White Bay Power Station Wins 2025 Medal for Conservation: A Triumph of Heritage and Innovation

Originally built to supply electricity to Sydney’s tram and rail networks, White Bay Power Station has undergone a remarkable transformation. From its origins powering Sydney’s tram and rail networks, to its transformation into an arts cultural and creative industries space, the Power Station stands as a testament to heritage-led renewal.

Led by the passtionate team at Placemaking NSW working with Design 5 Architects and delivered by FDC Construction, the restoration of White Bay Power Station is a masterclass in adaptive reuse and heritage conservation. Once a dormant industrial site, the power station now stands as a vibrant symbol of creativity, sustainability, and community revitalisation.

The project was praised for its respectful restoration of one of Sydney’s most significant industrial landmarks, preserving its architectural integrity while reimagining its purpose for future generations. Guided by the Burra Charter and a collaborative team effort, the project balanced conservation, safety, and public activation — all while honouring the site's rich history and character.