United Tannery: From Boot Factory to Architectural Studio
+ Add to ItineraryDescription
The United Tannery is a historic brick industrial building originally constructed as a boot-making factory, reflecting Melbourne’s manufacturing past and the craft traditions that once defined the area.
Characterised by its robust masonry structure, generous volumes and utilitarian detailing, the building was designed for making, a quality that continues to inform its use today.
The building has since been carefully adapted by architect Jerry Wolveridge and is now home to Wolveridge Architects. Rather than erasing its industrial character, the transformation retains and reveals the original fabric of the building, allowing old and new elements to sit alongside one another. The result is a studio environment that acknowledges the building’s history while supporting contemporary architectural practice.
Today, United Tannery operates as a working architectural studio, Wolveridge Architects. Visitors are invited to explore the space and learn about the building’s evolution from industrial use to creative workplace. The event will also provide insight into the studio’s approach to architecture, material selection and adaptive reuse, highlighting how a building shaped by making continues to support design, collaboration and craft.
What's On
Come visit the United Tannery Studio and explore the building as a working architectural practice.
Pop in to discover the studio, or join a guided tour for insight into the building’s evolution and its current use. Members of the Wolveridge Architects team will be present for you to ask questions and learn more about the building; the studio's approach to materials, projects and adaptive reuse; and the creative process.
Children's Activities
Families are welcome
Images: (1-2) United Tannery/Wolveridge Architects 2025. Photos: Jack Carlin. (3-4) United Tannery/Wolveridge Architects 2012. Photos: courtesy Wolveridge Architects.







