ABOUT US
COMPANY OVERVIEW
Since 1999, Barnes Construction & Joinery has been involved in the conservation of historically significant buildings and structures throughout Queensland and New South Wales. Our name has become synonymous with expert advice and the highest quality craftsmanship.
We work closely with industry experts such as heritage engineers, architects and associated trades to deliver holistic and comprehensively researched solutions to clients via our conservation consultancy service.
When clients engage Barnes Construction & Joinery, they are not only accessing an experienced conservation consultant, they also have the opportunity for that same person to carry out the physical construction and restoration work required. The person who provides the consultancy service is the same person who has the specialist trade skills to bring the project to fruition, ensuring projects are delivered as per the agreed scope of work, on time and on budget.
Our portfolio covers a wide range of projects including the ongoing completion and conservation works at St John’s Cathedral and its precincts, Adelaide House (The Deanery), Old Government House, Government House (Fernberg House), Brisbane City Hall, Queensland Rail’s historically significant infrastructure, and private woodwork commissions for organisations and individuals, including State Premiers and Arch Bishops.
Barnes Construction and Joinery conducts the majority of its work in South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales with interstate and international projects undertaken when requested.
OUR APPROACH
As one of Australia’s leading building conservation consultants, Barnes Construction & Joinery is committed to the standards set in the Australia ICOMOS Charter for the Conservation of Places of Cultural Significance (The Burra Charter).
These standards guide our work with a focus on retaining as much of the original fabric as possible and providing sustainable conservation solutions. By understanding how to conserve the fabric of a building, the historical significance of that building can be retained for future generations.
Barnes Construction & Joinery is also well known for the design and production of ecclesiastical and fine art woodworking. The intricacy of these pieces can only be achieved by craftsmen with an intimate knowledge of Australian timbers and their symbolic meanings and historical uses.
To view examples of the projects we’ve undertaken, please visit our Projects page.
Signal Cabin A, Conservation Project – Toowoomba
OUR TEAM
When you engage with Barnes Construction and Joinery, you deal directly with the people who will be carrying out the work, ensuring projects are delivered as per the agreed scope of work, on time and on budget.
Our clients benefit from our experience and reputation and have ready access to the very best experts in associated trades.
Jonathon (Jack) Barnes
Director & Conservation Builder
Jack is a third-generation wood craftsman and master carpenter with his interest in historical architectural conservation sparked by working alongside his father in the family business. Jack is a QBCC licensed builder and member of the Queensland Master Builders Association. He has invested in the development of his skills in carpentry, traditional joinery, French polishing, timber conservation and repair, ecclesiastical woodwork and fine art wood carving.
In 2010, Jack was awarded a Churchill Fellowship which provided him with the opportunity to study timber conservation and repair techniques in the United Kingdom. In 2018, his work on the Queensland Rail Heritage Program was recognised by the National Trust Heritage Awards.
His down to earth nature, commitment to authentic and traditional craftsmanship and practical approach are respected and trusted by clients and peers. The legacy Jack hopes to leave for future generations is that his work in the conservation, preservation and authentic restoration and reconstruction of a site is indistinguishable from the original work undertaken.
Ben Abey
Project Assistant
Ben joined Barnes Construction & Joinery in 2015 and shares our passion for preserving the cultural heritage of our built environment. Over this time he has developed his skills in onsite conservation works and traditional finishes and is also responsible for Work Place Health and Safety compliance and the collating of client proposals and tenders.
Michelle Barnes
Accounts
Michelle is a qualified accountant (CPA) and provides bookkeeping and administrative support to the business, ensuring all accounting and compliance requirements are met.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Churchill Fellow 2010
Timber Conservation and Repair Techniques - United Kingdom
National Trust Heritage Awards 2018
John Herbert Memorial Award (for the most outstanding nomination across all categories) for the Queensland Rail 2017 Heritage Management Program
National Trust Heritage Awards 2018
Agency Conservation Programs Gold Award for the Queensland Rail Heritage Program 2017
OUR VALUES
These values underpin how we carry out our work and manage our business.
CONSERVATION
A passion for conserving Australia’s architectural heritage.
Integrity
We conduct ourselves with transparency, honesty and a focus on what is best for the building.
Quality
A commitment to quality workmanship and procedures with a consistent outcome.
Education
Continued professional development ensuring we remain at the forefront of conversation methods, technology and standards.
LICENCES & ACCREDITATIONS
QUEENSLAND BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION COMMISSION
QBCC Licence 1080041
MASTER BUILDERS QUEENSLAND
Licence number 21502
SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF ANCIENT BUILDINGS
Member