Builders choice magazine march 2014

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MARCH 2014

www.thebuilderschoice.com.au

Roy Hill Showcase State of the Art Headquarters Perth

CAB Member Since November 2010

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FROM THE EDITOR ................................................................................... 12 PROFILE Tim Boekhoorn ..................................................................... 16 PROFILE Horatio Alvarez...................................................................... 18 PRO FILE Dominic Snellgrove ......................................................... 20 PROFILE DeShanon Naoum............................................................. 22 PROFILE Carmelo Princiotto ............................................................. 24 PROFILE Peter Romiti ..............................................................................63 PROFILE Gareth Richards ..................................................................117

NEW SOUTH PERTH JOINT VENTURE ................................. 105 Finbar Group announces a new joint venture to develop a 2266 square metre site in South Perth.

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE................................................................ 32 By 2016 the construction industry will be Western Australia’s second-biggest employer, new figures show.

COVER STORY KING OF THE HILL..................................................................................26 Roy Hill’s new office in the Perth Airport Precinct raises the standard for remote mine operations.

on the cover

INDUSTRY NEWS & VIEWS

Roy Hill Showcase State of the Art Headquarters Perth

ADJUDICATION: HOW IT WORKS AND PITFALLS TO AVOID ................................................................................ 70

Read our cover story on page 26.

Les Buchbinder, Partner, Bowen Buchbinder Vilensky, on the ins and outs of adjudication

4 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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COMMERCIAL

RESIDENTIAL

NEXT GENERATION IN DATA CENTRES ................................... 35

NORTH WEST TRAILBLAZERS ................................................... 40

Artwork and technology come together as WA data becomes more secure.

Rising majestically from the red dust, the Baynton West Apartments expand Karratha’s housing stock.

LEADING THE WAY ......................................................................... 42 Pritchard Francis helps deliver a state-of-the-art facility to spearhead the battle against cancer in Western Australia.

WORLDLY INFLUENCE ................................................................... 48 With complete freedom to explore a variety of design concepts, Brian Burke Homes comes up with a unique luxury home in Dalkeith.

DRIVEN TO INNOVATE ................................................................ 44 The new Toyota WA Head Office building in Kewdale incorporates cutting edge techniques to create a landmark environmentally friendly project.

IN THE PRIME OF ITS LIFE ............................................................. 53 A century-old inner city building comes back to (compliant) life thanks to the expertise of Meyer Shircore & Associates Architects and builder Perkins TPD.

ALL CARE TAKEN ............................................................................. 95 The soon-to-be completed Fiona Stanley Hospital in Murdoch will provide a new level of healthcare for all Western Australians.

MONKEY SEE, GVM SOLUTIONS DO ...................................... 114 GVM’s successful refurbishment of the Monkey Mia Restaurant extends their portfolio to regional work.

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AN ENVIRONMENTAL SUPERSTAR ............................................. 56 A Geraldton development ushers in a new generation of 10-Star environmentally friendly living.

CAM CAN BUILD ............................................................................. 59 As the winning tenderer on this Nedlands home, Cambuild adds another successful project to its growing list.

SERENITY AT ITS BEST ................................................................... 64 Averna Homes’ Villa Serene has a timeless old-money feel but with a contemporary modern twist.

BEST FACE FORWARD .................................................................... 67 A 1980s face brick home is brought into the 21st Century.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY WITH I N EVERYON E’S R EAC H Polar Eco-View Windows utilise a double-glazed Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) system that offers a simple, energy-efficient, and cost-effective solution to heating and cooling your home.

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74 110 VIEW FROM THE TOP ................................................................... 74

PENNY LANE PROJECT RIGHT ON THE MONEY .....................92

Ben Trager Homes makes owning a new two-storey affordable.

SPH Architecture + Interiors adds value to a striking residential apartment complex adjacent to the Perth Mint.

SAVVY AND SOPHISTICATED .................................................... 78 Alternative ceiling and lighting help make this home feel like a luxury hotel for the owner.

HEART OF HIGHGATE .................................................................. 82 St Marks combines Finbar’s latest development with one of Perth’s oldest suburbs - and does it in style!

THE EAGLE ROCKS.........................................................................86 The Eagle, a new modular home from National Lifestyle Villages, is the perfect fit for 21st Century “downsizers”.

IN FULL FLOW .............................................................................. 106 Boutique builder Azure Construction brings some clever thinking to the table to create a beautiful multi-storey Nedlands home close to the Swan River.

THE LITTLE WHITE HOUSE ...................................................... 110 Shining like a beacon, this home by Weststyle illuminates the neighbourhood.

WONDER WALLS ......................................................................... 118 We’ve come a long way since paint, plaster and “fusty old wallpaper” were the only options for jazzing up a blank wall.

SOUTHERN BROOK BARNSTORMER .........................................89

SUSTAINABILITY LIVING FOR TOMORROW ......................... 124

A stunning sustainable energy efficient rural home is inspired by local vernacular and environment.

Marc Drexel, director of ARCactive, outlines what it takes to embark on sustainable living.

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is produced quarterly by

Business Promotions Australia PO Box 1307, Wangara DC WA 6947 Ph: (08) 9409 5143 Fax: (08) 9409 3372 Email: admin@bpaust.com.au Publisher Gary Boulos

120

Managing Editor / Production Manager Merelyn Demarte Sub-­Editor Norman Burns Admin/Artwork Co-­ordinator Gina York Graphic Designer Pearlin Bracewell Writer Rocky Amatulli

HEATING THE HEAT IS ON........................................................................... 120 There are many ways to heat your home - almost as many ways as there are pros and cons for each method.

WATER EFFICIENCY KICKING GOALS .......................................................................... 122

Sales Executives Rod Saggers, Mike Thake Accounts Julie Jones Printer Quality Press Distributor Northside Logistics

How the North West Corridor Water Supply Strategy will future-proof water supplies for public open spaces.

ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION .........126 BUILDING PRODUCTS & SERVICES ..................................128 DIRECTORY LISTINGS ...............................................................140 TRADIES CORNER .......................................................................142

CORRECTIONS Some gremlins got through the production process of two articles in the December 2013 The Builders Choice Magazine, so we are re-running the corrected versions. See page 110 for the piece on the stunning home built by Gavin Hestelow’s Weststyle and page 82 for the report on Finbar’s stylish St Marks development in Highgate.

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CAB Member Since November 2010 COPYRIGHT: Copyright to all original material in this publication is owned by the publisher, Business Promotions Australia, and cannot be reproduced in any form, whole or part, without prior express written permission of the publisher. DISCLAIMER: While every effort is made by the publisher to ensure the accuracy of the content of this publication, responsibility will not be accepted for any errors or omissions. The publisher believes all information supplied and featured in this magazine to be correct at the time of printing. Placement of orders for advertisements by advertisers or their agents will be deemed as being an indemnification of the publisher against all liability, claims or proceedings arising from the publication of material supplied by them. All advertising shall comply with relevant State and Federal Laws and the advertising codes of the Media Council of Australia. The publishers and staff of The Builders Choice Magazine do not necessarily agree with opinions expressed throughout the publication.

Please note: The Editor reserves the right to alter and/or trim any submitted text (including advertisements and editorials) to ensure conformity with the publication’s style guide and space allocation.

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from the editor Welcome to the first issue of The Builders Choice for 2014. Throughout the year we will continue to feature many interesting and outstanding projects. One of these features could be yours. BPA has successfully completed the Face to Face Young Engineers Australia Expo held at the Claremont Showgrounds on March 15. Don’t forget to register if your company would like to secure a booth for 2015. Please contact Gary or Julie on 9409 5143. The must-read stories in this edition include our cover story on page 26 which showcases the state-of-the-art corporate headquarters and remote operations centre for Roy Hill Mining. The client had a strong desire to portray a recognisable and established corporate identity, but the building also needed to have provision for a high level of amenity for operational staff and technology for operations, and incorporate a 4.5 NABERS equivalence for energy efficiency. Turn to our feature to read more on this outstanding project. Also in this issue is our feature on the new Perth Data Centre. NEXTDC builds and operates highly reliable, customer-focused data centres to world-class standards, all across Australia. Its growing national network currently comprises five facilities located in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Perth, designed as much for those working in them as for the incident-free operation of critical IT infrastructure for its clients. Please read this feature on page 35. AN END OF AN ERA BPA and The Builders Choice Magazine wish to convey our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Mr Len Buckeridge. He passed away at his Peppermint

Grove home on Tuesday March 11. Len Buckeridge was one of WA’s most prominent figures. Mr Buckeridge was a well-respected man who started his construction firm, BGC, from scratch more than 50 years ago and developed it into one of Australia’s major private business empires with annual turnover of more than $2.5 billion and which today employs more than 4300 people. Many people may not have known that Mr Buckeridge was a trained architect. He was a self-made billionaire, and lived an extraordinary life. Len can be described as a man of many words. He will be remembered as a man that built an empire and changed the face of construction in WA. He has left behind a legacy for his family that will carry on here in WA for many years to come. May he rest in peace. Look out for our award winners in our June issue and many more wonderful projects to feature. If you have a project, or a new product you would like to showcase throughout our next three issues for 2014, please email the details to editor@bpaust.com.au or call me on 08 9409 5143 to discuss the details.

Merelyn Demarte Managing Editor Email: editor@bpaust.com.au

Australia’s Bike Parking Experts. New Product Brochure & Website Available Now. Made in WA

P: 1800 249 878 F: 1800 249 879 E: sales@cora.com.au indoor I outdoor I commercial I residential 12 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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You’ll find our new Technical Manual as handy as ever.

Our new edition Technical Manual has arrived. It’s easy to use and full of all the information you need to make the right decisions when designing, planning and specifying bricks and blocks. Download it now at midlandbrick.com.au, talk to your Midland Brick Sales Executive or call 13 15 40 to get your hands on a copy.

Designers & Makers of fine cabinetry & furniture Visit our new showroom at 64-68 Achievement Way, Wangara WA 6065 T (08) 9302 3311 I E kitchens@jamel.com.au I W www.jamel.com.au

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PROFILE

up close + personal with

tim boekhoorn ARCHITECT – HAMES SHARLEY PERTH // interviewed by merelyn demarte

Why did you become an architect? From an early age I fell in love with architecture, moulding spaces that people occupy and engage with was a romantic notion that architecture is an important undertone that subconsciously and directly affects the quality of life for people. I studied Architecture at UWA and graduated with honours in 2000, my career has been predominately focused in the residential and multi-residential field; notwithstanding the odd variance here and there for sanity’s sake. My first job was working for a small design based practice in Perth, I then moved to Mirvac Development Group in 2003 working in Perth, Sydney and Brisbane. I returned to Perth in 2011 and joined Hames Sharley. They excited me with their great diversity of work and opportunity for growth. Are there any occupational goals you have yet to achieve or challenges to be met? I believe any career should be a constant progression, always trying to learn more from clients, competitors, colleagues, and consultants. It is in the best interest of the industry that people have an appetite for knowledge. I am under no illusions about my depth of knowledge in certain facets, but understanding my weaknesses allows me to focus on them, assisting me in being a better and more rounded employee and colleague. I try to contribute to different aspects of the practice to make it a better and more enjoyable place to work, and one that educates and promotes the next level of architects. I like to think I am still a young player in this industry and there are many goals yet to attain. I do quite a lot of front-end design, concept visioning, yield analysis, and liaising with clients and consultants but sometimes you do crave to take the job the whole way through to construction documentation and contract administration so that you can really say “that was me, I did that” – but I believe that architecture is a team game and you rely on different characters with differing strengths to help deliver the project in the most efficient manner.

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Have you undertaken a particularly unusual or challenging project? Most challenging Project work currently would have to be our newest development for Pindan at the MRA precinct of China Green in Subiaco. These sites are contained within a precinct that has strong heritage connections to its previous use as the Australian Fine China site (also formerly known as Calyx Porcelain and Paint Company, Wembley Ware and Bristille). There are many challenges on the site including; reference to the history of the site with a contemporary industrial aesthetic; building mass and height envelopes; plot ratio controls; car and bike parking; public art contribution; ESD Initiatives as well as connection into the local geothermal system; rainwater harvesting, grey-water recycling and energy reduction targets. The real challenge was finding a balance with the aesthetics that meets the expectations of the MRA Design Review Panel, Pindan’s feasibility model and market expectations of apartment living in Subiaco. We have now an approved DA, so fingers crossed all stakeholders will be happy with the end outcome. In regards to non related project work, I have appointed myself as one of the gatekeepers of project and practice knowledge sharing. We have a session once a month in the WA office called 3 in 30 where individuals talk about three projects in detail for 10 minutes (per project). This allows education to all staff about what is being designed, built or planned within the company and may go into some technical or statutory detail. Another session we have is 13 in 26 minutes where it covers a lot more subject matter i.e. upcoming work, new staff, new HR or ESD policies, charity or social events, project status updates from all portfolios, etc. This allows all staff better knowledge of the practice and its people. I think it is essential in fostering a team environment where people understand the direction the company is heading and ensure they are aligned with the vision and values of the office, and a great way to get to know their peers.

THE BUILDERS CHOICE SURÀ OH

Rawlinsons I believe any career should be a constant progression...

What are some of your favourite materials used on your projects? Any material that helps you break down the form and express interest is a benefit. Sometimes in the multi-residential landscape it’s hard to move away from the precast, glass and Colorbond realm; it is what’s known, costed, consistent and expected (in WA), but adding accent materials such as Nail-strip, shadow clad, the Sycon products or even just off-form concrete and used as a purist element rather than painting over the top can add another layer of texture to our traditional base. I think we need to use ‘‘alternative’’ materials from the outset and not simply as decoration and incorporate them into the design so they become intrinsic to the building philosophy; when it’s simply‘‘tack-on dressing’’ it is easier for it to be removed in the value management process. Where do you draw your main inspirations from? For me, inspiration is really about two things; the site with its available amenity and the inhabitants. People come first, their space that they occupy and the opportunity for amenity to enhance their experience. Architecture is about creating a sensory experience for the user by linking people, place and building with its surroundings. Having a balanced focus between building form and people provides for enhanced opportunities for view, breezes and solar gain. This concept of focusing first on public urban spaces for living is an integral part of creating a vibrant community space. What projects are you working on? Currently the apartment market in WA seems to be gathering some momentum with a lot more interest and proposals from developers hitting the ground. Construction costs in WA are always a limiting factor, and sometimes preliminary design work takes some time to get momentum due to funding or approvals where we have had to push some boundaries to make the projects feasible. We are currently working on one of the sites within China Green Precinct in Subiaco for Pindan. Stage one, consisting of 74 apartments, is currently on the market and Stage 2 is in early sketch design and will yield a further 119 dwellings. We have a few other projects at various stages of approval in areas such as South Hedland, Perth, South Perth, Applecross and East Fremantle. What activities are you involved in outside of work? Children, children, children and children! I have been married to my long-time soulmate for 12 years. We were dating nearly all the way through my university days and she has been my sounding board and leveller of rationality ever since. We have four amazing kids (three boys and a girl) ranging in ages from 11 years to 18 months. Hence most of our weekends consist of kids’ sporting activities, training, birthday parties, and trips to the beach or the park. BC Tim has been recently been promoted to Associate level within the Hames Sharley structure as the practice continues its focus on cultivating future leaders to strengthen the brand moving forward.

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PHONE 1300 730 117 www.rawlhouse.com The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 17

PROFILE

up close + personal with

horatio alvarez DIRECTOR, ELEMENTS PROPERTY GROUP // interviewed by rocky amatulli

What is your professional background? I completed a Property Degree and Masters of Business Administration at Curtin University, and began my career working as a project manager on the Mandurah Forum Shopping Centre (which consisted of a major redevelopment, including Woolworths Supermarket, BIG W and 60 additional tenancies). Next in my career I expanded as the development manager for medium density apartment developments which included Aria Apartments and Nautilus Apartments on the Rockingham foreshore, transforming the seaside precinct. I was also the development manager for The Mezz Shopping Centre in Mount Hawthorn, and then went on to become the client joint venture representative for Hawaiian with Brookfield Multiplex up to Development Approval for the Claremont Quarter development, and the development manager for a seven-hectare mixed-use commercial/residential/tourism Master Plan development in Broome with an end value of $400m during my role with Hawaiian. I then went on to establish my own business, Elements Property Group in 2007. Tell us about Elements Property Group Elements Property Group provides property advisory, property development management, and project management services to property owners and developers. The other part of our business is where we acquire land and develop boutique mixed-use commercial and residential projects that we either on-sell or retain for investment. My role as group director is to provide key property and development services to our clients. The range of sectors we operate in includes commercial/offices, retail/shopping centres, mixed-use developments, large format/bulk goods, industrial, retirement villages, and tourism. I enjoy being involved in all of these project sectors; each sector has its unique characteristics which in turn makes every project unique and exciting to be involved in.

