Preserving History with Smart Ventilation For Eveleigh Workshops

A Living Piece of Australia’s Industrial Heritage

Steeped in history and innovation, the Eveleigh Locomotive Workshops stand as a testament to Australia’s industrial and railway heritage. Established in 1887 under the direction of John Whitton, Chief Engineer of NSW Railways, the workshops were once the beating heart of steam locomotive manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance.

For over a century, these workshops played a pivotal role in shaping New South Wales’ railway network, supporting the rapid expansion of transportation and industry. Thousands of workers contributed to the site’s legacy, crafting locomotives that powered the state’s growth.

Today, Eveleigh remains one of Australia’s most significant heritage-listed sites, representing not just a bygone era of engineering excellence but also a lasting piece of national history.

Breathing New Life Into a Heritage Landmark

As part of an ambitious revitalisation effort, the Eveleigh Locomotive Workshops required essential upgrades to meet modern standards of air quality and thermal comfort. However, enhancing the building’s ventilation presented a significant challenge:

1. Preserving Architectural Integrity: Any new ventilation system had to be seamlessly integrated without altering or compromising the building’s original heritage features.
2. Enhancing Airflow Naturally: The solution needed to provide effective, energy-efficient ventilation without relying on mechanical systems that could disrupt the historical aesthetic.
3. Meeting Compliance & Safety Standards: The site’s heritage status meant strict compliance with fire safety and environmental regulations, requiring a tailored approach.

Achieving these objectives demanded an innovative solution, one that balanced engineering performance with historical preservation.

Smart Ventilation, Seamlessly Integrated

To address these challenges, Airocle designed a bespoke natural ventilation system that enhances airflow while honouring the building’s heritage.

The solution included:

1. Z Series Wall-Mounted Louvres – A Subtle Yet Powerful Addition

Airocle installed the Z Series wall-mounted louvres, engineered for superior aerodynamic performance. These louvres provide:

• Increased Airflow Efficiency – Maximising natural ventilation without requiring mechanical assistance.
• Fire Certification Compliance – Fully rated for fire safety, ensuring peace of mind without compromising the building’s structure.
• Minimal Visual Impact – Designed to blend seamlessly into the existing façade, maintaining the workshops’ authentic look.

2. 6 Series Stationary Roof Vents – A Timeless Design for a Historic Space

To further enhance air circulation, Airocle implemented the 6 Series stationary roof vents, chosen for their classic round heritage design. These vents provide:

• Natural Thermal Regulation – Facilitating hot air extraction to maintain a comfortable indoor climate.
• Architectural Harmony – Carefully crafted to match the original design aesthetic, ensuring the building’s character remains intact.
• Long-Lasting Durability – Built to withstand Australia’s climate, ensuring longevity with minimal maintenance.

A Heritage Icon, Future-Proofed

Through Airocle thoughtful engineering, the Eveleigh Locomotive Workshops now benefit from enhanced air circulation and thermal comfort, all without disrupting their historical authenticity.

The integration of the Z Series and 6 Series ventilation solutions demonstrates how modern technology can harmonise with heritage architecture, preserving cultural significance while meeting contemporary needs.

This project is a prime example of the Airocle commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable ventilation solutions that respect and protect Australia’s rich architectural history.

By blending smart engineering with heritage conservation, Eveleigh stands as proof that progress and preservation can go hand in hand.