St James’ Church, one of Sydney’s oldest Anglican churches, was designed by Francis Greenway and consecrated in 1824. Over the years, it has undergone various alterations, notably by John Verge in 1834 and Varney Parkes in 1894.

In 2016, the Trustees of St James’ Church initiated plans to replace the aging 1901 pipe organ, which had reached the end of its functional life.

Design 5 – Architects were engaged by the Trustees of St James’ Church in 2018 to provide full architectural, contract administration, and heritage conservation services. The new organ was designed and constructed by Dobson Pipe Organ Builders (Iowa, USA), with support from Sydney-based firm Peter Jewkes Pipe Organ Builders. Furthermore, the base building works were completed by Sydney builders AJ Bristow and Sons. Alex Been Consulting Engineers oversaw structural works.

To support the organ installation, Design 5 was tasked with coordinating and advising on changes to the existing built fabric. This included strengthening the existing organ mezzanines to support the weight of the new organ; creating new openings from the chancel to the adjacent server’s vestries for the organ blowers;  and constructing new joinery for the blowers, console platform, and mezzanine ceilings. The joinery was made from Queensland Maple and finished with shellac and wax. Significant electrical and lighting works were also coordinated throughout.

In addition to these changes, the project also sought to resolve acoustic challenges. Following advice from Kirkegaard acousticians, it was identified that the existing pressed metal ceiling rattled under high frequencies. Therefore, after several tests, the ceiling was carefully pinned back to the original timber boarding above. Likewise, within the roof space, the existing queen post truss roof and ceiling joists were strengthened to support a layer of FC sheeting and 18mm vinyl sheet called Wavebar. This backloading stopped base notes leaving the space. Overall, these acoustic interventions significantly improved the sound quality within the church.

In July 2024, the organ was completed and consecrated during the St James’ Church Organ Festival. Design 5 – Architects is proud to have contributed to this significant project and passes thanks to everyone involved.