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What do you get the most satisfaction from? There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a project that we have been involved in reach completion, and seeing how it changes the local community landscape. The flow-on effect of projects we are involved in stem from how a community and end-users interact with a building and surroundings when life and activity are injected into the precinct… and this is also a source of great satisfaction. Developers and stakeholder should never lose sight that property development is not about bricks and mortar - it’s about people and how they interact with the property - whether it be a civic building, retail, café or one’s home. Is it a challenging industry? Yes. Leading and managing large teams on projects can always be challenging, but in particular when dealing with external stakeholders which include councils, the local community, and end-users of a development. The key to progressing projects successfully is by communicating the vision, solving issues by laterally, and always working in good faith to overcome challenges that may confront the team. Travelling interstate and oversees is an excellent way to see new emerging trends in the various project sectors, and this is one way I stay motivated, sharp and ahead of the game. What makes your approach unique? My style of management is a collaborative one; however I never lose focus of the commercial realities that confront projects. When there are issues it’s essential that I surround myself with the best people with the required knowledge and skills in specific areas in order for me to draw upon their knowledge and experience. Property development is team business which makes it no different to playing a team sport at the elite level. This is where a team needs a good coach to lead them and to ensure the most appropriate members are on the team at any given time.

THE BUILDERS CHOICE SURÀ OH

There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a project that we have been involved in reach completion, and seeing how it changes the local community landscape.

What have you learnt from your experiences? I have learnt that ‘‘one never stops learning’’. I learn something every single day - from suppliers, from contractors, from consultants and from builders. This makes my days exciting in an ever changing development landscape. Every project is different from the last and the next. It’s very important to balance costs, quality and products for each project. What changes have you noticed in your industry? The fundamentals are still the same, however there is much more regulation to adhere to, which adds time and costs to projects. I believe that we must embrace change and develop better methods, systems and projects which enhance the community… not only for the medium term, but for the long-term. A property developers’ challenge is to ensure that product being developed now meets the market’s needs at a future time. Hence thinking ahead of demographic trends will assist developers to plan in advance to ensure their products are relevant. Who would ever have thought that the quarter-acre block is now essentially obsolete, and the trend is for much smaller lots and downsizing to apartments near amenities to meet peoples’ changing lifestyle patterns would be the norm? With an ageing population, these trends will continue for the next several decades.

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What projects you are working on? We were appointed by a private client as the development manager to deliver a $40m Bulky goods centre in Cannington know and ’Bulkyplex’ (located on William Street, Cannington). Tenants include The Good Guys, Fantastic Furniture, Anaconda, Furniture Spot, Kitchen Warehouse and Curtin Wonderland. We are also providing feasibility and strategic development advice to clients for a 7000sqm office project, 100 apartments in Cockburn Central and a 100 short-stay apartment development. Elements itself has also secured a development site in the northern coastal corridor for a mixed-use development consisting of commercial and residential units.

JDS has added 5 new products that are now available to the market. The new metal fascia we have designed has been in use in the South West for some time now and has been met with rave reviews. Available in Zincalume and all Colorbond colours, JDS has made significant improvements including a special clip that results in no fascia clip marks on the fascia itself.

How do you unwind outside of work? I’m blessed and enjoy spending time with my wonderful family who are the light bearers of my life, and being in the company of close friends. For me, family comes first and business second! I also have a passion for great coffee and Spanish food and wine, and I regularly visit various venues who prepare gastronomic food in the Perth metropolitan area.

For information on any of our products please do not hesitate to contact one of our friendly sales team.

What would you like to be remembered for? For being passionate and involved in projects that bring life to their local community. BC

With the introduction of our JDS Deluxe Frame and the expansion of our Commercial Division JDS can now be looked upon as a one stop shop for all profiles of metal doorframes that are currently being offered in the WA market.

21 Alloa Road, Maddington WA 6109 p. 9493 3356 f. 9493 3358 Freecall 1300 360 432 Bunbury Office: 22 Sweny Drive, Australind WA 6233 p. 9797 0210 f. 9797 0310

www.jdsmetaldoorframes.com.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 19

up close + personal with

dominic snellgrove MANAGING DIRECTOR, CAMERON CHISHOLM NICOL // interviewed by merelyn demarte

What is your background and your current role? I was born in the UK and studied at the Architectural Association in London during the 1980s. I have lived and worked in London, Paris, Berlin and Sydney, and for the past 10 years in Perth. Since I can remember I have always wanted to be an architect and remain very committed to the profession and what it can offer. I am currently the managing director of Cameron Chisholm Nicol - an award winning Australian leader in integrated architecture, urban design and interior design services. The company has a proud heritage stretching back under a continuous line of principals to 1882. We are active in many project sectors, including multi-residential, office, retail, sport and entertainment, education, health and aged care, hospitality, leisure and defence. I am responsible for ensuring our people have the support and opportunities they look for in their careers, and that our clients receive best-practice design services across all sectors we operate in. I am involved in all stages of our projects but have a focus on the initial concept design and briefing stages, working closely with our clients and stakeholders. What projects have been the most enjoyable? I get involved with all projects that pass through our office. I enjoy the challenges of commercial office design as well as multi-residential apartment design. Since winning the Perth Arena competition with our partners in 2005 I have enjoyed working on the project from the stakeholder engagement process through concept design and delivery of what has become an important piece of civic infrastructure for the people of WA. I particularly enjoy the process of understanding how sustainable design can be integrated into all projects to create better environmental outcomes and long-term lifecycle benefits.

How do you stay motivated within a profession which is rewarding but also challenging? Apart from great works of architecture from all ages, I am always inspired by people who are passionate about what they do. The collective experience and commitment of our people is central to achieving the best outcomes for our clients and stakeholders and successfully managing challenges on projects. Nowadays however, budgets, programs and construction methodology are always challenging. Integrating sustainable design from the commencement of the project is also a challenge and needs to happen early in the process to ensure an economic and effective outcome. Early project definition and a detailed understanding of the client and stakeholder requirements is one of the best ways of creating the right environment for a successful process. The collective experience of our people provides great inspiration for me. What innovations has the company developed? We are a client-focused design practice, so our focus on the client’s commercial objectives in the early stages of the project enables us to understand the parameters around which we can deliver creative and innovative design solutions. As a company, we are very proud of the sustainable design initiatives and innovations introduced in the Perth Arena. The project uniquely incorporates a displacement air conditioning system that delivers air from beneath the seats through a continuous plenum. This means that only the volume occupied by people is air-conditioned and reduces the overall energy requirements considerably as well as increasing the indoor environment quality. The project also utilises natural ventilation for the public concourses and has one of the largest photo-voltaic arrays in the Perth metro area.

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I enjoy the challenges of commercial office design as well as multi-residential apartment design.

How has your industry changed since you first started? Technology is transforming our industry at a rapid rate. Construction technology, materials, and the technology to deliver these changes are moving faster than ever before. Building Information Management has transformed the way we deliver design. Our virtual 3D technology allows us to incrementally construct a 3D virtual environment for every project. The integration of all consultant design into one project model has dramatic benefits for the design, construction and operational phase of a building’s lifespan. What are some of the challenges that you see for your industry in the future? Firstly, we need to understand that the majority of buildings have a cost to both the owner and the environment in its operational lifespan. Over 80% of the building’s cost is post-construction, and during its operation. Decisions made at the design and construction phase can have a dramatic impact on reducing these lifecycle costs. Finding economic strategies to mitigate lifecycle costs and embedding those at the design and construction phase is a big challenge for the industry to embrace. What have you learnt from your experience in the profession? I have learnt to work closely with the client and the builder to understand their requirements. Preferred construction methodologies have a dramatic impact on the detail design approach – and this understanding can have a positive impact on the client and their project!

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What other projects are you working on? We currently have more than 1500 apartments at different stages of the design and delivery process, with more than 200 currently on site. We have 20,000sqm of office building under construction and a number of healthcare projects in the design and documentation phase. What do you enjoy doing outside of work, and how would you like to be remembered? I enjoy spending time with my family, travelling and cycling – this provides that work-life balance for me. I have enjoyed helping introduce sustainable design into the commercial office market by being the design and project architect for 30 The Bond (the Sydney Lend Lease Headquarters building) and the first 5 Star Green Star office building in Australia. Being the Cameron Chisholm Nicol Perth Director for the Perth Arena and seeing that building win the Sir Zelman Cowen National Award for Public Architecture is also a milestone in my life and career. BC

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 21

PROFILE

up close + personal with

deshanon naoum SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER, MEYER SHIRCORE & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS // interviewed by merelyn demarte – editor

What encouraged you to become an interior designer? I decided to pursue Art and Design as part of my subject selections at high school and as a result was inspired. That’s when I thought a career centred on creativity would be ideal for me. I have always been keen toward creating things whether it be a painting, a prototype or simply generating ideas. Being an artist also crossed my mind, though the challenge of maintaining a sustainable income discouraged me going forward. I have also been intrigued with technical construction and how to achieve one’s creation in a practical sense. Interior Design is an ideal career for a creative yet logical thinker as it encompasses art, design and functionality.

of what they want, while others are looking for a direction and your suggestions toward bringing their visions to reality. I have found the key to a positive relationship with your client is gaining their confidence in your capabilities as a designer. Once you have gained their confidence, they are happy to be guided by your advice. A lot of clients view interior design as a difficult task, so I like to take that pressure away and assure the client that I will take care of this part of the project. It is important to protect your client’s interest and pay close attention toward their needs throughout the whole project. A collaborative approach also promotes clear understanding and creative interpretation of your client’s requirements.

How long have you worked for Meyer Shircore & Associates Architects? About five years now.

What has been the most unusual or challenging project undertaken by Meyer Shircore so far and what part did you play in the project? Well every project has its challenges, they just vary depending on the circumstance. An example of a project I found most unusual and indeed challenging was a fertility clinic I worked on back in 2009. This was an opportunity to utilise the very best of my capabilities and apply the knowledge I obtained from previous experience. I also wanted to prove myself to the directors that I was deserving of the role as Senior Interior Designer. An unusual aspect of this fertility clinic was the client’s specific design aesthetic. The colours of purple and pink was a project requirement and therefore had to be used together and throughout the entire clinic. Our client was also very fond of traditional jarrah timber furniture. He wanted to bring that style of furniture into the offices where there was an extensive use of executive desking, credenza units and storage cabinets. The task of incorporating these colours and materials in an appealing manner and making it aesthetically pleasing to the public was quite challenging. The client was also keen on sourcing furniture from China. This was a domain I had not entered before and was reluctant to undertake due to the unknown level of quality and durability of the products, the logistics involved if the product is faulty or gets damaged through transit and the warranties (if any). In light of this, the resulting fitout worked out well and the client was very pleased with the end result.

What does your busy day to day role involve? My role as Senior Interior Designer is to manage the interior design team and coordinate all design functions on projects which include client liaison, concept development, documentation and project delivery. My responsibilities involve concise decision making and problem solving, two important skills when addressing all design related matters. Most of the projects I have undertaken involve different objectives due to the scope of work, the scale of the project, the client’s requirements and the available budget. A typical project usually entails a series of meetings with the client to discuss their requirements and ideas, developing a design that caters their needs, recommending appropriate colours and materials to achieve their vision and desired outcomes. Part of my role also involves preparing cost estimates for the client which is important in the initial stages of each project. Coordinating the project from conception to completion is crucial in achieving the project’s objective. At my level, the role not only involves managing the design team but also fostering the confidence in each team member and providing support when times are challenging. Are clients generally happy to go along with your advice? Yes, absolutely. Some of our clients already have an understanding 22 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

THE BUILDERS CHOICE SURĂ€ OH

How would you best describe yourself? Well I have a tendency of being a perfectionist when it comes to my work, I suppose it is driven from my passion toward art and design. I am in my element when I have the opportunity to be creative and produce something that is innovative. I also strive to do the best I can in everything I do and it’s most rewarding when you fulfill the project criteria and meet the clients expectations. When you receive positive feedback from the client, your directors and even your peers, you feel a great sense of assurance and achievement. I believe the best of my work is driven from the heart and soul and that’s through embracing your inner knowledge and nurturing your capabilities as a professional. Above all else other than my passion for design, I do have a fondness for fine food, soulful music, great company and some R&R for the mind, body and spirit. What projects you are working on? One project I’m currently working on is Leeway Group’s new office in Joondalup. It’s a small scale office and my main focus with this fitout is attention to detail, cohesion between elements and a sophisticated use of materials such as reconstituted stone, textured acrylic and sculptured resin panels for feature walls. Genesis Heart Care is another project which is located in the new St John of God Wexford Medical Centre in Murdoch. Genesis required a new clinic to facilitate the expansion of the company and to meet the demands of the medical industry. The conceptual design for this project is centred on a neutral colour palette consisting of natural timber veneers, plush carpet and comfortable seating. The intent is to exude a warm and friendly environment for the patients and staff. What do you think is the future of architects and design? Well I can certainly see a transition in the way clients prefer the general operation of their workspace. I believe there is a demand for more open planning where the directors can integrate with the staff, they can feel part of the company and not separated into small offices where there’s a hierarchal barrier. The open space offers each staff member the opportunity to connect on similar levels regardless of their position within the company. This does not apply to everyone, however there is a definite push for more collaborative work environments. I think it is important for the designer to acknowledge this common thread in today’s market as it affects both the aesthetics and functionality of each interior fitout. I have also found that clients are more open to freer exploration of design elements and materials that are not commonly used in a commercial office. If it makes the workspace more inviting and appealing for the staff, then the client is willing to embrace your innovative ideas and invest into the overall design aesthetic. Another main focus in our industry is sustainable design. There is great level of awareness and encouragement to use eco-certified materials such as eco wool for upholstery fabric, sheet vinyl flooring made from natural raw materials and modular carpet tiles comprising of 100% recycled nylon fibres and recycled vinyl material in the backing. These environmental products are becoming more accessible and affordable to the market and I feel confident in specifying these products. I have also gained a better understanding in sustainable design and all its benefits toward the environment. Through this knowledge, I have specified a great deal of eco materials in the past and will continue to specify for future projects. BC

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 23

up close + personal with PROFILE

carmelo princiotto CEO – JAMEL GLOBAL GROUP // interviewed by rocky amatulli

Tell us about Jamel Jamel started in late 1992, mostly focusing on designing and manufacturing furniture, along with some kitchens. Firstly, we went Australia-wide, then in 2007 we began working in Dubai and China in both retail and manufacturing. We now have three divisions - kitchens/cabinetry, furniture and imports. We currently employ 50 staff in Perth producing kitchens and furniture. We specialise in custom work, for example bathrooms, laundries, home theatres, boardrooms, offices and desks for commercial, residential homes and apartments. Jamel is capable of producing any style of furniture or kitchen/cabinetry to a client’s specification, and for both indoor and outdoor use. Our tradespeople who work at our Wangara factories are the best of the industry’s skilled craftsmen. Tell us about yourself I am married and have three children - Mel Jnr 21, Alex 19 and Isabella 17. I have been married for 22 years to Julie, whom I met at the age of 18 when we joined a band together. Both our sons work at our Jamel head office in Wangara, in sales and production, and Julie works in accounts – so as you can see, we are well and truly a family business. How did you get into your industry? I started woodwork in Year 9 and at 14 years of age I knew I wanted to work with wood and design my own products. I started my trade as a cabinetmaker when I turned 15. When I was 22, I started Jamel from a garage. Twenty-two years later our products are distributed worldwide. 24 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

What are your roles at Jamel? My day-to-day work focuses on predicting and establishing our future direction in the areas of designing/branding, and manufacturing/production methods. I also like to mentor the new and up-and-coming management as well as ensuring Australian manufacturing stays alive. What projects do you get involved in and which do you enjoy most? I personally enjoy custom designed projects that involve a high level of detail, like curves and detailed paintwork. But in saying that, we also take great pride and care in each and every piece of work we produce – from the smallest to the largest being manufactured. Design and architectural challenges also keep us sharp. Making sure that a client loves their space, and the products we provide in it, is where I get my buzz. Where do you draw some of your main inspirations from? From a number of sources - nature, fashion, architecture and travelling internationally. I always attend shows and exhibitions in Italy and find that inspiring and motivating. Are there any challenges involved in the projects you undertake, and how do you overcome them? It can be challenging when sourcing materials in the required time, and the logistics of work in the city with special time slots can add to those challenges. Given that we choose to work on these projects, then I find that the best way to overcome (or at least minimise those challenges) is to have good communication, and to plan well ahead.

