Lismore City Hall

Lismore City Hall is a cultural institution at the heart of the Northern Rivers and is recognised as the premier venue for performing arts in the region. Established in 1965, this two-storey, standalone public building was significantly affected by the 2022 Lismore floods.

Bennett Constructions engaged BKA Architecture to design and document the remedial, restoration, and upgrade works for Lismore City Hall, which is expected to be completed in early 2026. The project has been allocated $12 million in funding from the New South Wales and Federal governments and the Lismore City Council.

BKA has designed and documented the restoration of the civic building, as its 1960s features form a significant part of the town’s fabric and history. Due to its environmental susceptibility, substantial upgrades have been planned to enhance the hall’s flood resilience and meet contemporary standards. This includes elevating the building services above flood zone levels and selecting flood-resilient materials that contribute to an industrial aesthetic on the ground floor. While on the upper floor, the Hall will be rejuvenated through stylish contemporary finishes and accent lighting.

The revitalisation work also encompasses internal spatial reorganisation and functional upgrades to accommodate increased capacity, which includes the installation of new amenities and a commercial kitchen at this stage of the works. This will enhance the venue’s catering services, enabling it to host a variety of events.