Upgrade of heritage stairs without compromising character
Written by Zoe Phelan, Access Consultant at Architecture & Access
Architecture & Access have worked closely with Moloney Architects to redevelop the heritage stair in the Loreto College Ballarat administration building, originally built in 1869. An access audit was undertaken before the works began to understand the heritage significance of the building, including the stair, and to identify the access barriers associated with it.
Upgrading stairs within a heritage building requires a careful balance between accessibility and conservation.
For this reason, enhancements to this stair were made as overlays to the heritage stair to not disturb the original structure, with compliant tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) and stair nosings then integrated into the overlaid surface.
A benefit of this approach was that the overlaid timber ‘runner’could be squared off, removing the lip from the original tread which extended past the riser, which was a trip hazard.
One of the main features that required upgrading was the stair handrail. The existing structure only had one, handrail which was wide, and challenging to grasp.
As part of the upgrade works, two new handrails were introduced on either side of the stair. One handrail was able to achieve full compliance, with the second handrail being addressed via a Performance Solution so that it could follow the curvature of the existing structure at the base of the stair, rather than extending horizontally for 300mm.
As a result, both new handrails can maintain a consistent, compliant height throughout the stair, while providing 270 degrees of clearance around each handrail and ensuring a continuous handhold. The handrail, which follows the existing geometry of the stair reinforces the original character of the stair structure.
Accessibility should not be treated as a competing priority with heritage conservation.
Thoughtful adaptation, such as this stair, can extend the functional life of a building while making it safer and more inclusive.
The result should be a stair, building, or structure where the history remains evident, with accessibility requirements seamlessly incorporated.
The original form tells the story of the building, and carefully designed new elements allow that story to continue.
Image 1. (feature): New handrails improve safety, comfort and accessibility while complementing the original stair design.
Image 2: New stair nosings and tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) were carefully integrated while preserving the original heritage fabric.
Image 3: The overlay treatment creates a safer stair edge while respecting the original structure.
Image photographer credit: Tara C Moore