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What makes Jamel’s approach unique? I think we set ourselves apart by making sure that we are always trying to understand customers’ needs and ensure we work within their budget. We take pride in the work we do and there are also stakeholders involved which we need to take into consideration. Jamel has a talented, professional and passionate team who are dedicated in working together in all divisions. This includes customer service, sales, design, manufacturing and installation. Our aim is to exceed in our clients’ expectations in both our service offer and in the quality of products we produce for them. What are some of your favourite materials that you have used on your projects? Two products come to mind – both made by the Laminex group. One is Freestyle (used on benchtops). The other is Metaline (used as a stainless steel splashback). The best thing about using these two products is that we can produce the whole kitchen/ cabinetry in our factory, so the overall manufacturing time is reduced for the customer. There is also a great range of colours available in the range. However, my most favourite material that I have used in projects has involved furniture making using our Australian native timbers, in particular Marri and Jarrah. Are there any innovations that you’ve developed? I am proud of our in-house production flow documents which we use to keep on top of manufacturing and delivery schedules. As far as products themselves, we have developed a 30mm solid timber door with modern edges. How the industry changed since you first started, and what have you learnt? The industry has become highly competitive and has advanced due to technology – this affects both how we make the products, and the hardware we offer. I just love the Bluetooth kitchens and furniture technologies. Throughout all these changes, sometimes the older values serve us best, so we listen to our customers, suppliers and staff. Our vision in a manufacturing industry like ours needs to be long-term. For me, passion is the key and main motivator. BC

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COVER STORY

KING

of the hill

Roy Hill’s new Perth office raises the standard for remote mine operation.

TH

E

TE

AM

26 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

// words rocky amatulli

The client (Roy Hill) was seeking to develop a state of the art headquarters and remote control centre for its mining operations in the north-west of the state. This would give the company the capability to remotely control port, rail and mining operations for their Roy Hill mine. Based on successful delivery of a similar project, Roy Hill engaged Kooperman Project Management to prepare a design brief, identify a suitable site, commission a consultant team and manage procurement of the building on their behalf. Following an evaluation process, a site in the commercial precinct of Perth Airport was chosen. Given that the facility was to be constructed within the Perth Airport

Precinct meant that the building height was dictated and limited to Perth Airport and Civil Aviation Safety Authority requirements, and required Federal approval. The client had a strong desire to portray a recognisable and established corporate identity, but the building also needed to have provision for a high level of amenity for operational staff and technology for operations, and incorporate a 4.5 NABERS equivalence for energy efficiency. Peter Hunt Architect was appointed to this project as a consequence of successfully completing a similar facility for Rio Tinto

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 27

THE BUILDERS CHOICE FRYHU VWRU\

at Perth Domestic Airport. Its role encompassed Lead Consultant Full Service (design, documentation, consultant coordination and contract administration). The project was technically demanding and required attention and expertise on a number of levels. It certainly had complex integration of technology, requiring co-ordination of specialist consultants under the architect’s direction. Given the location of the site, there was also the Federal Government’s approval process to consider. Then there was major dewatering of the site due to a 10-year water table spike. And finally, there was the client’s schedule to occupy the building (for

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their fitout) prior to base-build completion. There was the need for specialised acoustic treatment to the roof of the control centre and offices, and equally specialised ergonomic design of the consoles within Control Room (which has a double height volume with a first floor viewing gallery for visitors). Overall, the resultant building conveys a strong and striking corporate identity, incorporating a stone-clad courtyard, reflection ponds, and colours, materials and landscape themes which reflect the location of the mine at Roy Hill and Western Australia generally. It has an impressive entry lobby incorporating a three-storey video wall within the entry atrium. The building has an articulated façade/ cladding incorporating massive floating roof and shading devices worthy of the state-of-the-art technology housed inside of it. The architects selected a durable and contemporary palette of materials to make the design statement and also ensure durability

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Overall, the resultant building conveys a strong and striking corporate identity, incorporating a stone-clad courtyard, reflection ponds, and colours, materials and landscape themes which reflect the location of the mine at Roy Hill.

and low maintenance for the structure. They specified high performance double glazing, proprietary cladding systems such as zinc, and Alpolic and Simonite composite cladding for the exterior. Design and manufacture even went as far as the supply of a bespoke carpet tile design to express the colours of the Pilbara gorges and the Roy Hill mine. Following an Expression of Interest submission, Perkins Builders was selected by Roy Hill and its project manager, Kooperman Project Management, as one of three firms invited to submit a tender for the construction of the project. Based on its tender submission and presentation, Perkins was appointed managing contractor for the project in August 2011, with construction commencing in May 2012. As the managing contractor, Perkins assisted the project manager and the design team to finalise the design and ‘‘target price’’, prepared subcontract and supply tender packages, called/negotiated/let tender packages, converted the target price to a fixed price, provided construction programming, managed/coordinated/supervised construction, provided OHS & E management plans, and liaised with and met the requirements of Perth Airport Pty Ltd (PAPL) and the Airport Building Controller who were the Construction Authority for the project. As a result, Perkins needed to prepare comprehensive environmental, safety and construction management plans and submit them to PAPL prior to construction commencing in May 2012. Approval also needed to be obtained from PAPL on a regular basis throughout the construction period for all excavations, crane lifts and hot work. During the project’s final design phase, a major issue was identified by Perkins in terms of the cost of dewatering - which was estimated to be in excess of $1 million. To reduce this cost, BPA Engineering (the project’s structural and civil engineers) suggested replacing the project’s conventional column base design with a ‘‘thin’’ raft design. This raised the dewatering drawdown depth by 600mm with only a minor increase in construction cost, resulting in a significant saving to the project budget. Perkins contracted dewatering specialists, Mobile Dewatering, to devise a dewatering management plan, and MDW Environmental Services to prepare a dewatering environmental management plan to meet the requirements of PAPL. The plan entailed the construction of temporary settlement and infiltration ponds on adjacent land (resulting in minimal water quantities being discharged to stormwater), and with the re-infiltration of water extracted from the site to adjacent land (minimising environmental

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CARPET FORCE C O M M E R C I A L

impacts on local wetlands). Just as there were other client-specific requirements on the project’s architect, there were similarly significant ones placed on the builder. Early handover of the Remote Operations Centre (ROC) was of paramount importance to allow Roy Hill to install its data systems, consoles, screens, etc before occupation of the overall project. This early handover included completion and commissioning of relevant mechanical, electrical and fire services to the ROC. The level of technology integration involving both specialist contractors and the client group required a high level of co-ordination by Peter Hunt Architect, Perkins Builders, and their respective teams of consultants and contractors. This ensured seamless integration and maintenance of programme. Ultimately, Perkins completed the project in November 2013 – some 12 weeks ahead of the client’s originally nominated contract period. Perkins Builders is approaching its 50th year in the WA construction industry. The company is now the largest regionally based builder in WA with 115 staff and a $250m order book. It is one of the top 10 commercial building contractors in the state and operates from offices in Bunbury, Perth and Busselton. Over the past three years, the company has maintained an annual turnover of $150m. The company is currently working on Pinjarra Junction Shopping Centre ($20m), Wyatt Grove Shopping Centre ($20m), Wellard Square Shopping Centre ($15m), NBN Co Earth Satellite Stations ($50m), Aegis Balmoral Aged Care ($22m), Bunbury Entertainment Centre ($13m), and Butler College Stage 2 ($30m). Peter Hunt Architect, established in 1970, is now a national architectural practice with offices in Perth and Sydney, and associated offices in Brisbane and Melbourne. The practice comprises of executive chairman Peter Hunt, joint managing directors Ron Edenburg and Con Lampropoulos, and directors Graham Hunt and Paul Van Niekerk. In 44 years of business, the practice has established a highly respected and enviable track record in many facets of the built

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environment. Peter Hunt Architect has designed award-winning buildings and facilities for state and local government, aged care and health, sport and recreational, convention and exhibition, residential, commercial, institutional, police, correctional, educational, and religious organisations. Peter Hunt Architect’s success is based on a client-orientated philosophy coupled with a proven record of completing challenging projects within tight time and costs constraints. Every project the firm undertakes is treated as a unique design exercise specific to each client’s needs and aspirations, technically implemented to ensure a functional and satisfying architectural solution. To the firm, client

Stylewoods is one of Western Australia’s most respected commercial interior specialists, leading the way in all aspects of commercial fit-outs for over 40 years. Stylewoods are very proud to have had a close association with Perkins Builders & Peter Hunt Architect on the Roy Hill Remote

participation is fundamental in achieving this primary objective. Peter Hunt, as founder and principal of the practice, demands a high level of performance and inspires enthusiasm from his dynamic team, ensuring repeat commissions from a growing number of valued clients. Kooperman Project Management was established in 2006 to provide project management services and advice to a variety of corporate, local government and State government clients. BC Perkins Builders: (08) 9240 7701, www.perkinsbuilders.com.au Peter Hunt Architect: (08) 9322 6033, www.peterhunt.com Kooperman Project Management: 0418 906 945

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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Building for the future Figures show by 2016 the construction industry will be WA’s second-biggest employer. // words rocky amatulli

In 2011–12, the construction industry employed 125,900 (or some 10%) of people employed in Western Australia, making it the State’s third-largest employing industry. The Department of Training and Workforce Development divides the construction industry into building construction; heavy and civil engineering construction; and construction services. Over the four-year period to 2011–12, the construction industry in Western Australia grew by 3.5% (4200 jobs). Most of this growth came from heavy and civil engineering construction (2100 new jobs), while other construction sectors contracted due to subdued conditions in the residential sector. The expansion in the mining sector itself resulted in a sizeable construction program (mainly in civil and heavy engineering). By 2015–16, Monash University is forecasting 147,100 Western Australians will be employed in this industry, elevating its position to the State’s second-biggest employer. This represents an increase of 21,200 jobs, with most of this (almost 14,000) expected to occur in the construction services sector. While this is very strong growth (the strongest of all industries in terms of the number of new jobs and the percentage change), it is worth noting it is off a low 2011–12 base. Future employment growth in this industry is underpinned by the strong demand for engineering construction related to the State’s resources sector and improved prospects for the residential sector. Another function of the Department is to produce a State Priority Occupation List (SPOL) annually. The list details jobs in high demand or considered industry-critical in Western

32 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Australia. There are six primary, State-based indicators used to determine these occupational rankings. They are employment level, labour demand (or over supply), past labour demand (or over supply), average age of employed, employee earnings and hours for full time adult employees, and employee earnings and hours for wages growth. The SPOL is graded in various tiers of ‘‘critical occupations’’. Currently, any construction related critical occupations are only deemed to be on the Department’s ‘‘State Priority 2’’ list (and not its Priority 1 list). These occupations are: architect, construction project manager, fibrous plasterer, gasfitter, painting trades worker, plumber (general), project builder, quantity surveyor, roof plumber, solid plasterer, and wall and floor tilers. Latest data from the September quarter 2013 shows that labour market conditions in Western Australia remain mostly healthier than those nationally. Over the year, the State’s workforce recorded a 14,600 persons rise, equating to 1.1% growth. Although this was the lowest annual growth for the State since mid-2010, it continues to remain above annual growth nationally (of 0.9%). Breaking down the State’s employment growth by industry for the year to August 2013 shows strong annual growth for electricity, gas, water and waste services (up 26.1%, or 4700 more people employed); transport, postal and warehousing (up 12.9% or 7600); administrative and support services (up 9.9% or 4200); information media and telecommunications (up 8.5% or 1200); with construction (up 7.0%, or 8800 persons).

THE BUILDERS CHOICE WUDLQLQJ GHYHORSPHQW

Leading indicators of residential construction in the State remain strong.

Western Australia’s unemployment rate was lower over the September quarter (down 0.2 percentage points, to an average of 4.7%). Even so, this was higher than the 3.9% rate recorded at the same time a year ago. The State’s unemployment rate remains well below the current national average rate of 5.7%. The State’s resident population grew 3.4% over the year to March 2013 (based on the latest available data). This was the highest annual growth rate in Australia and well above the national increase of 1.8%. Overseas migration continued to be a major driver of the State’s annual growth, accounting for 63.3% (or 52,300 people). Leading indicators of residential construction in the State remain strong, with residential building approvals up 7.7% over the three months to September 2013, and by 30% over the year. Perth established house prices rose by 8.6% in a year to September 2013, the second-highest rise (after Sydney) and above the national average of 7.6%. These indicators show

It’s your business to register.

If you employ workers in the construction industry you may be required by law to register in the Construction Industry Long Service Leave Scheme. Find out by visiting www.myleave.wa.gov.au or by calling 08 9476 5400.

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 33

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Workforce development aims to build, attract and retain a skilled workforce to meet the economic needs of Western Australia, to minimise skill shortages and maximise the State’s ability to respond to new opportunities.

a strong recovery in the State, underpinned by record low interest rates, strong demand for property and continued strong population growth. This all means more work for the construction industry. Population change occurs as a result of a range of social and economic factors. Over time, different social and economic situations will feed into the size, composition and distribution of the population. These will include changes in available employment, advances in health care and an overall decrease in morbidity rates. Similarly, changes in population impact on social and economic conditions. Predictions on future population growth, distribution and age structure provide critical insight into the future needs of society and are used by planners and policy makers to help them plan for service provision in sectors such as education, health and aged care. Increasingly, planners and policy makers are attempting to incorporate the concept of sustainability into socio-economic modelling scenarios. Western Australia’s estimated resident population at June 2012 was 2.43 million people, representing 10.7% of the national population, up from 7.1% in 1962. The Department of Training and Workforce Development,

in addition to its vital training role, now has a much broader responsibility which includes a focus on workforce development. Workforce development aims to build, attract and retain a skilled workforce to meet the economic needs of Western Australia, to minimise skill shortages and maximise the State’s ability to respond to new opportunities. The Department will work with industry, the community and Government to build a workforce which is productive, inclusive, and efficient. It will manage public resources in the State vocational education and training system, strategically plan, fund and monitor publicly funded training, and provide workforce development planning, which includes industry and regions and the Aboriginal workforce. The Department will also provide information about workforce development of use to individuals, business and Government, strategically manage the Western Australian apprenticeship and traineeship system, coordinate and implement curriculum and professional development across the training system, and provide career development services. All this can only be a good thing for the Western Australian construction industry. BC

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COMMERCIAL

NEXT generation

in data centres

Artwork and technology come together as WA data becomes more secure. // words rocky amatulli

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NEXTDC was established in May 2010 by one of Australia’s most successful information technology and internet entrepreneurs, Mr Bevan Slattery. Bevan saw an unfulfilled demand to for a national provider of energy-efficient, carrier and vendor neutral data centres, in which organisations can host critical IT infrastructure and selectively source services through a diverse ecosystem encompassing all of Australia. From its inception, this dynamic organisation has been staffed by many leading professionals in the ICT industry, including recognised experts in data centre design and maintenance, software development, as well as customer service management and channel marketing. NEXTDC builds and operates highly reliable, customer-focussed data centres to world-class standards, all across Australia. Its growing national network currently comprises five facilities located in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Perth, designed as much for those working in them as for the incident-free operation of critical IT infrastructure for its clients. This national presence is one of NEXTDC’s main points-ofdifference in the marketplace. Another is its 100% vendor independence. Within its data centres, fibre-carriers and IT services providers – telcos of all kinds, and a plurality of Infrastructure, Platform, Application and Software as a service providers, are free to do business and make connections in the ‘ecosystem’ created by all the different enterprises housed in the NEXTDC data centres. This virtual marketplace is a big drawcard for many of NEXTDC’s customers. Perth was a destination for NEXTDC from day one of the company’s operations. To the company, the opening of this facility fulfils its vision for a national network of independent data centres, which explains NEXTDC’s high expectations for the finished quality of the project, as well as the very short timeframe for delivery.

