Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Devonport Hospital - A Modernist Gem in Ruin


The former DevonportMaternity Hospital designed in the late 1940's is yet another Tasmanian modernist gem that lay abandoned and vandalised. The above photo makes looks as if the entire building has been bombed with just about every window being smashed. There were plans in 2004 to convert the former hospital into a 65 room apartment, but nothing has materialised to this day. Ironically early this year there were discussions of converting it back to healthcare uses as a private hospital.

The most striking feature of the building is the sweeping arch facade with concrete balconies. The front arch then sweeps off at the rear to form a T shape.

There are so many modernist buildings that remain abandoned and vandalised in Tasmania. It is time that our modernist heritage be given the same recognition and support that many 19th century buildings have gained in Tasmania. If we lose buildings like the former Devenport Hospital, then we lose a connection to our collective history.

To view a photo essay of the Devonport Maternity Hospital click here
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1 comment:

  1. HelsApril 1, 2010 at 3:25 PM

    *sigh*.. what is the matter with your state and local governments? This fantastic building should have been converted in 2004, as planned, if not earlier. What a waste.

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About the project

Join me (Thomas Ryan Photography) on a photographic project documenting Tasmanian 20th Century Modernism from the 1930's to the 1980's. The entire project gallery of 1000+ images and counting can be viewed on my website www.tryanphotos.com under art projects. I have been undertaking this project for over a decade.

My portfolio of commercial and art projects can be seen on my website www.tryanphotos.com and I can be contacted here as well. All photographs are copyright of Thomas Ryan Photography. Unauthorised use is prohibited. Contact me for all enquires

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