Forrester Gallery Extension: Timeless Elegance with Oamaru Stone

The Forrester Gallery, located on Thames Street in Oamaru, is a stunning example of heritage architecture. With its striking Neo-Classical façade, this Category 1 Heritage building has long been a local icon, admired by locals and tourists alike. Originally built in 1884 as the Bank of New South Wales, the building is now home to an impressive art collection and a vibrant exhibition programme showcasing works by local artists, both old and new.

More recent exhibitions have included “Legendary Lollies: 75 Years of Crafting Confectionery in Oamaru”, “Like the Turf”-which explores a slice of Pākehā history through the lens of skilled immigrants from southern England-and the ironically named “Seriously Valuable Art”, an exhibition that firmly dismisses the notion that important art must always be expensive.

Dustin and the team at Oamaru Stone are very excited to announce that we will be collaborating on Stage 2 of the Forrester Gallery Project, which will see the addition of a three-storey extension on the back of the existing building, enhancing its functionality and future-proofing its cultural contribution to the community. Beginning in the basement, the building extension will provide much-needed storage space for the gallery’s growing art collection, alongside additional exhibition areas. The new addition will be of a similar size to the current structure, and will blend seamlessly with the original design.

We take great pride in knowing our limestone is still chosen for projects like this—more than 120 years after the gallery’s foundations were first laid. It speaks volumes about the timeless elegance of limestone, and its unique ability to seamlessly blend old and new, in order to produce stylish and classical exteriors that will stand the test of time. Whether it’s enhancing historical landmarks or building something entirely new, Oamaru Stone remains the material of choice for creating enduring, stylish exteriors.

If you’re inspired by the timeless beauty of Oamaru Stone, get in touch with us to discuss your next project. Whether you’re restoring a heritage treasure or planning a modern masterpiece, our team is here to help you bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more!