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 35

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NEXTDC provided: high-level design and requirements definition; procurement and supplier (contractor) management; and operational acceptance. The company has a great relationship with its suppliers, many of whom have been involved in all of NEXTDC’s construction projects. These companies include FDC (who have developed four of its five facilities nationwide); Piller (based in Germany), who provided state-of-the-art Diesel Rotary Uninterruptible Power Supply units (DRUPS) and their revolutionary ISO Parallel BUS control system; Greenbox Architecture (based in Sydney); and the lead consulting engineers, ARUP. On the ground in Perth, NEXTDC relied on the expertise of a range of local contractors. Metro West was the Perth building partner, who worked with electrical contractors Everett Smith, and MPM Group (the mechanical contractors for the chilled water and cooling systems). The main factor influencing the project was the aggressive timeline – going from bare earth to a fully operational site in 12 months. NEXTDC has a time-lapse video that shows the whole process in just over a minute, but in reality the project

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The main factor influencing the project was the aggressive timeline – going from bare earth to a fully operational site in 12 months.

really drove the company to innovate, which it did, with solutions such as shipping in containerised DRUPS. This data centre is the first in Australia to utilise containerised DRUPS, and the first to use an ISO Parallel BUS control system in WA. The prefabrication of a large percentage of the stainless-steel chilled water pipework also significantly reduced onsite installation time. The two containerised DRUPS on the level 1 roof were built and fully factory-tested in Germany before being sea-freighted to Perth and craned into position. This provided a significant reduction is the onsite install timeline, both for the initial project, and in the future as more DRUPS are installed to support new data halls. Timeline challenges also presented themselves around the level of co-ordination required between the client (with its headquartered in Brisbane) and the contractors (headquartered in Perth). NEXTDC overcome this hurdle by implementing three strategies: (1) the use of its established building partner, FDC as an ‘expert intermediary’ to assist in communicating with and managing the local expert builder (MetroWest); (2) the deployment of dedicated staff (from both NEXTDC and FDC)

onsite for the duration of the project, with additional postings as required; and (3) regular co-ordination and issue-review meetings, to ensure that matters were dealt with quickly in order to minimise any confusion, or impact on the timeline or budget. The project involved managing multiple parallel activities, including a high degree of integration between the base build program and the fitout, all of which contributed to achieving the timeline. While NEXTDC was pushing to meet the short timeline, it absolutely had to ensure 100% compliance with the national standard set by its other data centres, and there were many other stakeholders making sure that quality was maintained from the ground up. Related to this was the need to achieve the Uptime Institute’s (UTI) Tier III certification. This is an internationally recognised standard that endorses a facility’s ability to support concurrent maintainability, and P1 is now the only data centre in WA certified for both the initial design as well as the constructed facility. What this means in practicality is that individual plant or parts of the critical infrastructure can be shut down for maintenance or replacement without an interruption to services.

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 37

Ph: 08 9355 0880

The Constructed Facility certification confirms that UTI personnel have visited, tested and accepted P1 as a Tier III data centre, which in itself set a high standard for NEXTDC’s engineering team. As data centres are concerned, this is a very striking and attractive building. The main structure consists of a concrete frame with pre-cast panels to the perimeter at the lower levels, and fire-rated lightweight panels to the upper levels. The office area is also built from a concrete frame with glazed external curtain wall and aluminium sunscreens. Significantly, P1’s floors are reinforced concrete with 14.4kPa floor load capacity, which is much higher than standard-use office buildings, and in line with the Telecommunications Industry Association’s (TIA) 942 standard (Tier 3). As part of the City of Swan’s Public Artwork Policy, NEXTDC commissioned artist Geoffrey Drake-Brockman (through the Artsource consultancy) to produce a work for display on the data centre’s exterior. This work, titled Readwrite, draws on the concept of encoded data abstracted and rendered as a matrix of 24 one-metre-square elements that can reconfigure under pneumatic control. Because NEXTDC customers’ staff will sometimes need to be working onsite, P1 was designed with two floors of dedicated office space available for lease, as well as facilities such as meeting rooms, staging rooms for testing equipment installations, and even a chill-out room with TV and free Wi-Fi. It’s important to note that P1 isn’t just another anonymous corporate edifice; it will benefit Perth by providing an essential utility – neutral IT hosting

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38 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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coupled with telecommunications options. It’s not unlike the modern equivalent of what a new port or rail line means to local business...where new capacity brings new opportunities and growth. NEXTDC learnt that with the right team, and a design that is well thought out in advance, both aggressive timelines and high quality results can come together. The known level of timeline risk at the outset was not allowed to deter the team from targeting a November 2013 base-building PC date, and through

constant communication and planning optimisation that took place throughout the project, this date was conclusively met. This is the fifth data centre that NEXTDC has opened since starting business in May 2010, and it currently has no more build projects underway, as NEXTDC is transitioning from a ‘build focus’ to an ‘operational focus’ in order to fulfil its customer’s needs. BC NEXTDC Limited: (07) 3177 4777, www.nextdc.com Greenbox: (02) 8069 8930, www.greenboxarchitecture.com Metrowest Group: (08) 9416 0666, www.metrowest.com.au

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 39

RESIDENTIAL

North West trailblazers Rising majestically from the red dust, Baynton West Apartments expands Karratha’s housing stock. // words rocky amatulli

Baynton West Apartments are located in one of the new residential estates, 6kms west of the Karratha Town Centre. With a family centre adjacent, a proposed primary school opposite and surrounded by two sides of single-storey residential, the challenge was set. Deliver an outcome that achieved the density and scale required by the clients and the council, as well as appease the neighbours’ concerns regarding bulk, overshadowing, scale, traffic and amenity. Dispersed between five buildings, 82 apartments are on the periphery of the site with parking and communal facilities located centrally to reduce the visual impact to neighbours. The project is notable as it stands in a suburban context - providing a diversity of housing choice over its five buildings, each of which are four storeys high, in an area dominated by one and two-storey homes. It provides options for one, two and three-bedroom apartments varying in size from 57-124sqm. With the apartment market in Karratha still in its infancy stages, it was courageous for the client to develop and deliver a product that was largely untested in Karratha at the time. Apartments that are generous in size and with useable balconies, generating strong rental yields, are hoped to engage the market as a viable housing solution for the North West and help deliver housing targets in the region.

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Hames Sharley was initially engaged on the project to investigate alternatives for elevation treatment for an approved scheme on the site by a previous design team. Rather than simply ‘‘dressing’’ the work of others, Hames Sharley sought to value add to the client’s project by re-assessing the principles of the proposed scheme and explore if there were any other solutions that might provide a more holistic outcome. After careful evaluation and some simple sketch designs it was agreed that an alternative solution resulted in better urban design. This could be achieved by not only retaining the existing yield but by actually increasing it, and public/common space was consolidated and improved so that it was usable and focused. After the revised urban design, architecture and yield were established the company progressed to a Development Application with the aid of pro-active local planners who understood the key drivers for the local council. Post approval of the DA, Hames Sharley worked closely with the entire team at Jaxon (including their design manager) in order to expedite the process to get approvals and get on-site as early as possible. Hames Sharley was the architect and interior designer responsible for the design and documentation on the project. However, being novated to the builder post-DA stage also created some challenges for the project. Traditionally most (if not all) direct contact with the original client was lost as Hames Sharley’s new contractual client became the builder, Jaxon. Having a site with three road frontages and a large setback on the common boundary to the family centre meant that this building was exposed on all sides and needed consideration from all angles. By repeating the same building module and rotating them so that each building addressed the street, Hames Sharley maximised amenity to the apartments with views across Karratha, and improved passive surveillance. Awnings, deep balconies, colour, texture, courtyard walls and soft landscaping soften the building’s general appearance. Another design consideration was the scale of the development in its suburban context. The zoning and the detailed area plan for

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the site allowed the density required, but achieving that density and being sympathetic to the neighbours was a challenge. Changing the scale, form and creating generous open area/view corridors helped reduce the perceived bulk. Deep balconies added depth and created shadow and once the landscaping has a chance to grown another layer will exist and soften the outcome a little further. Achieving variations of scale and form were the key drivers for the external aesthetic. Articulation of courtyards and pergola structures break down the scale at footpath level while colour, texture, low roof forms, large eave overhangs and generous balcony, alfresco and terraces allow the building to have a distinctive look unique for Karratha. Located 1500km from Perth and lacking in many required trades and manufacturing facilities for such a residential building scale, many items were manufactured off-site and then transported to the site. Bathrooms and laundries were sent as pre-manufactured pods (designed to be consistent in layout throughout many of the apartments so that they could be manufactured in a modular flat pack supplied from Asia). Wall and floor panels were pre-tiled and waterproofed and simply erected in place with all plumbing penetrations carefully coordinated by the Jaxon construction team. Being such a remote location also meant that many of the materials were transported to site, so, simple stackable erection components such as precast walls and Colorbond steel were specified. Limiting time on site was a key driver for Jaxon as availability of labour, rates, extreme heat, and supply of materials are all key considerations when building in the North West. One of the main challenges for Hames Sharley was trying to keep pace with the construction program. As can be expected building in an area which has high labour rates, Jaxon was trying to keep the construction as efficient as possible and reduce their time on site; Hames Sharley needed to align its documentation packages with Jaxon’s schedule and issue as quickly as possible so that they could co-ordinate trades and deliveries in line with the programme and avoid any severe weather conditions. Documentation was produced in trade packages and was issued as per Jaxon’s requirement for tendering and construction programme deliverables. Hames Sharley allocated a small but efficient team who took full advantage of its 3D BIM software in order to produce co-ordinated drawings and schedules – this meant that the manufacture of long lead time components such as precast wall panels, floor panels, and modular bathrooms would meet Jaxon’s sequencing requirements. Another significant construction consideration was the location with respect to seasonal weather. Karratha is susceptible to cyclones

which bring heavy wind and rain. Dust drift and extreme heat were additional factors to consider. As a result, Jaxon opted to install ‘‘bunds’’ to all balcony thresholds for two reasons; firstly it was to reduce the amount of in-situ concrete to the Delta core planks; and secondly to ensure water egress into the building was eliminated. Hames Sharley has seen a market shift in the apartment market in recent times, as one of the residential project leaders, Tim Boekhoorn, says: “Appetite for apartment stock has increased but most of the focus is at the lower/affordable end of the market. One bed and studios that range in size from 40-55sqm are the focus for many of the company’s current projects. This means that Baynton represented a turning point for Hames Sharley, where apartments that consisted of generous proportions are becoming too cost-prohibitive given current construction costs. The apartments at Baynton were a derivative of the brief; where living spaces and bedrooms were designed to be generous, a home away from home for mining sector executives or other permanent staff. They were to be comfortable and useable and provide the essentials of modern day living in a somewhat remote environment.” Hames Sharley is a leading, interdisciplinary design practice with a team of professionals actively undertaking work throughout Australia and New Zealand. The company combines its expertise in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, urban design and planning to deliver integrated projects and have access to a wealth of research and knowledge through its ‘Portfolios’ – led by Portfolio Leaders who are highly qualified individuals renowned for their capability and contribution to the sector. Hames Sharley’s Portfolios include Commercial and Workplace; Defence; Health; Residential; Retail and Town Centres; Tertiary Education, Science and Research; and Urban Development. The 2013 BD World Architecture Top 100 Survey ranked Hames Sharley as one of the top 100 design practices. BC Hames Sharley: (08) 9381 0200, www.hamessharley.com.au

Ph: 9351 3400 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 41

COMMERCIAL

Leading the way Pritchard Francis helps deliver a state-of-the-art facility to help in the battle against cancer in Western Australia.

// words pritchard francis // images douglas mark – black photography

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Pritchard Francis is an award-winning civil and structural engineering consultancy built around strong relationships with clients, many of whom are in the health sector. The business has a solid portfolio of health projects and clients across Perth and remote areas of Western Australia. Pritchard Francis recently welcomed the opportunity to be part of the Comprehensive Cancer Centre - Stage 2 project, working closely with HASSELL for the architectural design and BGC Construction as contractor. Increasing demand for radiation oncology services was the catalyst for the second stage of works at the Comprehensive Cancer Centre, part of the QEII Medical Centre in Nedlands. The new facility is the largest of its kind in Western Australia and encompasses two new Linear Accelerator (LINAC) Radiation Bunkers, one new “CyberKnife” bunker, CT Simulation and Brachytherapy Rooms. The centre as a whole includes two floors of clinical services, basement car park and rooftop mechanical plant deck, a total new development area of 6500 square metres. The new development site is directly adjacent to the existing Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital buildings. All design solutions had to allow for uninterrupted function of the existing hospital facilities during construction. The close proximity to the operating hospital created strict access and noise constraints during the works. The Comprehensive Cancer Centre is world-class; being home to the latest in Radiation Oncology treatment with Australia’s first “CyberKnife”. The CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery is a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgery for the treatment of both cancerous and non-cancerous tumours anywhere in the body. The treatment delivers beams of high dose radiation to tumours with extreme accuracy. In response to the radiation generated by this “medical robot”, the design of the bunker structure incorporated materials to absorb resultant radiation. This was achieved in the shielding bunkers through 1.5m-thick concrete walls and 1.75m-thick concrete roofs. Concrete density was maintained at a minimum of 2400kg/m3 to ensure radiation shielding design requirements were achieved. Control of concrete bunker cracking during curing was critical given the concrete thickness. Pritchard Francis established a construction sequence

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The striking external façade consists of a large cantilevered steelwork canopy, white precast concrete walls and aluminum composite panels, providing a fresh and contemporary character. and developed four alternative construction methodologies to manage the curing process. Methodologies were assessed and analysed with expertise from BGC Construction, until the most efficient construction solution was identified. The basement car park is located below the natural ground water table. Hydrostatic uplift was a significant design factor during construction phases. Pritchard Francis considered a number of alternative structural schemes to reduce overall building material volumes. The ultimate design solution incorporated de-watering with the installation of tension piles to anchor the basement during construction, prior to completion of the structure over. In its final form the building has sufficient mass to resist potential buoyancy. Waterproofing of the basement car park presented a significant design consideration for both construction and final operation stages. The design solution utilised a waterproofing additive to the basement concrete slab and walls. The basement roof slab functions as an external podium deck with ambulance drop off access. As control joints in the suspended concrete slabs are often susceptible to water leaks over the design life of the structure, vigilant focus was afforded to all podium joints. These types of issues are not uncommon for the Pritchard Francis’ design team, with our knowledge of these complexities leading to strict control onsite to ensure best results were achieved for the client. The high water table complicated the storm water design. Pritchard Francis’ civil design had to consider a 1-in-100-year flood event contained on an existing site. An event of that magnitude had the potential to cause over topping of an existing adjacent stormwater detention basin and subsequent flooding of existing buildings on the site. Capturing the 1-in-100 event on site necessitated subsurface storage tanks being located above basement level. This provided the additional capacity required to cater for the project and mitigate flooding potential. Careful detailing of the civil works was required at entries to and areas around the basement car park, to ensure storm water flood paths moved water away from the basement. Separate to the civil and structural project elements, consideration

to the spread of infection impacted on overall material selection. Murray Duff from HASSELL explains: “When working with the infection control groups in the hospital you develop an understanding of where materials are suitable and where there is a very limited and an almost prescribed palette you have to use so that you maintain the levels of infection control that are required.” From an aesthetic perspective, the building was designed with the same approach to many new age medical facilities, moving away from the typical clinical feel of the past. The striking external façade consists of a large cantilevered steelwork canopy, white precast concrete walls and aluminum composite panels, providing a fresh and contemporary character. The Comprehensive Cancer Centre has a large glass atrium in the center of the building, providing natural light through frameless glazing and balustrading. The natural stone floors and natural timbers help create a feeling of warmth. It is an appealing design that allows patients to feel comfortable in their surroundings throughout their treatment process. To add to the concept of patient focused design, patients also have the opportunity to be treated outside in the gardens branching off the chemotherapy treatment areas. The approval for this process was lengthy, as explained by Duff, “It was a process we had to work through with the user groups and staff because they’d never considered patients going outside and having treatment done, because they were concerned about a number of issues such as surveillance, access and mobility.” Managing Director of Pritchard Francis, Arthur Psaltis believes: “Our contribution towards developing health infrastructure in Western Australia is one of the most rewarding attributes of the consultancy services we provide. The Comprehensive Cancer Centre adds significantly to our expertise and provides a critical service to the community.” With cancer treatment improvements being at the forefront of medical technology, the innovations used in this specialised building will positively act as an example for future projects of this nature. BC Pritchard Francis: (08) 9382 5111, www.pfeng.com.au Hassell: (08) 6477 6000, www.hassellstudio.com BGC: (08) 92611800, www.bgc.com.au

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 43

COMMERCIAL

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The new Toyota WA Head Office building incorporates cutting edge techniques to deliver a landmark environmentally friendly project. // words rocky amatulli // images silvertone photography

Located in Kewdale, the Toyota WA Head Office building stands out against the light industrial landscape of the area. Aside from the contemporary design, the wind turbines and solar panel instantly convey the main theme of the two-storey office and conference facilities. Designed to the client’s brief, the building aligns with Toyota’s strong commitment to quality, safety and innovation. A central focus of the design is the strong emphasis on environmentally friendly innovations; this methodology transcended through the engineering, design and construction of the facilities. Commitment to this eco-friendly approach can be attributed to the owner-occupier Toyota WA and its parent, the Perron Group. Apart from supporting the development of the $12m project within the substantial distribution centre at Kewdale, the Perron Group specifically sourced Wandoo timber originally used in the Fremantle Wool Store. Over 200sqm of this unique Western Australian hardwood now creates the natural feel of the main entrance of the building.

