In 1997 the brick facade of the landmark building was restored with new facilities created in behind. The workshops were adapted for use as a performing arts space, but after a seismic assessment in 2010-11 they were closed, and were currently used only for storage. UCOL’s safer buildings project did not extend to upgrading the workshops. The next door old Plunket rooms were currently being strengthened and adapted for use by students working with businesses on some practical applications of their studies. Heritage NZ’s review of the workshops found they were significant for their architectural, historical and social values.