Restoration works at Customs House

Essential roof restoration works will be carried out at Brisbane’s Customs House to repair natural wear and tear.

Starting in July 2024, the works are expected to take about 3 months.

Recognising the building’s important history, the works will be overseen by specialist heritage architects and have been approved by the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.

Customs House will remain open and every effort will be made to minimise disruption.

About the works

As part of this work, the roof will be replaced with improvements to rainwater systems.

The aged, green copper dome will also be replaced in sections with a new replica copper dome installed. Over time, the copper will change colour as it is exposed to the elements and develops a green ‘patina’.

The original ornaments on the copper dome will be removed, cleaned and reinstalled. The lantern timber windows will be restored and new flag poles installed.

Minimising impacts

The project will be sequenced to minimise disruption to customers, neighbours and patrons as much as possible. 

Works will be carried out between 6:30am to 6:00pm from Monday to Friday, with some Saturday and night works as required. Works will not be carried out during significant events.

Some scaffolding is required on the southwest side of the building and around the copper dome.

Conserving the building’s history

Customs House was completed in 1889 and is the second of its kind at this location.

The University is committed to preserving the heritage of this iconic building and will ensure the works are carried out to the highest standards.

UQ has contracted architects, Architectus Conrad Gargett to oversee the project, drawing on their wealth of experience with heritage buildings.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation will be kept updated throughout the project.

Restoration timeline

Internal Works

Restoration and painting of the ceilings and walls around the main staircase and below the lantern at Customs House started in late May 2024, and works are expected to be completed by the end of June 2024.

External Works

Restoration of the roof and copper dome at Customs House started on in early June 2024 and the works are expected to be completed by the end of October 2024.   (Timelines are subject to weather or latent conditions).

Find Out More

For enquiries regarding upcoming wedding or event bookings at Customs House, please contact [email protected] or call 3365 8999.

For general enquiries about restoration works at Customs House, please contact the project team at The University of Queensland, [email protected].