44 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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A central focus of the design is the strong emphasis on environmentally friendly innovations; this methodology transcended through the engineering, design and construction of the facilities.

Pritchard Francis was engaged by Roxby Architects and Toyota WA to undertake the structural design for this high quality, sustainably focused project. Architecturally the building was designed by Roxby Architects and built by Cooper & Oxley builders. As one of Perth’s leading civil and structural engineering consultancy firms, Pritchard Francis has a reputation for providing innovative solutions for unique projects. The organisation’s focus on sustainable design is one of many facets to their forward thinking approach, which aligns well with Toyota’s vision and objectives for the project. Chris Tyler, Project Director from Pritchard Francis, provided input into the sustainable design, contributing towards the building’s 5-Star Green Star rating. The efforts of the design team enabled the building to achieve its 5-star rating and to be classed as industry leading in its sustainability attributes. In using a renewable energy system comprising substantial 22kW solar PV panels and 3kW wind turbines, the building’s energy consumption is reduced by up to 20 percent. Other impressive attributes include the motion sensor lighting systems and use of wastewater, recycled using the onsite water treatment plant. The Green Building Council Australia has provided Australia’s design and construction industry with a leading rating system, raising the benchmark for prominent sustainable developments across Australia. Pritchard Francis’ Chris Tyler became the first Green Star Accredited structural engineer in Western Australia in 2006 and has since been contributing towards Pritchard Francis’ approach to sustainable design. The Toyota WA Head Office Project adds another major project in a growing portfolio of Green Star accredited developments. Pritchard Francis’ input towards the rating included the use of a pre-assembled steel structural frame and permanent formwork.

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Unit1/ 75 Erindale Rd, Balcatta WA 6021 E: mailto:admin@glasscraft.net.au www.glasscraftwa.com.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 45

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This highly efficient structure minimised carbon footprint and maximised future flexibility. A market leading 69 percent cement replacement was used in all concrete for the project, which is believed to be highest average cement replacement achieved throughout a Green Star Project. “The structural system used incorporated world leading cement replacement which resulted in a carbon footprint an order of magnitude lower than traditional design,” Tyler explains. “As cement is by far the largest CO2 emitter in concrete, using fly-ash by-products from coal burning power stations results in significant environmental benefits.” The 69 percent average cement replacement is more than double the 30 percent requirement to achieve the maximum two Green Star points. This created an outstanding result with the concrete used on the project creating an environmental impact less than the Green Star certified mix. The suspended slab was designed incorporating deep-deck permanent formwork and maximising spans whilst minimising the volume of concrete. It was one of the first major structures to employ the composite decking in Western Australia and

ph: 1800 556 302 46 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

further reduced the carbon footprint of the building due to the reduction in concrete in both the suspended slab and footings. Since completing the project, Pritchard Francis has developed software to calculate the embodied energy of design options. This technology will be used to demonstrate the benefits of systems such as the one used at Toyota WA Head Office, while also achieving innovation credits in the recently updated Green Star system. Aesthetically the building has many structurally imposing features, including the fully cantilevered internal staircase over the administration area and the second floor 6.5m cantilevered executive office located over the front entry. Large trusses were employed to support the cantilever and left exposed internally, dramatically revealing the structure and creating an innovative feature in the main entrance. The inclusion of a cantilevered staircase in the lobby area was controversial during construction, with the contractor questioning the structural adequacy of the floating design. After detailed discussions, the element was successfully erected as per the original design, resulting in a dramatic effect. The element plays a major role in adding to the high quality and aesthetic design of the overall building. External blades and sunshades were used along the front façade of the building to reduce the amount of direct solar penetration into the building, and are aligned to enhance the sensation of movement. The blades were designed with disassembly in mind, giving the client flexibility in case of any damage or other need for removal.

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In an Australian first, Corian was also used for the cladding of certain external elements. Roxby Architects was fundamental in enabling these design elements to come into fruition, with their keen approach, pushing the limits of the design and adding to the uniqueness of the building. Pushing design boundaries was facilitated by REVIT 3D documentation software with a coordinated and consistent model-based approach. Pritchard Francis has been at the forefront of REVIT coordination and design, producing a full structural model of the project allowing detailed coordination of exposed structural elements.

Since completion, the Green Building Council Australia has organised guided tours of the project for members of the sustainable design community. Pritchard Francis, along with other key members of the design team, were pleased to have the opportunity to demonstrate the sustainable initiatives as an example for future similar projects. BC Pritchard Francis: (08) 9382 5111, www.pfeng.com.au Roxby Architects: (08) 9380 4044, www. roxbyarchitects.com.au Cooper & Oxley: (08) 9387 9000, www.cooperoxley.com.au

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 47

Worldly influence RESIDENTIAL

Brian Burke Homes’ latest offering brings the world to Dalkeith.

// words rocky amatulli // images robert frith – acorn photo

Michael, the other stakeholders, and Brian Burke Homes had complete freedom to explore a variety of design concepts.

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Michael Burke explains that his building company, Brian Burke Homes, was experiencing an uncommonly quiet patch at the time that this home was conceived, so he decided to contact five of his ex-clients and asked them if they would be interested in investing in a luxury spec home. They were, and thus began the journey to create a special home. “So we all pooled our money, bought the land, and created this wonderful home together,” says Michael. Consequently, Brian Burke Homes proceeded to undertake the complete design and construction of the home. The house itself generally has a Georgian style - influenced by a walk down Baker Street in London. The balustrade was influenced by a design seen in Paris. The magnificent brick-faced cellar was inspired by a drink in an underground bar in St Petersburg. And the front fountain was inspired by a water feature seen in Singapore. Because there were no ‘‘clients’’ in the typical sense, Michael, the other stakeholders, and Brian Burke Homes had complete freedom to explore a variety of design concepts, use new materials, and experiment with relationships between rooms. Some of this freedom manifests itself through the use of Pyrenees stone from Castlemaine in Victoria, Ironbark flooring, caulked teak floorboards to the Alfresco, and recycled bricks to the bar and cellar. Back at ground level, the home is entered off a Porte Cochere which

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leads into an entry with two-levels above. Double doors to the right lead into a study, which has timber floors, a recessed ceiling dome and built-in timber cabinetwork which immediately set the pace for the home’s interior standard. Double doors on the left-hand side of the entry lead into the living room, which is complete with recessed window, timber floor, marble fireplace and nine recessed ceiling coffers with concealed lighting. The study and the living room have recessed power boxes located on the floors within those rooms for conveniently providing power to furnishings. Continuing from the entry past the dining room (and laundry located behind the kitchen) one arrives at the kitchen. The kitchen is a galley style with its two parallel benches, but what distinguishes this kitchen is that the meals area opposite the servery bench consists of a curved, built-in upholstered bench seat perfect for a (tradition breaking) round table in lieu of the usual rectangular dining table). This upholstered curved seat has an almost nautical feel and look, reminiscent of a luxury yacht. Behind this curved seat are bi-folding windows which open back, connecting the meals area to a landscaped area overlooking the focal swimming/lap pool. Additional focus is given by the custom designed and made sculpture (another of which sits in the water feature at the front of the home). The meals area leads onto the lobby for the centrally located stair and lift which both lead down to the wine cellar and upstairs to the first floor. Even the functional staircase is given

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the sumptuous treatment in this home. The intricate wrought iron to the balustrade and timber handrail and treads on the stairs makes this a feature of the home grand in its own right. Sliding doors opposite the lobby lead to an undercover alfresco area, which whilst technically located outside the home, is completely sheltered and has its own ceiling fan, air-conditioning outlet, and gas fire heater, along with an array of washing, refrigerating, preparing, and cooking facilities and appliances. With a timber floor inlay, timber ceiling inlay, and a stone hearth to the fireplace, this area would be equally inviting on a winter’s day as it would on a summer one. Finally, at the rear of the home are a separate bedroom/ ensuite, the storeroom and garaging for three vehicles, and

additional hardstand which provides parking for potentially another four cars. Below ground level, this home has a 4 metre x 5.5 metre wine cellar. The mirrored ceiling to the cellar reflects the striking feature recycled face brick walls and arches and wrought ironwork. Standing in this room (which also has a cobblestone floor) immediately transports you to another country…or even another era. The cellar is accessible by the stairs (and elevator, possibly for the return trip after a session in the cellar). As a safety precaution, the cellar also has an emergency access ladder and hatch above, so unfortunately for wine connoisseurs there’s no excuse for getting ‘‘trapped’’ in the wine cellar. Travelling back upstairs from the ground floor via stairs or

Unit 3/95 Erindale Road, Balcatta WA 6021 Phone: (08) 9240 7300 Fax; (08) 9240 7044 www.foglianiinteriors.com.au Email: joe@foglianifurniture.com.au or steven@foglianifurniture.com.au

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elevator, the home is divided into two ‘‘wings’’. The front wing contains bedrooms two, three and four (all with walk-in robes and ensuites). The front most part of the upper floor (above the ground floor entry) also has a library. The two-level library effectively adds a third level above ground, and the void over the ground floor entry continues up to this ‘‘third’’ level. The library looks exactly as you might imagine it or as you may have seen it in a movie – with rich timber bookcases and flooring, a spiralling wrought iron staircase, and classical chandelier suspended over a three-level void dropping below. The rear wing accommodates the master bedroom, ensuite, and dressing room – all accessed off a separate foyer. It is fair to say that the master bedroom is large, the ensuite and dressing room are of equal size. The dressing room has built-in cabinetwork which would rival any celebrity’s dressing room, or any upmarket clothing retailer’s store. Between the shelving/hanging/drawer space, and the make up/vanity unit in the centre of it, this room makes a clear statement – although it’s almost a shame that only the owners (and not their guests) would get to see and enjoy it. Fixing some of the home’s stonework (with some blocks weighing up to 25kg) required an innovative solution. Brian Burke Homes developed a stainless steel ‘‘Z’’ angle that was affixed to the underlying brick wall (with the lower leg of the ‘‘Z’’ sliding into a purpose-made slot in the top of the stone below

Glass Opening Systems is proud to be associated with Brian Burke Homes and their brand new display in Dalkeith. A Solarlux SL25R semi frameless glass system has been used to enclose the kitchen and master suite. The Solarlux systems allow you to completely open up to expand your living and alfresco area’s, Solarlux systems are also available frameless and for full height openings, bring the outside in and the inside out, Solarlux is designed and made in Germany, so you are guaranteed excellent quality. Hafele, sole distributor of Solarlux, has chosen Glass Opening Systems as their exclusive fabrication and installation partner for Solarlux SL25 systems.

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 51

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to hold it against the wall) and the horizontal section providing a seat for the stone above to sit on. Fixing the 3 metre-long mirror panels to the cellar ceiling was another such challenge that required ingenuity, as it was done by mechanically fixing plywood sheets to the concrete soffit then gluing the mirrors to those sheets. And whilst this house is very much a home, it includes a few commercial features such as water misting nozzles to the alfresco and a concealed, drop down TV in the master suite. As Michael says: “This home proves that nothing is impossible. Where there is a will, and the determination to achieve the result you are after, whatever you seek to create can be achieved.” And achieve they did! BC Brian Burke Homes: (08) 9387 7333, www.brianburkehomes.com.au

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A century-old city building comes back to (compliant) life.

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// words rocky amatulli // images david morcombe imagery

The city blocks of Perth contain many buildings constructed a century ago. One such building (which actually comprises a two-storey building and a four-storey building) is at 307 Murray Street. The building has recently undergone a refurbishment, creating contemporary offices for building owner Primewest and some additional lettable office space. Architect and interior designer Meyer Shircore, and the client Primewest, were responsible for the vision (and ensuring compliance) for the transformation of 307 Murray Street. The project scope involved taking the building (complete with its many ‘‘refurbishments’’ that had been done over the years) and stripping it back to a shell before rebuilding it to provide the necessary accommodation to the current standards. The existing building is Heritage listed, which meant limitations to the extent of what could be modified or removed. Now, with a contemporary, industrial feel, the new interior provides a perfect counter to the 100-year-old grand building – whilst providing clever solutions to get around some of these upgrade problems in the old building. For example, Meyer Shircore’s solution to lighting provides one insight. Unable to penetrate existing pressed-metal ceilings, some of the lighting is in the form of linear illumination. The extensive use of this type of lighting washing down over exposed original brickwork, along with a timber lined wall opposite, now make the entrance passage more of a gallery space than the dark, uninviting walkway it has been for years.

