction of Old Parliament House was a massive undertaking, involving thousands of workers and millions of bricks. The building was constructed using reinforced concrete, a cutting-edge material at the time. The facade was covered in white marble imported from Italy, while the floors and walls were made of Australian woods such as jarrah and Queensland maple. The building was equipped with state-of-the-art technology for the time, including electric lighting, telephones, and a pneumatic mail system.
Labor & Workforce Involved
The construction of Old Parliament House was a major source of employment for the people of Canberra and the surrounding region. Thousands of workers were employed on the project, including skilled tradespeople, laborers, and engineers. Many of these workers were immigrants who had come to Australia in search of work. The project was also a major boost to the local economy, as suppliers and service providers benefited from the increased activity.
Delays & Other Challenges
The construction of Old Parliament House was not without its challenges. The project suffered numerous delays due to factors such as bad weather, labor disputes, and design changes. In addition, the cost of materials and labor increased significantly during the course of the project, putting pressure on the budget. However, despite these setbacks, the project was completed on time and within the revised budget.
Final Cost of the Project
The final cost of constructing Old Parliament House was £618,000, making it one of the most expensive buildings ever constructed in Australia at the time. The cost overruns were due to a variety of factors, including unforeseen expenses, design changes, and inflation. However, despite the high cost, the building was considered a worthy investment by the government, as it symbolized Australia’s growing political maturity and independence.
Comparison with Contemporary Buildings
When Old Parliament House was constructed, it was one of the largest and most impressive buildings in Australia. However, today it is dwarfed by the much larger and more modern Parliament House, which was completed in 1988. Despite this, Old Parliament House remains a beloved and iconic building, with a timeless appeal that transcends its age and size.
Maintenance & Restoration Efforts
Over the years, Old Parliament House has undergone numerous renovations and restorations to preserve its architectural and historical significance. In the 1990s, the building was extensively refurbished, with new exhibition spaces, cafes, and other amenities added to enhance its appeal as a cultural center. Today, the building is maintained by the National Capital Authority, which oversees its upkeep and ensures that it remains a vital part of Australia’s political heritage.
Current Status & Use of the Building
Old Parliament House is now used as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the political history and heritage of Australia. The building contains a range of exhibitions and displays, as well as a library, cafe, and gift shop. Visitors can explore the building’s many rooms and galleries, learn about Australia’s political history, and experience the grandeur and beauty of one of Australia’s most iconic buildings.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Old Parliament House
Old Parliament House is a testament to Australia’s political history and heritage, as well as to its architectural and engineering prowess. Despite the challenges and setbacks faced during its construction, the building remains an enduring symbol of Australia’s growth and development as a nation. Today, it serves as a reminder of the country’s rich history and a source of inspiration for future generations.
