Project Spotlight - The Round House

by Synthetic Creative Services

Perched above the river in Murray Bridge’s historic Bridges and Wharf precinct stands the Round House – a striking 1876 residence that has worn many hats in the town’s story. Built as a bridge keeper’s home, it later served as a post office, school, church, council chamber, and family dwelling before becoming a State Heritage–listed museum. Today, it remains one of the Rural City of Murray Bridge’s most cherished heritage attractions.

But while the Round House’s architecture and history were compelling, its presentation as a museum risked being left behind. Displays were static and text-heavy. The Rural City of Murray Bridge recognised the need to refresh the Round House – to create an engaging, professional, and sustainable exhibition that would connect with audiences beyond the traditional retiree and tour group visitors.

What followed was a transformation that turned the Round House from a museum of “things” into a place of immersive storytelling – a project that not only reinvigorated the visitor experience but gave fresh pride to the community and volunteers who care for it.

From Static Displays to Living Stories

The turning point came in 2020 when volunteers undertook a major decluttering, removing decades of unrelated donations. The rooms were clearer, but something was still missing: the spark of interpretation that makes history come alive.

Synthetic Creative Services was engaged by Council to reimagine the Round House experience. Working closely with staff and long-serving volunteers, Richard helped shape a vision built on one guiding principle: history is best told through people.

At the heart of the new exhibition stands the story of a maid from the 1870s. Through digital media and projection, visitors hear her speak about her life in service, about Henry Parker – the bridge construction superintendent – and about the hopes and hardships of colonial Murray Bridge. The approach shifts focus from objects in cases to lived experience, weaving personal narratives into the broader story of the town’s first house and first bridge.

Children press interactive buttons that trigger light and sound effects, while retirees absorb layered storytelling that connects them to the past in fresh ways. The design balances authenticity with creativity, ensuring the Round House appeals to both heritage enthusiasts and new audiences.

A Community Effort

Community voices shaped the project from the beginning. Volunteers local knowledge guided the interpretation, while their memories of how visitors responded to the old displays shaped decisions about what needed to change.

Feedback from visitor books and tour coordinators reinforced the need for more interactivity

The process itself was iterative and collaborative. Projection effects were tested on site, refined with input from staff and volunteers, and installed only when the balance felt right. This approach ensured everyone had ownership in the outcome – not just the designer or the Council, but the whole Round House community.

Innovation on a Modest Budget

The project was delivered with a modest budget of $20,000, carefully prioritised to maximise impact. Professional fees were allocated to design and installation, while Council contributed project management, content development, and marketing. Volunteers added enormous in-kind value by preparing the building, researching, and providing visitor services.

Despite limited funds, the outcome is future-proof. Digital interpretation elements can be updated over time, content was structured in modular ways to allow new stories to be added, and energy-efficient lighting minimises running costs. Durable materials ensure the displays will last, while the design keeps interpretation fresh for years to come.

The project’s blend of professional design and community-driven storytelling demonstrates how even small regional museums can achieve high-quality, innovative outcomes when collaboration is at the core.

Welcoming New Audiences

Accessibility and inclusivity were central to the Round House’s reimagining. Panels use clear fonts and simple language, concessions and companion discounts keep the experience affordable, and locals are encouraged to visit free with a paying guest.

Most importantly, the exhibition was designed for multiple audience types. Families and schools now find hands-on activities and interactive storytelling that align with learning outcomes, while heritage lovers can still delve into detail. By broadening its appeal, the Round House now complements Murray Bridge’s wider tourism offer, from river cruises to regional festivals.

Outcomes and Impact

Feedback describes the exhibition as “engaging,” “unexpected,” and “something to bring the grandkids to.” Social media has amplified the impact, with images and reviews generating renewed interest and repeat visitation.

Educationally, the Round House now serves as a stronger resource for teachers, while emotionally, it fosters a sense of connection to the town’s foundations. Locals speak with pride about their history being presented in such a vibrant, professional way.

A Living Story for Generations

The Round House’s transformation is more than an upgrade of 2 displays – it is a reimagining of how heritage can be shared in regional South Australia. By blending professional design with community knowledge, and by focusing on people’s stories rather than just objects, the project has created a sustainable, inclusive, and engaging experience.

Most importantly, it has ensured that the Round House is not just preserved as a relic of the past, but embraced as a living story – a place where history continues to inspire, connect, and belong to all who visit.