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 53

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The linear lighting effect on one side of the metal staircase with glass balustrading on the opposite side gives the illusion of a floating stair. And further accentuating and adding drama to the space, a series of George Nelson suspended pendants (from the blacked-out high level ceiling) act as a decorative feature and are the main focal point of the room. The ‘‘gallery’’ feel is taken to the literal meaning on the entrance to Primewest’s own offices. Here, art and sculptural pieces give meaning to a large open room with skylights above. Timber flooring (some of which has seat numbers still painted on it, having been sourced from seating at the now-demolished Perry Lakes Stadium), exposed beams, and new massive sliding timber doors grab the viewer’s attention as they create this office’s personality. With timber being the dominant material, it seems only fitting that the boardroom and meeting tables are made from recycled timber planks – and these sit perfectly at ease with the modern office furniture and contemporary colour scheme. In true Meyer Shircore fashion, even utility cabinetwork (such as the staff kitchen) is given the utmost of consideration and attention, with its ‘‘brick-look’’ splashback tiling, concrete benchtop, and black accented cupboards. Other utility areas such as the compactus are screened with acoustic panels, or closed off with perforated metal tambour units as in the case of storage cupboards. Even the humble toilets have their own identity – with either exposed face brick or polished plastered walls creating a concrete-like appearance. Nothing is left to chance, and no short cuts have been taken. This is typical of Meyer Shircore’s approach to its work. What this does however, is set an extremely high standard for the building contractor doing the work. The project’s builder (Perkins TPD) is a relatively young business which has been developed with the backing of the larger and more established Perkins Builders. The business focuses on projects which may require early contractor

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involvement and hands on interaction with the client. Generally it focuses on large commercial retail, industrial construction or renovation works which are generally within existing operating facilities. Perkins TPD also has a vast experience in the delivery of ‘’design and construct’’ projects having successfully delivered a number recently. Through the delivery of the Dan Murphy’s Cannington project for Primewest, Perkins TPD developed a close working relationship with Primewest. At the successful completion of this project, Perkins TPD was approached by Primewest to assist with options for scoping, construction limitations and requirements, and project delivery for the Murray Street project. Subsequently, Primewest invited Perkins TPD to take charge of the construction and cost management of the project, with a very close involvement from Primewest throughout the build. Perkins TPD was responsible for assisting with the coordination of the design and the overall delivery of the project. Given that there were no ‘‘as-constructed’’ plans of the buildings (and due to the numerous partial renovations throughout its history); a large majority of the building had to be designed as it was re-built. Perkins TPD provided a high level of input into the structural design and upgrade works required, involving a structural engineer as works progressed. Perkins TPD was also responsible for helping set the overall budget for the project with the client, and assisted with managing costs within that budget. “The client had a strong preference to maintain the existing feel of the building while significantly improving the building and creating a modern workplace. The main entry and staircase now makes a huge statement when you first enter the building. The large steel staircase had to literally be built by hand as access was too limited to allow crane or hoist access. The outstanding final appearance of the modern steel and glass staircase alongside the existing heritage red face brickwork is a credit to the architects,” says Joe Graham from Perkins TPD.

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The ‘‘gallery’’ feel is taken to the literal meaning on the entrance to Primewest’s own offices. Here, art and sculptural pieces give meaning to a large open room with skylights above.

“Access became an issue on the project, as I’m sure anyone who has built in a city centre will confirm. All material that came in, or waste materials going out, had to go via Wolf Lane which is just big enough to get a skip truck through. We also had to maintain clear access in the lane at all times. The demolition of the existing eight apartments and one office space split over six levels was a job in its self. Each and every piece of the internal fit out was removed in Sulo bins on a hoist. “Lots of adjustments had been made to the building over the 100 years that it stood - many of them sub-standard in engineering and quality. We lifted the carpets to investigate the condition of the floors and found Baltic pine and a jarrah/plywood patchwork on the mezzanine, level 2 and level 3. Many boards were worn beyond repair or simply un-supported. After failing to find supplies of reclaimed Baltic pine boards we decided to sacrifice the mezzanine floor to restore the two levels above. “We began the slow tedious process of removing the boards. This was made increasingly difficult by the retail store directly below the joists, separated by only plasterboard and a suspended ceiling. As we removed the boards many of the joists were under-engineered and needed an additional 260 x 75 LVL bolted direct to them to add strength and barring,” says Joe.

In the Primewest tenancy (2A) 2 tonnes of steel was built into the existing structure just to take the sliding wall systems. From the scaffold each piece had to be manually lifted in to the building, using mechanic aids used where possible - which wasn’t too often. Reticulating the services was also an issue, with the building often described as a ‘‘rabbit warren’’ given so many split levels and stairs. Primewest didn’t want to see any box outs or riser cupboards through the building, so services rarely took the easiest route. Perkins TDP literally took the building back to a shell with re-wiring, added security, re-plumbing, new AC throughout, 100mm hydrant main with eight hydrants, hydrant booster, sprinkler system, and fire detection - all with no visible risers between floors. Removing the existing elevator and the re-installation caused a few problems with the lift situated between the original timber building and the later brick/steel build. The shaft had to be completely exposed and re-lined to comply with fire certification, including the two levels in the retail store below. The resulting refurbishment should give this building many more years of life. BC Meyer Shircore Architects: (08) 9381 8511, www.meyershircore.com.au Perkins TPD: (08) 9381 4966, www.perkinstpd.com.au

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www.ozsteel.com.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 55

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An environmental A Geraldton development ushers in a new generation of 10-star environmentally friendly homes. // words mark reid

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“Sustainability is a new idea to many people, and many find it hard to understand. But all over the world there are people who have entered into the exercise of imagining and bringing into being a sustainable world. They see it as a world to move toward not reluctantly, but joyfully, not with a sense of sacrifice, but a sense of adventure. A sustainable world could be very much better than the one we live in today,” said Donella H. Meadows. ‘‘Footprint Free on Fitzgerald’’ is an exciting new home development in Geraldton, designed to be the first group of 10-Star, environmentally friendly homes achieving the four major design principles: saving water, saving energy, reducing greenhouse emissions and costs associated during construction and the whole lifecycle of the home. The first of five homes in the group was completed in October 2013 and sold within six days of being marketed. Created by Designrate’s Dave O’Meara and Mark Reid from West Coast Sustainability, the concept of Footprint Free was to offer affordable, ultra-modern living with a dramatically reduced impact on the environment. The home was built based on well-established solar-passive design principles to ensure maximum thermal comfort year-round,

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with no air-conditioning or artificial heating required. These principles include east-west orientation and the use of high thermal mass materials, with low embodied energy content, used on the inside of the buildings to absorb winter solar gain and stabilising internal temperatures during summer. The use of insulation with high thermal resistance values to roof and walls also minimises uncontrolled heat loss/gain and the use of double-hung and louvre shutter windows maximises cross-flow ventilation. Energy and water efficient features and appliances are combined with modern technologies, including integrated interactive communications and security systems making for a safer, family friendly home, all at a very affordable price. The 5kW solar system on the roof makes for additional savings and income when excess generated electricity is fed back into the grid and also helping offset carbon emissions over the life of the home. The home will harvest rainwater from three 2600-litre water tanks at the rear of the home, plus an 800-litre tank towards the front of the home. This water is then stored and purified, providing drinking water throughout the house. The greywater from the bathrooms and laundry is collected and treated through the Aquarius Grey Water Treatment System. This water, flowing through a dripper system from the underground greywater tank, is then reused on the water-wise gardens which contribute to the environmental performance of the home by providing natural shading from the trees and shrubs. In addition to the mandatory NATHERS thermal performance rating required under the Building Code of Australia, the building design for 162A Fitzgerald St has undergone further scrutiny on its environmental impact and sustainable and livability credentials. LCA software is an industry leading Life Cycle Assessment program that enables in-depth analysis of building inputs, as well as design performance modelling to account for both the embodied and operational carbon of a project. A Life Cycle Assessment was conducted by ‘‘eTool� to quantify, compare and improve its carbon footprint during the whole lifecycle of the home. The overall result is a saving of 117% compared to the residential benchmark in the same climate zone, with 400kg CO2e per year per occupant achieved. Adaptable to a growing family’s changing needs, this

home includes separately zoned living areas, integrated indoor/outdoor living and has the most modern technologies available, including security elements to reduce crime and improve the occupants’ sense of security. These features provide flexibility and comfort for people of varying abilities and at different lifestages, including children and people with limited mobility. All these unique features combined add up to a far better investment with a superior resale value than any other

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www.cnmconcretepolishing.com.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 57

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conventionally constructed home on the market today. The key to the project’s success is the partnerships that we have formed with local businesses throughout the building process. It was also important to demonstrate how money can be saved during construction by reducing job site waste and using local materials to reduce transport costs. Careful planning avoids the need for major renovations and reduces costs associated with energy use and maintenance. The website www.footprint-free.com.au was developed to provide on-going information on the build as it progressed. During Geraldton’s Goodness Sustainable Living Festival, held in September, more than 250 people visited the property to view the home, which is among an exclusive club of just a handful of properties in Australia to have earned a 10-Star

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Energy Efficiency Rating. Visitors were also able to listen to presentations given by the designer, the builder and a representative from WCS, detailing the abundance of environmentally friendly features throughout the home, both inside and out. It was at this point that we knew we had achieved our goal, because when you get this level of response, it’s a testament to the community and the market being ready for 10-Star, more energy efficient homes. A significant interest from the public in the breakthrough project is prompting developers to take offers for a second environmentally-friendly home before being built. Up to five homes will be catered for at the site, two green-titled and three strata-titled, fostering similar characteristics as its blueprint; to save water and energy and reduce greenhouse emissions. West Coast Sustainability (WCS) are building homes of the future, which are socially, environmentally and economically sustainable; considering social, environmental and economic factors when meeting the needs of current and future generations. We use well-established solar passive design principles and sustainable, energy efficient, environmentally friendly and lightweight building materials throughout the build reducing its carbon footprint. We believe that we all have a role in protecting and enhancing our environment and maintaining our quality of life and have set out to prove that this can be done through the development of the Footprint Free on Fitzgerald Project. BC West Coast Sustainability: (08) 9964 3224, Mark Reid – 0428 641 264 www.westcoastsustainability.com.au

As the winning tenderer on this Nedlands home, Cambuild adds another successful project to its growing list // words rocky amatulli

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Cam Wilkie’s father was a builder specialising in renovations in Mt Lawley, so it’s no wonder that Cam made his start in the building industry at a very young age. He used to help his father on jobs as much as possible outside of school hours and during the school holidays. Cam says that he always knew that he wanted to go into the building industry so as soon as he possibly could – so eventually he started an apprenticeship in carpentry. In 1997, Cam and his wife Kelli established their own business - Cambuild. Cambuild become involved in this project because designer, Justin Everitt approached them to tender for the construction of this home. The front of this two storey home consists of a double garage and formal living/cinema on either side of the entry – providing a symmetrical and balanced appearance to the ground floor from the street. Progressing through the home from the entry, the left

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hand side of the home comprises of a store, gym, laundry and scullery, before the kitchen and dining areas towards the rear of the home. On the opposite side, the layout consists of a powder room, guest/games room, family and finally the sunken living opposite the kitchen and dining areas. The sunken living area overlooks the alfresco area which is accessed from the dining area. The home also has a pool and water feature. Centrally located, you encounter the gently curved staircase which leads to the upper floor. On this floor are situated a large master suite/walk in robe/ensuite combination, three bedrooms and a bathroom, a store, and a large study and retreat. Connecting the two levels of the home are a void over the entry, and another void over the curved staircase. The curved staircase itself shines as a feature – complete with its custom made raking timber and steel, and curved glass infill balustrade panels. The home is finished in soft tones internally, with interest and

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accent added via some contrasting cabinetwork I the kitchen and ensuite, or feature mosaic splashback tiles to the whole wall behind the vanity mirror. This bestows a relaxing, calming atmosphere on the interior of the home. It also accentuates where attention to detail is required, and where Cambuild is able to deliver on this requirement. The work which Cambuilld was responsible for includes the extensive use of timber (prominent in the upstairs flooring and staircase handrails), glass, gloss tiled floor (to various areas downstairs), and the feature mosaic in bathrooms and around the pool. As the home is built to be functional for a growing family, it integrates great entertaining spaces both inside and outside, and connects to the garden and landscaping seamlessly. It was some task to take advantage of the entire site, considering the 1012sqm undulating block, which required considerable retaining to make the house design work. In fact, many designers and builders focus most of their attention on the home and construction, but Cam Wilkie openly lets his client know that block selection is also important – particularly given that many people who choose to have a home designed and built usually select their block well before they even start to consider talking to a builder.

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“When you are looking for a block of land to build your new custom designed home on, it can be difficult knowing which blocks are good and which ones you should pass on. When selecting your block, there are a number of important factors to consider such as location, orientation and size. The wrong block can significantly increase building costs and eat into your budget unnecessarily. That’s why we’re happy to help you choose the perfect block of land for you�, says Cam. “Each block is unique, and

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can present unique opportunities or conversely, unique problems�. “At Cambuild we certainly focus on luxury and quality – the quality of our customer care, workmanship, design and materials. While some ‘custom home builders’ in Perth work from a standard selection of two-storey home plans that they modify for each client, I believe that each of our clients are all different. Consequently, we develop individual dream home solutions that fulfil their specific requirements and wants. Each of our custom-built luxury home projects is an individual journey – a journey to a destination that’s defined by our client.� Specialising in exclusive custom homes, Cambuild are both a designer and a builder. This means that the company is able to provide its clients with everything they need upfront - a detailed architectural concept and a complete and accurate builder’s quotation. Since the company’s inception in 1997, Cambuild’s business has grown through referrals from many delighted clients. Managing Director Cam Wilkie, personally oversees every project, ensuring his hand-picked team of craftsmen maintain the highest quality workmanship – quality that defines a Cambuild home – and becomes the standard for someone’s new residence. The attention to detail that is poured into each and every home by Cam has allowed Cambuild to gain the reputation of being one of Perth’s finest home builders. This reputation is a result of an authentic work environment; Cambuild’s staff work tirelessly as a team to create memorable lifestyles through individually crafted, beautiful functional homes that far exceed all expectations. The company currently has homes under construction in City Beach, Claremont...and Mount Lawley where Cam’s career started with his father all those years ago! BC Cambuild: (08) 9244 8522, www.cambuild.com.au

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Ph:  9351  3400 62 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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up close + personal with

peter romiti DESIGNER, CAMBUILD // interviewed by rocky amatulli

Tell us a little about yourself, and how you got into your industry? I fell into Cambuild as a draftsman straight out from studies, but I think that I was born and bred to be in the luxury, custom-built home market from day dot. Tell us about Cambuild? Cambuild is a custom residential builder; we build new custom-designed homes and also do large renovations. We are known for our seamless renovations. You simply can’t tell where the existing home finishes and new home begins with them. What do you do at Cambuild? I am the company’s in-house building designer and draftsman. The beauty of this role is that I document the drawings tailored to our preferred construction methods so that we can maintain the high level of finish that we pride ourselves on. Other roles I get involved in include assisting with estimating, handling sales enquiries, liaising with council, some reception and administrative functions, arranging maintenance follow ups, completing on site measures, and generally being a company ‘‘all-rounder’’. What types of homes you design, and which types do you enjoy most? I am involved in all of our projects in some way, from start to finish. This gives me great satisfaction, seeing through and being hands-on right throughout the design and construction process. Each in-house designed project is tailored to suit the property’s unique orientation and the client’s brief. I must say that I enjoy working on split-level and multi-storey homes the most, especially if there is something a little exciting such as a cellar or other in the home. A home designed to be enjoyed by the owners gives me pleasure in create. Another love of mine is working on and designing a ‘‘well-connected home’’. The future is here, and incorporating the internet and home automation is where technology is driving home design to, and at a great speed. Where do you draw inspiration from? Good home design is about people, so it’s no wonder that I draw inspiration from people who I come into contact with. Everybody has a story to tell. You just have to take the time to actually listen to what they have to say to see what motivates them. I then try to translate those ideas into good design. What is unique about your approach? Being able to be hands-on with the complete design and build process and being able to actively implement changes that need retuning over time to a process or method certainly makes my role more involved and engaging. To me this isn’t the case with all similar companies. As a smaller, family-owned business where our clients aren’t just a number but our livelihood, I can have more influence over the success of their project.

