Heysen Gallery project expected to begin construction mid-November
Contracts have been signed confirming South Australian building company Marshall & Brougham will undertake the construction of the much-anticipated Heysen Gallery, located in Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills. Design and town planning practice Beyond Ink have provided the final designs for the project and will fulfil the role of contract administrator throughout the gallery’s $6.5m construction.
Overall, the Heysen Gallery is a $9m project, funded with a federal grant under the $649m Adelaide City Deal program. Beyond Ink is currently working through the final stage of the Development Approval process and construction is expected to begin in mid-November this year and be completed by July 2025.
“After a lengthy design process working through several versions, we are very happy with the revised Beyond Ink design and it’s very satisfying to know it is finally going to be built.” – Chair for the Hans Heysen Foundation, James Sexton
Previous designs for an art gallery at The Cedars in Hahndorf, South Australia, have been refined by Beyond Ink to deliver a multipurpose building that will house and protect the artistic works of Hans and Nora Heysen.
“The Cedars and their collection of artworks is of great cultural and historical significance: we are proud to be able to contribute to this important new space that will provide for the stewardship of the Heysen legacy for future generations”. – Beyond Ink Principal John Ashcroft
Reflecting on previous versions of the project, Beyond Ink evolved the design to balance the operational needs of a modern gallery with the requirements of the venue’s largely volunteer staff. Reducing the building’s size has enabled a more manageable operating footprint for the gallery, whilst responding to the current financial realities of the construction environment.
“The gallery will foster an immersive exploration of both the artistic oeuvre of Hans and Nora Heysen, and the unique scenic beauty of The Cedars. Derived from the natural environment, the earthy tones and rich timber elements of the design mirror the majestic gum trees that served as a prominent feature in Hans Heysen’s work. The design is bold, yet firmly ingrained in the essence of the Adelaide Hills and the values of the Heysen family”. – Senior Designer Scott Robinson
The foundation is thrilled to take this next important step forward, and we look forward to the completion of the gallery with the continuing valued assistance of Beyond Ink.” – James Sexton