Heritage Projects
York Street Synagogue Visualisation - Unreal Engine 5
In 2021, I collaborated with art historian and curator Dr. Jana Vytrhlik to digitally recreate the lost interior of the York Street Synagogue. Jana’s deep knowledge of the synagogue’s history and Zac's 3D visualisation skills came together to transform these plans into a virtual reconstruction. Using archival references, historical research, and photogrammetry scans, including one of the original ark now housed at The Great Synagogue, they brought York Street Synagogue back to life.
Accompanying the visualisation is the music of Isaac Nathan, If That High World, from his Hebrew Melodies.
The visualisation has been featured in Dr Jana Vytrhlik’s 2024 book, Treasures of Old Jewish Sydney, which is held by notable figures including former Prime Minister John Howard, Premier Chris Minns, and the Chief Justice of NSW, The Honourable Justice Andrew Bell.
This visualisation has also been showcased at various talks, including Limmud Oz and The Falk Lectures.
Heritage Building Restoration/Visualisation CGI
Established in 1878, The Great Synagogue has long been a significant space for the community. As part of its restoration, I contributed to the design process, visualisations, and photogrammetry, ensuring historical accuracy while enhancing the space for the future.
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My work included modelling key architectural elements such as the tiles, steps, reading platform, pulpit, and the ark with its new cupolas. These visualisations helped refine the plan to relocate the central platform to its original position, aligning with architect Thomas Rowe’s vision.
This restoration will ensure the synagogue remains a welcoming and vibrant space for generations to come.
Heritage Grate Restoration
In 2021 I documented the comprehensive restoration of the historic cast iron gates at Sydney's Great Synagogue, originally designed by architect Thomas Rowe and manufactured by Fletcher Bros. foundry in 1878. After over 140 years of exposure to Sydney's elements, the gates had severely deteriorated, requiring complete heritage restoration under the direction of architect George Bensen and heritage consultant Zoltan Kovacs.
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Working closely with project director David Newman and restoration specialists Scobie McIntosh Pty Ltd, I created a detailed visual record of this complex heritage conservation project spanning 2021-2022. My documentation captures the intricate process of restoring these significant architectural elements, which cost over 400 pounds when originally installed; a substantial investment reflecting their importance to the synagogue's design.
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This project exemplifies my approach to digital heritage preservation: combining historical research with comprehensive visual documentation to create lasting records of significant conservation efforts. The resulting documentation serves both as a technical record of restoration methodology and as a testament to the collaborative effort required to preserve Australia's architectural heritage.
Upcoming Projects...
Utilising advanced drone photogrammetry techniques to create comprehensive digital maps and 3D reconstructions of historically significant sites. This aerial documentation project combines cutting-edge UAV technology to capture detailed spatial data and create immersive historical narratives.