Are there any particular materials that do you like using, and why? Like many people, I love timber (for example in floorboards). I think it is a timeless material that many people relate to. I also like copper, as it ‘‘ages gracefully’’ and beatifies over time. I’ve been specifying zinc, which is adaptable to many profiles and uses. These are age-old materials that can be used in many a modern structure, and in many different ways. And then there’s steel, for its structural capabilities and industrial aesthetics. These alone are a powerful combination of materials, let alone others which are available. What are some of the major challenges in your job? Meeting expectations and budget constraints would have to be the top two. Anything can be built, but at a cost. Building within a cost structure is where the challenge is. On the positive side, this also helps develop innovative design solutions. My other challenges are around dealing with council red-tape - most notably the restrictions in Heritage areas. And finally, any proposed by-law changes which can occur midway through a Development Application. How do you deal with these? By sitting down as a team with the ‘‘brains trust’’ of the company, and talking it the issue and possible solutions. Building is never a problem, just one big series of challenges (in the case of our custom-built designs anyway!) Each home is a prototype, never having been designed nor built before. Having the support of a team all working towards the same goal is a burden relieved. With regards to the council red tape issues I referred to, we have recently set up an alliance with a specialist Planning Consultant who pushes the boundaries of the regulations so we get the absolute maximum from a client’s property. What changes have you seen in the industry since you joined it? The administrative front-end of the process is much more regimented nowadays. The ever-present process of government and council requirements to be met before even getting to site does not mean that it is a completely a negative thing, but it is a challenge to wade through statutory regulations when trying to get a building started as soon as possible. What this has taught me though, is that lateral thinking is a requirement, not just a ‘‘nice to have’’. What are your interests outside of working at Cambuild? I’m into the arts, music and film. In contrast to that, I also enjoy fishing. This provides a great connection that I can enjoy with my father. And in contrast again, I also enjoy reading. This offers me a calming influence, and provides me some personal time for reflection. How would you describe Peter Romiti the designer? A man with an unadulterated work ethic. BC

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RESIDENTIAL

Serenity at its best Averna Homes’ Villa Serene has has a timeless appeal with a contemporary modern twist. // words rocky amatulli

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This two-storey residence which was built by Averna Homes, has a modern, luxurious feel. Averna describe the home’s style and image as “having a dateless, timeless, old-money feel, and with a contemporary twist of modernism.” The five bedroom/three bathroom home is built on a 544 square metre block, and the home itself has a floor area of 458 square metres. Understandably, there were considerable difficulties when it came to on site restrictions, as the block is only 12.1 metres wide and has a 1.8 metre slope away from road. But this is where Averna’s skill and experience triumphed. And whilst there may have been construction delays during winter, the home was built and completed in a period of just over 12 months. The accommodation downstairs comprises of; a double garage; entry foyer; separate powder room; guest bedroom/ensuite; theatre; dining; larder; living; kitchen; laundry; alfresco kitchen; alfresco dining and living. That’s a lot of habitable and useable area!

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More specifically, the elegant foyer (comprising of an oversized cedar pivot door, full height windows and a feature wall of Toodyay Stone) provides an immediate feeling of expansive luxury. The curved wall of the entry passage conceals the presence of the home theatre while inviting you to explore the more casual living areas which extend out to a fully fitted alfresco and floating deck. Villa Serene’s mood has been achieved through the introduction of warm via the extensive use of natural materials such as stone and timber. This lavish timber panelling and stonework remind one of a luxury hotel – which is the look and feel that the owners (and Averna) wanted to achieve. The remaining finishes provide a complimentary balance through its neutral colour pallet. This feeling is echoed throughout the home thanks to subtle architectural detail and skilful reiteration of key natural elements. Upstairs, the home consist of: master bedroom/ensuite: custom-built walk in robe; balcony to master suite; sitting area; separate powder room; 3 children’s bedrooms; children’s bathroom. With the master bedroom being complete with its own private balcony, open ensuite (with a long marble vanity bench and freestanding bath) and walk-in dressing area, this again provides a reminder of a luxury hotel feel. The home was designed by Averna with family lifestyle and living in mind. Not only did Averna want the home to be practical and functional, it also had to have a feeling of openness whilst

Ph: 9351 3400

still providing distinct separate zones for family living. Averna say that it was difficult to make the home feel open on such a narrow and sloping block, but feel that they were able to achieve this successfully. The home has lots of natural light and connection with the outdoors; not just through the sliding doors, but also through an elongated highlight and corresponding lowlight window to the conjoined dining and living areas. These ‘slot’ windows also serve to accentuate the wall and built in cabinetwork which they frame up. Notable features on the home are the Toodyay stone wall

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Phone/Fax: (08) 9306 3846 Email: completevacs@iinet.net.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 65

The home has lots of natural light and connection with the outdoors; not just through the sliding doors, but also through an elongated highlight and corresponding lowlight window to the conjoined dining and living areas.

which runs from outside to inside, the custom made cedar pivot front door, the use of full height glass, the curved wall which spans from the entry to the living area, a concealed pivot door in wall to theatre room, the use of imported marble through the kitchen and bathrooms, the custom made walk-in-robe to the master suite, and the wide format decking to the exterior. And unlike most homes which now include an alfresco area with a cedar timber ceiling lining, Villa Serene has a smaller coffered timber-lined feature ceiling inset within a plasterboard lined ceiling over its alfresco area. This achieves two things; it makes the alfresco area feel larger due to the mainly light overhead ceiling, and it accentuates the timber lining. This is a great example of detail – not for the sake of detail, but for the sake of practicality and individually! Averna Homes opened its doors in 2007 - with four staff members, two homes in the early stages of preconstruction, and a desire to approach designing and building of luxury homes a little differently to other companies operating within the WA residential building market. Although Averna Homes

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commenced business a little over seven years ago, the company has already made substantial in-roads into ‘building a presence’ within the WA residential housing industry. Driven by the company’s owner and managing director, Paul Serra, the key to the success that Averna Homes has already achieved is the company’s commitment to create the ‘point of difference’ for any residence designed and built by it. Averna’s focus places primary importance on the three integral components that it believes constitutes a quality home builder - innovative design, superior workmanship and excellence in customer service. With this formula, and limiting construction to a maximum of 30 homes per year, Averna ensures that ample resources are available for each individual client’s home as required to ensure the best possible finished product and personalised customer service. The company has a mission which is embodied in 5 key drivers: to create individual styles of living; to offer value and make a difference; to deliver quality of craftsmanship; to provide an inspiring experience, and; to create innovative designs. As members of the Building Designer’s Association of Western Australia, Averna’s design consultants strive to create bespoke homes which reflect each individual client’s unique requirements. The company creates 3D rendered images as the first step to translating and developing those requirements into their very own home. Averna Homes is a many times finalist and multi-award winner – including winning the Master Builders Awards for homes ranging between $700,000 and $1,000,000, and is the 2013 winner for the $625,000 - $900,000 Custom Built Home category. With the company’s inevitable growth and success, Paul Serra has appointed Paul Spatara as general manager, and sales and marketing manager Jamie Sim to assist him in developing the company to the next level. BC Averna Homes: (08) 9373 3999, www.avernahomes.com.au

RESIDENTIAL

Best face forward An 80s face brick home is brought into the 21st century.

// words rocky amatulli

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At the time of this West Busselton project’s inception, Robert Vis was the designer and drafting manager for Tallwood Constructions. The client approached Alex Campbell (Tallwood’s director) and together Alex and Robert consulted with the client to develop a design brief for the additions and renovations to an existing home. The two-storey home was built over two blocks by the original owner in the 1980s and was a “celebration of brown face brickwork,” as Alex describes it. The clients had a family connection to the original owner and were keen to keep the basic structure but bring it kicking and screaming into the 21st century. Robert was charged with four significant requirements for the project: to reinvigorate the look of the tired and dated home; to provide more space and functionality; to give the home new modern finishes and features; and to take advantage of the north facing ocean views. The first step was the re-planning of the layout. Robert kept the existing lounge, living, kitchen, laundry and bedrooms where they were, however the kitchen, laundry and ensuites were all given a major refurbishment. The most significant change was the addition of bifold doors to the (north facing) living room, and the addition of a massive undercover alfresco area. This area has tiled floors, a timber lined ceiling, and its own outdoor kitchen, but is secured via its own bifold doors at the northern end. Robert also added decking around three sides of the home as a spill-out area. Upstairs, Robert made some significant improvements by converting the games room into a large bedroom/ensuite, the guest room into a bedroom, a small room/roof void into a bedroom

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with ensuite and robe, doubling the size of a sitting room and adding a kitchenette, and adding a large north facing balcony to the extended sitting room. Now, each of the five bedrooms has their own ensuite, with the master suite located on the first floor having commanding views of Geographe Bay back to Dunsborough. To ‘’update’’ the home using modern finishes, Robert selected one material that immediately grabs the viewer’s attention - the randomly laid Yallingup Limestone Capstone cladding. The texture, construction and extent of its use to the home are striking. The limestone is contrasted by the grey Modwood decking and grey travertine floor tiles. Cedar lining has been used for external and internal ceilings to add warmth and complement the pallet perfectly. Other notable features include the waterfall at the rear and the two-sided right-angle fireplace. Of all its features and design elements, Robert believes that the cladding and modern design has “resurrected this home”. He says: “Attention to detail with design, space planning and the high standard of workmanship coupled with quality

T 08 9754 1211 34 Cook St, Busselton WA E: sales@busseltonwindows.com.au

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finishes has made this home transformation stand out. It never ceases to amaze me how from simple beginnings you end up with such a beautiful and sophisticated outcome, all through the collaboration of the client, the designer, the suppliers and trades..…and of course, its builder.” So back to Alex Campbell and Tallwood Constructions. Alex’s first job in the building industry was in a ‘‘two-way’’ radio room of a project builder. According to Alex, this “preceded mobile phones, and was just after the introduction of the motor car”. He recalls that it was an excellent opportunity to learn the pressure of the building industry, its procedures and its methodology. Alex now finds himself a long way from where he started, as Tallwood predominantly builds luxury homes, carries out renovations and construction of commercial projects. Tallwood Constructions undertook the whole project from design development through to construction completion and handover. This particular client contacted Alex based on the referral of a friend. Alex then introduced the client to his designer Robert, and worked with both Robert and the client closely throughout the project. Tallwood’s relationship with the client was very collaborative given that the client respected and valued the builder’s advice and experience. The existing home was a substantial structure with some unique design features which had to be reworked to ensure the completed renovation flowed smoothly and achieved the clients’ expectations and design brief. The home now has a wonderful resort-feel with well-designed communal areas and five master bedrooms, each with their own ensuite. Externally, the ‘‘hero’’ material of Yallingup Field Capstone and the internal travertine floor tiles add to that resort experience, making the home feel less ‘‘residential’’. The games room rear wall has a feature window with a full-length water feature above the window frame which falls into a pond – again harking back to a resort. It is difficult (perhaps impossible) to tell that the home was

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“Attention to detail with design, space planning and the high standard of workmanship coupled with quality finishes has made this home transformation stand out.”

built in the 1980s and has been renovated and extended. When the demolition was nearly completed and Tallwood had started the remodelling, the clients visited the site and observed that perhaps they would have been wiser to have demolished the home and build a new one. “At the time, it was hard to argue with them but we all laugh about it now and agree that the existing home was so substantial and well-built, renovating was the correct option,” says Alex. He says that “the opportunity to work closely with the client and produce a home which exceeded their expectations provided him great satisfaction.” He also maintains however that it was important to speak up and offer his opinion. Whilst some decisions are personal, others can have a dramatic impact on the living fabric of a home and the client. Tallwood Constructions is halfway through the construction of a Dunsborough beachfront home designed by local company, Dane Design Australia. Tallwood is also about to complete a home for two architects based in the UK who visit the site every

two or three months. As technology continues to develop, the world has become increasingly smaller. The company is also planning on launching a range of architecturally designed, affordable homes designed by Dane Design Australia using Structural Insulated Panels. Designer Robert Vis qualified as an interior designer 25 years ago and has worked as an interior designer on residential and commercial projects, including offices, hotels and nightclubs. Some 20 years ago, with the realisation that architectural design is his passion, it has now become Robert’s primary focus and business. As an architectural designer Robert’s practice provides contemporary, sustainable and innovative design solutions within the residential and commercial building industries. Tallwood Constructions still contracts Robert as a designer/draftsman, although Robert also has his own projects within WA’s South-West. BC Tallwood Constructions: 0427 568 214, www.tallwood.com.au

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ph: 0438 911 200 / 08 9756 7735 fax: 08 9759 1901 Unit 4/8 Griffing Drive, Enterprise Park Dunsborough WA 6281 www.naturalistebalustrades.com.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 69

INDUSTRY NEWS & VIEWS

Adjudication: how it works and pitfalls to avoid // words les buchbinder, partner, bowen buchbinder vilensky

Disputes are more common in construction than in most other sectors of the economy. Whether times are good or bad, disputes arise from time constraints, poor workmanship, and demands for payment for extras falling outside of an original contract, to name just a few examples. In the past, traditional court processes added to the problems faced by those in dispute because of the delays and costs associated with the legal process. A delay in resolution could sometimes lead to the collapse of a contractor’s business – which presented a far from level playing field. It is for these reasons that the Western Australian Government passed the Construction Contracts Act (2005) to provide for security of payment in the construction industry through the use of a rapid adjudication process to determine payment disputes. Adjudication applies to both written and oral contracts and also provides for implied terms where contracts make no provision relating to payment for construction works. It further prohibits ‘‘paid when paid’’ clauses in construction contracts as well as excessive payment periods.

Who can claim? A claimant can be: (a) A contractor claiming against a principal; (b) A subcontractor claiming against a contractor, or (c) A supplier of goods claiming against a subcontractor. How do you make a claim? A claimant starts the process by lodging an Adjudication claim directly to an agreed Adjudicator or to a prescribed Appointor. A list of both Adjudicators and Appointers can be found on the Building Commission (WA) website. The claim must be lodged within 28 days from when the payment was due to be paid under the contract or from when it was rejected either completely or in part. Quite often, this means that a claimant will lodge a claim for Adjudication whilst negotiations are still ongoing, to preserve the claimant’s right to proceed with the Adjudication if negotiations fail. The Adjudication claim must set out all of the necessary details of the contract, the claim under the contract that is now in dispute and any other relevant factual information. The claimant must then provide the other party to the contract with a copy of the adjudication claim at the same time that it is provided to the Adjudicator. What if you had an oral contract? Usually a claim for payment for work or the supply of goods and / or services will be made in accordance with the written contract. In the event of an oral contract, the payment claim must: (i) Be in writing; (ii) Be addressed to the other party to which the claim is made; (iii) Provide the name of the claimant, the date of the claim and the amount claimed;

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(iv) If the claimant is the contractor, then the payment claim must itemise and describe the obligations performed and to which the claim relates in sufficient detail for the principal to be able to adequately assess the claim; (v) If the claimant is the principal, then the claim must describe the basis of the claim in sufficient detail for the contractor to be able to reasonably assess the claim; and (vi) Be signed by the claimant and given to the party to which the claim is made. The role of the respondent – and the critical 14-day timeframe Once the claim for Adjudication has been lodged by the claimant with the Adjudicator, a copy of it must be served on the party who benefited from the claimant’s construction work, service or materials (referred to as a respondent ). The respondent must send a copy of its response to the Adjudicator as well as the claimant within 14 days of receiving the Adjudication claim. The Supreme Court of Western Australia recently confirmed that this 14 day timeframe cannot be extended. The Act makes no provision for this and there is no other power to permit it. An Adjudicator must make a determination once the 14-day timeframe for serving a response has expired. If a response is served outside of the prescribed 14-day time period, then the Adjudicator may still consider the response, but he or she is not obliged to do so. If a respondent fails to serve its response within the 14-day timeframe, and the Adjudicator chooses not consider it, there is no basis for subsequently seeking to have the Adjudication set aside on the grounds that the Adjudicator failed to consider the respondent’s position. Consequently, a party that receives an Adjudication must ensure that the deadline for service of a response is met if the claim for Adjudication is to be seriously challenged. How do you respond to an Adjudication claim? If a claim is being made against your organisation, how should you respond? In brief: (a) Challenge any statements or claims that are considered to be either incorrect or poorly described; (b) Make a clear statement about why the claim has not been paid or why the amount claimed is disputed; (c) Where possible describe how the conduct of the respondent relates to its rights under the contract and include any relevant information or supporting documentation. Final adjudication within 14 days When the Adjudicator has received the response, or after 14 days if no response has been received, then the Adjudicator has a further period of 14 days in which to consider the matter and make a determination. The Adjudicator has wide powers under the Act to decide how to assess the claim, whether to seek further information, to invite the parties to meet in a conference and to even inspect or test the work concerned. The Adjudicator is required to act informally and to keep the costs of the Adjudication process in proportion to the value of the claim. It follows, therefore, that where the value of the claim is relatively low, the level of inquiry and investigation by the Adjudicator is likely to be commensurately low. The Adjudicator’s determination is required to set out how much money, if any, must be paid in respect of the claim as well as the date by which the money must be paid.

