Enhancing Safety and Compliance
The Enmore Theatre is one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks. For generations, this beloved theatre has been the stage for unforgettable live performances. As a medium-sized venue, known for its intimate atmosphere and electric energy, the Enmore has been a cultural landmark for decades, now undergoing a modern transformation focused on enhancing safety and compliance.
Originally built in 1908 as a Photo Play theatre, where patrons could watch recorded theatrical performances for just a few pennies, the Enmore has evolved with the times while preserving its rich history. Despite numerous renovations, its striking Interwar Art Deco style has remained intact since 1937, protected by local heritage listings. For over a century, the Enmore has repeatedly evolved to meet modern demands while preserving its rich heritage. Now the challenge continues with how to balance its historic charm with modern safety, accessibility, and compliance requirements of the 21st Century.
The Challenge
With the Enmore undergoing comprehensive renovations, Dohrmann Consulting was engaged by Century Ventures to provide expert guidance on critical non-compliance issues, enhancing safety and compliance throughout the venue. Our role was to ensure the theatre’s upgrades aligned with human movement, safe access, evacuation protocols, and fall risk mitigation, allowing the venue to continue delivering iconic performances while meeting today’s stringent building standards.
We were engaged to address three key areas:
- Performance solutions for non-compliant architectural elements, including stairs, doorways, handrails, balustrades, accessways, and disability access.
- Performance solutions for non-compliant removable seating, assessing whether an acceptable design solution could be implemented.
- Preparation of an Access and Evacuation Policy, ensuring the theatre meets modern safety and accessibility standards.
Our Approach
The National Construction Code (NCC) mandates that any performance solutions begin with a Performance-Based Design Brief (PBDB). This document, developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, clearly defines the compliance objectives, outlines how they will be achieved, and establishes the justification and validation process. To develop effective, evidence-based solutions, our team: Reviewed detailed architectural drawings and floor plans. Conducted on-site assessments, measuring key access points, entry/exit routes, and evaluating audience movement patterns. Analysed current compliance requirements and industry best practices. Developed design proposals that balanced safety, function, and heritage considerations. By identifying all critical compliance activities and ensuring alignment with NCC performance standards, we provided Century Ventures with a clear, actionable roadmap for the Enmore’s renovations.
The Outcome
Through detailed reports, performance solutions, and an access and evacuation policy, our work confirmed that the Enmore Theatre’s upgrades met all necessary NCC performance requirements. This ensured the venue could continue operating as a safe, compliant, and accessible space—without compromising its historic character. Thanks to this project, the Enmore Theatre is now set to host countless more legendary performances, bringing music, culture, and entertainment to Sydney for generations to come.
