MASTER GLAZIER PROJECT PROFILES

DARRYN MALPUSS

Darryn joined the AGWA Master Glazier program in 2015 and is employed with Glass Processing Australia, part of the DLC Group in Perth, Western Australia. He has been in the Perth glass industry since 1981, when he joined the family business (Whitford City Glass). The project Darryn has chosen to highlight is a new build of five apartments in North Coogee, Western Australia. Products were made and installed by the DLC Group. He explains the project as follows:

'I was heavily involved with this project. We installed multiple products that required a vast spread of knowledge in the glazing industry to complete all tasks. Toughened Mirralight was used for splashbacks and EnduroShield was applied to all glass products, including both sides of the pool fencing. Due to the proximity to the water's edge, some pool fencing spigots were earthed (some people are unaware of this standard). Some balustrading, in grey toughened, incorporated downlights in the handrails and some used a stainless-steel cabling system. We also used outdoor sliding and fixed louvre panels with some very large sections at the front of the building.

'Using partially printed glass for shower screens and toilet doors, rather than a full satin-etched glass, produced a more bespoke look that was both practical and created a feeling of spaciousness. The glass above and below the digital printing was left clear adding to the luxurious ambiance of the whole apartment. This allowed the internal tiles to be seen and maintained the illusion of space.

Black custom balustrade.

IMAGE: Darryn Malpuss

'Electric strikes were used on side glass gates for remote operation and the earthed spigots mentioned were completed as per electrical code AS 3000:2007.

'These units and building looked quite bland prior to our finishing touches. We are extremely proud of the finished product and the skill level and diversity of our group who took this building from average to 6-star luxury. The site consultation and design changes I offered to the client were taken on board and this further improved the finished product. Our customer and the homeowners are very pleased with the end result and have received quality products and workmanship from my team.

'The project was completed on time and with very little complication due to Master Glazier and management input in overseeing the installation, design and site measurement, etc. Our team understands the National Construction Code and other relevant Australian Standards, so compliance is quite an easy process. The fact that we did all this in-house offered our younger staff members the opportunity to learn and adapt on-site. The experience enables them to become great all-rounders on their way to future Master Glazier status.

'A special thanks goes out to Cris Bray, General Manager of WA Special Projects (WASP). His input and site supervision was invaluable. Thanks again, Cris.'

If you would like to find out more on this project or products used, please contact Darryn Malpuss at d.malpuss@dlcgroup.com.au

Glass fencing of the Coogee apartments.

IMAGE: Darryn Malpuss

CHRIS HENWOOD

Chris joined the AGWA Master Glazier program in 2018 and founded Façade Site Services in Perth, Western Australia, in 2020. The project Chris has chosen to highlight is the refurbishment of a building in Perth. He explains the project as follows:

'The project involved the refurbishment of a 13-storey building both inside and out, including the installation of skylight glass in the main void. The span covered six levels with a five panel skylight, each weighing 1400 kg. Another part of the refurbishment was the installation of a unique unitised curtain wall with over 130 different panel types. United Crane Services 220 t Demag helped install the last level.

Lifting the curtainwall into place.

IMAGE: Chris Henwood

'Part of what I did was provide water testing with a full report together with photos and explanations. These were all compliant with AAMA 501.2 Standards. I also project managed an acoustic-rated internal partition suite with curved corners and slim line features, which gives an inviting feel when entering the floors.

'On this project I worked with Façade Management Australia – Design and Construct. The building is due to be completed by the end of 2021.

'For the last 10 months, I have been involved in managing the installation on a project which consists of the curtain wall installation, skylight glass installation, internal partition installation, glass canopy, perforated screen installation and balustrade installation. On this project, I worked with Façade Management Australia – Design and Construct. The building is due to be completed in early 2022.

'All of these aspects of the project have been challenging in some way, but I am proud to have been co-managing such a unique and varied project.'

If you would like to find out more about aspects of this project, please contact Chris Henwood on 0423 460 709 or at chris@facadesiteservices.com.au

Water testing the facade.

IMAGE: Chris Henwood