Upper left:
Australia became self-sufficient through manufacturing during the late 1800s, no longer relying completely on ship deliveries for goods. The Johnstone and Wilmot building still has the original mill, used for manufacturing grains, in the building’s attic.
Lower left:
During the refurbishment of the building, a small attic space above the Tin Room was recarpeted. A pattern which is sympathetic to the historic nature of the building was chosen. This space is currently not open to the public and is used by staff.
Upper right:
It was important for dAda mUse to retain the Tin Room in the warehouse section of the building, which has been converted into the art museum. Tin is a silvery-white metal that is airtight. It has been used for creating barriers through history, including the use of containers to keep food items fresher. The Tin Room in the Johnstone and Wilmot building was created to store high quality and expensive goods for sale. The metal walls, ceiling, and floor created a cooler environment and protected items from rat or mice infestation. Johnstone and Wilmot stored goods including tobacco, chocolate, and high-end grain products in the room.
Lower right:
The original stone foundations of the building are still visible in the basement area of the building. The design used cut stones to form a solid footing. Limestone and sandstone were readily used in 1800s construction, with the use of lime-based mortar to adhere the stones together and create a seal. Historic stone walls often appear to look wet, but they are structurally stable and provide a strong foundation for buildings.
Acknowledgement: Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery History Department for images and information about the building.