Carclew Tower

Built in 1897 to the design of Architect John Quinton Bruce, heritage listed ‘Carclew’ on Montefiore Hill in North Adelaide is well known for its circular corner tower with its distinctive conical lead clad roof. In 2006 the roof was found to be at risk of collapse and a threat to the significance of the building and the safety of the public.

Immediate works were undertaken to the tower and involved extensive research of the use of lead before documentation of work. This involved extensive repairs to the underlying timber structure, installation of new lead carefully fabricated to match the original design, window repairs and reconstructions of various other elements.

The works have helped to reinforce the appreciation of Carclew’s architectural qualities and the now rarely seen trade skills used in its construction, whilst ensuring the conservation of its fabric and its cultural significance for