Client
The City of Sydney
Location
Paddington, Sydney
Year Completed
2022
Duration
3 months
Project Type
Stonemasonry and Heritage Building Restoration

Strong Memorial Fountain, Paddington

Project Overview

RJC Group delivered conservation works to the Strong Memorial Fountain in Paddington, a historically significant public monument also known as The Boy with Paddle Fountain. The project involved restoration of decorative cast iron and sculptural elements, alongside structural and waterproofing works to preserve the fountain’s heritage character and improve its long-term condition.

  • Removal and treatment of cast iron components
  • Gold leaf gilding of the cherub using 24 carat gold leaf
  • Structural remediation and waterproofing works to stabilise and protect the fountain
  • Tiling and coping works completed as part of the overall restoration scope
  • Conserving a historically significant public fountain with decorative sculptural and cast iron elements
  • Coordinating restoration works across cast iron, gilding, waterproofing and surface finishes within a single scope
  • Preserving the fountain’s presentation and heritage detailing while addressing structural remediation requirements
  • Delivering conservation works within a publicly accessible setting

RJC Group carried out the works as a focused fountain conservation scope, combining decorative restoration with structural and waterproofing treatments. Each element was addressed carefully to preserve the fountain’s heritage presentation while supporting the long-term performance of the restored structure.

The project required coordination across multiple materials and finishes, with conservation and remediation works delivered in a way that maintained consistency with the fountain’s original character. All works were completed with a focus on detail, durability and heritage integrity.

  • Cast iron components restored as part of the overall conservation works
  • Cherub gilding reinstated using 24 carat gold leaf
  • Structural remediation and waterproofing works completed to support long-term performance
  • Presentation and heritage character of the fountain preserved through careful restoration methods
  • Conservation works completed successfully within a public setting
Scope of Works Arrow
  • Removal and treatment of cast iron components
  • Gold leaf gilding of the cherub using 24 carat gold leaf
  • Structural remediation and waterproofing works to stabilise and protect the fountain
  • Tiling and coping works completed as part of the overall restoration scope
Project Considerations Arrow
  • Conserving a historically significant public fountain with decorative sculptural and cast iron elements
  • Coordinating restoration works across cast iron, gilding, waterproofing and surface finishes within a single scope
  • Preserving the fountain’s presentation and heritage detailing while addressing structural remediation requirements
  • Delivering conservation works within a publicly accessible setting
Delivery & Approach Arrow

RJC Group carried out the works as a focused fountain conservation scope, combining decorative restoration with structural and waterproofing treatments. Each element was addressed carefully to preserve the fountain’s heritage presentation while supporting the long-term performance of the restored structure.

The project required coordination across multiple materials and finishes, with conservation and remediation works delivered in a way that maintained consistency with the fountain’s original character. All works were completed with a focus on detail, durability and heritage integrity.

Key Outcomes Arrow
  • Cast iron components restored as part of the overall conservation works
  • Cherub gilding reinstated using 24 carat gold leaf
  • Structural remediation and waterproofing works completed to support long-term performance
  • Presentation and heritage character of the fountain preserved through careful restoration methods
  • Conservation works completed successfully within a public setting
Restored Strong Memorial Fountain and gilded cherub in its Paddington garden setting, Sydney - RJC Group conservation
24 carat gold leaf applied to the cherub during Strong Memorial Fountain restoration, Paddington Sydney - RJC Group
Gilded cherub of the restored Strong Memorial Fountain seen across garden flowerbeds, Paddington Sydney - RJC Group
Restored Strong Memorial Fountain with gold-leaf gilded cherub on cast iron pedestal, Paddington Sydney - RJC Group
Restored decorative cast iron scroll fencing around the Strong Memorial Fountain garden, Paddington Sydney - RJC Group
Restored slate roof, sandstone parapet and Gothic detailing along St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney — RJC Group stonework
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