Upstairs, inside of the building, two people walking pass each other as one goes down the stairs, the other walks up. There is white painted brick walls and hardwood floors with metal panels that are in harmony.
An architect in the upstairs at the studio, walking pass the library. The whit painted brick walls, hardwood floors and wooden ceiling are visible with an industrial feel. There are two artworks on the wall which are photographs of landcapes in Mornington, Peninsula.
An exterior shot of the United Tannery, which is a two-storey red brick building. It is early in the morning before the sunrise. There is the blue tint in the sky which is in contrast with the warm lights coming through the brick building.
Upstairs, inside of the building, There is white painted brick walls and hardwood floors with metal panels diving the shot in two.
The downstairs of the building. This is a waiting area that is in the centre of the room. There is a big bright mustard yellow couch in the background. At the front, there is a big round stainless steel table and a bright blue curved bench seat that matches perfectly with the stainless-steel table. There are also three wooden stools on the other side of the table that are made out of tree stumps.

United Tannery: From Boot Factory to Architectural Studio

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Architect/Designer: Wolveridge Architects

Description

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.

Important Details

Tour/event summary information

Friday 24 July + Saturday 25 July
Open access 10am - 12pm & 1.30-3.30pm

Self-guided tours encouraged. Guided tours running as required.

Bookings

No bookings required. Tour group capacity is limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Meeting Point

Our office is located at 121 Rokeby Street, however, it can be a little tricky to find on the first visit. If the Rokeby gate is not accessible, enter via the driveway at 23-25 Gipps St (look for the Kwik Kopy on the corner). Through Gipps Street, follow the driveway around to the left. We are the last property on the right-hand side before you reach the second gate that exits onto Rokeby Street.

Accessibility

Ramp or level (step free) entry, Accessible bathrooms, All-gender bathrooms, Assistance animals welcome, All ages

Second floor is accessible only via stairs. Ground floor bathroom available.

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