Torrens Building

The Torrens Building is a government building in Adelaide located at the intersection of Victoria Square and Wakefield Street, featuring Italian Renaissance and Palladian architectural elements. The structure displays symmetrical facades and multistory stone construction that defined standard government architecture of that era.

The building was completed in 1881 and initially served as New Government Offices. Over time it housed various departments including the Lands Titles Office and Engineering Department.

The building displays South Australian craftsmanship through its carefully worked stone surfaces and balanced facade reflecting European classical traditions. The elaborate details at windows and doorways show the high standards craftspeople brought to its construction.

The building underwent extensive renovation from 1993 to 1997 and was converted into educational facilities for international universities and community organizations. The interior spaces are now configured differently than originally, but from the outside the structure retained its historical appearance.

A commemorative plaque from 1958 marks the building's connection to the Torrens title system, a land registration method developed in South Australia. This registration approach was revolutionary and was later adopted in many other countries.