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Master Plan Stage 1

Major Improvements and Upgrades

This year, David Roche Gallery embarks on an exciting redevelopment in collaboration with architecture and interior design practice Design by WBL and design and construction business Aube Projects, to create an enhanced experience for all visitors. By contributing, you play a vital role in supporting David Roche Gallery achieve its aspirations of becoming a centre of excellence and leader in decorative arts in Australia. Donations can be made at any time and all donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.

What’s coming

David Roche Gallery is undergoing a carefully considered redevelopment to improve visitor amenities, enhance accessibility, and create new spaces that better support exhibitions, programs and events. This project marks an important step forward for the Gallery and its role in South Australia’s cultural landscape, creating an immersive experience for all who visit. Stage 1 works are already underway, and we are excited to bring you along on the journey. This phase of the redevelopment includes:

Shop, foyer and Roman room refit

New Café & Courtyard Garden

Heritage works to 1880s Maisonette

New research Library & meeting room

New Storage Space, Loading Dock & Workshop

Courtyard & Cafe

“The opportunity to create enhanced visitor experiences as well as significant operational improvements is rare these days. It reflects the maturity of DRG and its growing position in the cultural landscape of South Australia of which I’m proud. Grabbing a barista coffee from the café just outside your office is also a great bonus!”  –Robert Reason, DRG Director.

Loading Dock, Storage, Workshop

Design by WBL has had a long relationship with the Roche Gallery from the very beginning, and being part of the expansion and ongoing development of the gallery is something we have considerable investment in. “What excites us about this stage of the gallery’s development is how it brings together and expands on the initial remit of the Foundation to make a visit to the gallery a more fulsome and enveloping experience. Fermoy House and The Roche Gallery contain a unique collection of global relevance and the opportunity to expand on the impact and association of the original collection to allow better accommodation of travelling exhibitions is an exciting vision to be part of.” – David Burton, Director Design by WBL

Why it matters

The redevelopment supports DRG’s commitment to advancing the arts in South Australia and contributing collaboratively to Adelaide’s standing as a vibrant centre for the arts. It honours the significance of the collection and David Roche’s enduring legacy.

How it’s taking shape

The redevelopment is being delivered in collaboration with highly skilled architecture and interior design practice Design by WBL and design and construction business Aube Projects. Guided by a shared vision, the project places people and South Australian culture at its core, ensuring thoughtful, design-led changes that enhance both function and experience.

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Follow the journey