Where no money is payable under the dispute, the determination may still deal with payment of the Adjudicator’s fees. Fees will vary from case to case but in any event will be significantly less expensive than going to court. If the money has not been paid after the determination, the person to whom the money is owed may apply to the relevant court (depending upon how much is to be paid) to have the debt recovered as a judgement of that court in the usual manner. It is important to recognise that the determination by an Adjudicator is final and cannot be appealed. Sometimes, where the dispute is proceeding through the Arbitration process or through the court, the Adjudicator may decide who should hold the money whilst the dispute is resolved. What are the three most common pitfalls to avoid? I see three common pitfalls in the way that Adjudication claims are managed. The first two of these applies to respondents alone. Be response-ready If a company is making a claim against your organisation you have just 14 days to respond. Under the Act, these are 14 calendar days, not business days. No concession is made for public holidays. You still have only 14 days to respond even if you only receive a claim on Christmas Eve. This is particularly significant in disputes which involve major project payments or where there are significant factual or legal complexities involved in the dispute. As a respondent, it is therefore necessary to take adequate steps to ensure that there are in place suitable procedures for making your organisation aware, as soon as practicable, of a claim for Adjudication having been served and for dealing with it swiftly. This may involve educating staff as to the processes involved and the importance of the timeframes under the Act as well as having contingency plans in place as to how the response is to be dealt with if, for example, critical staff members are absent or there is a risk that a claim for Adjudication may be served just prior to or over a public holiday period or when for some other reason the business may be temporarily closed. Get your documentation/software in order. As a respondent, it is up to you to supply the Adjudicator with a copy of any relevant documents in support of your response. Usually this happens by email. The onus falls on you to make sure that documents are delivered to the Adjudicator in a way that they can be opened and read (compliance with Electronic Transactions Act 2011 (WA). It seems incredible, but I have seen respondents fail simply because the documents they thought they had sent the Adjudicator either never arrived, or could not be opened. If you don’t get your documentation and software in order, your side of the story may simply never be heard. Take legal advice While I hope this article provides a helpful overview of the Adjudication process, the detail of your claim or response is obviously critical. The very wide range of contracts used in the construction industry today underlines the importance of looking at each case individually. The best time to get legal advice is before offering or signing a contract. The next best time is the moment you suspect there are grounds for a dispute! BC BBV Legal: Les Buchbinder – (08) 9325 9644 www.bbvlegal.com.au

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RESIDENTIAL

View from the top Ben Trager Homes makes owning a new two-storey home affordable. // words rocky amatulli

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Ben Trager Homes’ Tinelli Display is located at 9 Hanretty Road, Byford. With display homes all over Perth, the company was keen to have a home in the south-eastern corridor, so it decided to get involved in this particular display village. The 362m2 home represents the pinnacle in design and construction for the company. As a project home builder, Ben Trager Homes offer quality, affordable, two-storey homes. “As residential blocks keep getting smaller,” says Nadine Mansfield (Ben Trager Homes’ Sales and Marketing Manager), “many homeowners don’t want to compromise on the size of a home so building upwards enables them to still have all the rooms and size they need, along with the prestige of a two-storey home which was previously unaffordable to many people. We wanted to design a home that could deliver superior size, quality and finishes without pushing our client’s budget. Taking inspiration from some of the world’s leading hotels, we sought to deliver a design that was stylish yet affordable, and one that would provide our clients with a sophisticated home that the whole family could enjoy.” But the challenge of producing a home with great build quality and finishes is only part of the builder’s role. As a display home located in a display village, there are other requirements set out by the land developer. “We had a strict deadline to adhere to that was set out by the developer. We overcame this by being organised and well-prepared with trades and orders. We had no trouble meeting the deadline in the end,’’ says Nadine.

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The Tinelli features Acrylic Dulux Acratex render to entire home, a Colorbond roof, exposed aggregate paths and driveway as some of its more notable finishes. The home also has a site-poured concrete slab and an expansive cantilevered upstairs balcony to the upper floor, along with lightweight EPS construction to that floor. Internally, it has a sensational open tread timber staircase with frameless glass balustrading, 30mm Essastone benchtops, colour-back glass kitchen splashbacks, and double AEG stainless steel ovens which all reinforce the luxurious feel and look of this home - so it’s not as though the finishes and internal details have been forsaken because it is an affordable two-storey home. The study design, layout and built-in cabinetwork would rival a manager’s office in any corporation in Perth. The same goes for the entertaining unit (a credenza and wall panel above for the flatscreen television) which are reminiscent of a corporate boardroom. From the design standpoint, the size and layout of the Tinelli makes it the ideal home for growing families or people looking for some extra room to move without having to compromise on elegance or quality. The private cantilevered balcony is the perfect place to unwind, relax and soak up the views, while the spacious open-plan kitchen, dining and family areas link seamlessly with the large alfresco area, making it the perfect place to entertain. “The Tinelli is unique because for such a luxurious, large home with a high specification it is available to build at a very affordable price. It is amazing that it compares in price to other homes on the same street that are single storey,” says Nadine.

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“We’ve learnt that Perth home buyers love their views whether they be our beautiful Indian Ocean, a rolling green golf course or the Darling Ranges, so therefore balconies are an important design element for capturing and enjoying these vistas. Many customers don’t realise however, that a quality two-storey home is an option they can afford. Our innovative use of building materials and processes enable us to deliver a significantly better product at a price that was previously unachievable – whilst maintaining high resale values”. “Since displaying a home with a balcony we have shown our customers the quality, finish and size of home that we can build for them - this has resulted in an increase in sales of homes with

balconies for the company. We now intend to build more display homes with balconies, given the demand and response to The Tinelli.” Ben Trager grew up around home building, with his parents running their own building company (which still operates today after 35 years). He started his first business when he was 19, and even at that early age he already had a clear passion for innovation and delivering more efficient, better built, and more cost-effective building solutions. His first venture specialised in developing steel wall frames and roof trusses for the WA building industry, and Ben received national recognition with a high commendation in the Endeavour

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WE’RE LYSAGHT WE’RE THE TRUSTED EXPERIENCE IN STEEL Awards Young Manufacturer of the Year. The awards recognised Ben’s continual investment in new technologies, his ongoing pursuit of more streamlined and efficient fabrication processes, and his attention to new opportunities. Driving innovation is not just about technology – Ben also invests in people. This comes through clearly in everything Ben does. He has a very definite view about the level of the expected customer service and values he requires from his team when they represent the company with his name on it. The company has also an ambitious display programme it is currently working on. With sites all over the Perth metropolitan area that vary from a narrow lot beachside display home in Jindalee to an affordable family home in Golden Bay, Ben Trager Homes can only produce more such winners. BC

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 77

RESIDENTIAL

Savvy and sophisticated Alternative ceiling and lighting help make this home feel like a luxury hotel for the owner. // words rocky amatulli

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Savvy’s designer (a friend of the clients) recommended Ryan Cole and his company, Savvy Construction for this project – the construction of a new home in Ocean Reef. Savvy’s scope included amending the original design, preparing budget estimates, providing value-added engineering, demolition work, construction of the two-storey building, and the external works package (which included a swimming pool and extensive landscaping). This was a turnkey project provided by Savvy, whereby the owners were literally able to move into their new home with everything completed - right down to the installation of clotheslines and a letterbox. The clients requested that their home have a ‘‘luxury hotel’’ feel about it, so Ryan discussed the use of alternative products with the clients early in the project. One outcome stemming from those discussions was the use of different types of ceiling and lighting applications internally – for example the use of suspended ceilings to the living room, coffered ceilings to the kitchen, and the extensive use of strip lighting throughout the home. The main structure is built from double brick with a rendered finish. The home has a metal roof and aluminium joinery which consists of commercial section frames throughout (with the use of louvre windows above the front entry door for cross-ventilation). Alpolic (an aluminium composite panel) cladding was used to the ceiling of the front balcony and the infresco area. Silver travertine was used to clad

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the front façade and on the face of the external storeroom. Externally, there is also combination of exposed and honed concrete for the hardscape. Ryan feels that the home has numerous notable features and qualities - including the build quality. The home boasts extensive built-in cabinetry internally and externally (including a fish aquarium within some of the cabinetry), and has a state-of-the-art surround sound and automation system. There is extensive use of commercial lighting, rather than

simply domestic fittings. All bathrooms have full height tiling to the walls, and two-pack gloss finish to bathroom cabinets (as well as the kitchen cabinets) with these cabinets all having stone tops. A large upstairs balcony wraps around the front and side of the theatre and is accessed through stacker doors making it an ‘‘extension’’ of the theatre zone, and capturing stunning park and ocean views which would be expected in such a location. Clean lines, large spaces and interesting flow from inside the

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home to the infresco (and beyond to the swimming pool and entertainment area) add to the client’s requisite luxury hotel feel. One surprise prior to commencement of the project was the discovery of the existing neighbours’ fence line which encroached 800mm onto this clients’ property. Fortunately the neighbours allowed Savvy to recover the land, as this would have impacted on the swimming pool size and location given that it was to sit directly along the boundary line of the fence. “Although I knew this to be the case,� says Ryan, “even though this was a very large home with lots of unique features, it became apparent very early on that complex new builds are far less taxing on my time and resources than complex renovations. Savvy does around a 50/50 spread of new builds versus renovations, but this was the first new build we had done for a year or so and I found it really enjoyable.� Originally gaining work experience with an architectural company, Ryan eventually embarked on a career in the building industry. That said, having three generations before him (his father, grandfather and great-grandfather) all involved in the industry, it seemed almost pre-destined that Ryan would end up in the building industry. Savvy

Construction now designs and builds new homes, and undertakes renovations, restorations and external works packages. The company is undertaking numerous new projects. One is the construction of a 500m2, five-bedroom/ three-bathroom/two-powder room rammed earth/metal roofed home which will have soaring ceilings and a butterfly roof. Along with its use of alternative materials, this project will be unique. Particular attention has also been paid to the sustainable aspects of the home being built in the Perth Hills and due for completion in April/May 2014. Savvy is also building a four-bedroom/two-bathroom, double-storey brick/tile/rammed earth home which will have a triple garage and in-ground pool. This home is due for completion May 2014. On the renovation side, there is a three-tiered renovation to an art deco home in East Fremantle. The second storey (which is a split-level due to restrictions on the building height) has been added along with third-floor terrace. Major renovations have taken place to the existing ground floor area, and a new alfresco has been added with the existing swimming pool also being modified to suit the renovation. Commercial section window frames have been

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80 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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used along with triple glazing while still matching the existing lead light windows from the ground floor. Bespoke leadlights and gentle curved verandahs have been used to mimic the era of the original home. The home is due for completion April 2014. Savvy is also completing the renovation of a (circa 1950s) Ardross home wherein the client wanted to retain most of the original footprint. The brick and metal roofed home is due for completion March 2014. BC Savvy Construction Pty Ltd: Kerry - 0419 925 718, www. savvyconstruction.com.au

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Phone: (08) 9417 1071 U6/10 Hammond Rd, Cockburn Central WA 6164 www.customisedairconditioning.com.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 81

RESIDENTIAL

Heart of Highgate St Marks combines Finbar’s latest development in one of Perth’s oldest suburbs – and does it with style! T

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St Marks represents one of the two main types of residential developments that Finbar produces regularly. One is the multi-level tower such as the numerous Finbar apartment developments on Terrace Road in the city for example. The other type (of which St Mark’s is an example) is the suburban residential low-rise with clustered buildings and open spaces in between. St Marks is a boutique development and it is only fitting that it sits in Highgate, Perth’s second-smallest suburb. The site of the St Marks development is the former Christian Brothers High School, which operated from 1936 to 1978. It then became a senior high school until 1981, after which it was then taken over by St Mark’s International School until its closure in 2010. Located one street back from bustling Beaufort Street, St Marks sits at the quieter end Stirling Street, close to Forrest Park and only a few blocks from Hyde Park. Highgate still has two other primary schools, one being Sacred Heart, a Catholic school and Highgate Primary School (the second-oldest government primary in the state). Highgate Primary School has students from over 50 different nationalities and backgrounds. The location also has access on foot to some of Perth’s trendiest and chic eateries and shops, which is undoubtedly why all of the 130 apartments in the development

82 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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were sold out even before completion of construction. And as with all Finbar developments, location, amenity, quality and detail are all equal first priority in this residential development which wraps around two sides of the original school building (which has been earmarked for office or educational uses). The staggered-height complex contains rises to a maximum of five levels, and its modern façade and elevations provide a contrast against the predominantly red-bricked old school building. The new buildings are mainly neutral in colour, but have splashes of vibrant accents, which give the development a character and identity of its own. Given the importance that buyers (and residents in general nowadays) place on security of their home, St Marks caters in true Finbar fashion. St Marks offers secure basement and lower ground parking and store rooms (although one could almost dispense with a car if they worked in the area as all other living and entertainment requirements can be met from the adjoining streets). Unlike some other Finbar developments, St Marks does not contain any commercial units on the ground floor under apartments. The commercial use is entirely contained within the old school building, meaning that residents can own a ground floor unit complete with its own courtyard. The development incorporates an audio intercom system for controlling access to the lower ground floor and ground floor entrance lobbies and main pedestrian entry gates from Stirling Street, two remote controls per apartment, surveillance camera system with digital recorder provided for review by the strata

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 83

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body for security purposes, and electronic entry to the ground floor lobbies which also controls lift access to each individual’s floor. This system is also integrated with the carpark gate remote control. Apartment types vary from 1 bed/1 bath to 3 bed/2 baths, and in total, St Marks offers 12 different apartment layouts. As with other Finbar developments, many of the balconies and courtyards are huge, and some apartments even have two

We  can  deliver  anywhere,  anytime  &  on  time Specialist  Providers  of  Ceilings  &  Walls  for  any  situation WA Direct Plasterboard would  like  to  take  this  opportunity  to  congratulate  the  HANSSEN  GROUP  and  the  FINBAR  GROUP  on  a  wonderful  job  on  ST  MARKS  APARTMENTS. We  would  also  like  to  commend  Gerry  Hanssen  for  his  commitment  to  the  future  of  the  building  industry  with  his  continuous  investment  in  Youth  Employment  and  Apprenticeships,  the  lifeblood  of  our  industry.

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www.directplasterboard.com.au 84 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

balconies – one at each end of the apartment. There are the (what have now become expected) leisure facilities (which are not always delivered by all developers) in the complex – a solar-heated swimming pool, poolside furniture, air-conditioned pool lounge, BBQ and sink, bar area, air-conditioned games room, air-conditioned meeting room, gymnasium, sauna and change rooms. Having said that, even the extent of the provided facilities at St

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The new buildings are mainly neutral in colour, but have splashes of vibrant accents, which give the development a character and identity of its own.

Marks are at the better end of the scale…with a 21-metre pool being one example. All this almost changes the status of the development from merely ‘‘residential’’ to ‘‘self-contained resort’’. This is usually the way in which Finbar designs and builds its developments. BC Finbar: (08) 6211 3300, www.finbar.com.au Hanssen: (08) 6218 3800, www.hanssen.com.au SS Chang Architects: (08) 9481 8988, www.sschang.com.au

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 85

RESIDENTIAL

The Eagle rocks The Eagle, a new modular home from National Lifestyle Villages, is the perfect fit for 21st Century “downsizers”. // words berlinda conti

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Designing a modular home that ticked all the right boxes for its clients was the impetus behind National Lifestyle Villages’ (NLV) new Eagle design for its over-45s gated communities. Launched just before Christmas last year, The Eagle is the culmination of continuous evolution and two decades’ worth of research and experience around buying habits of the company’s clients. Today, there are 10-villages located in Perth’s metropolitan and regional areas of WA, with another in Geelong, Victoria. “We have continued to push the boundaries in developing master-planned, gated communities with extraordinary resort facilities, and with this comes dedication and more time spent on designing and building homes that are larger and of a quality commensurate with the community,” says NLV’s founder and managing director, John Wood, who together with subsidiary company EcoFit Homes, oversaw the creation of the home. “We realised we needed to push the boundaries for those who wanted something a little extra-special but we also wanted to design a home that combined all of the most sought-after features our clients traditionally requested in the past.” Mr Wood says the NLV clientele is particularly discerning about their new living environment. “Because our clients are downsizing and have generally been living in their family residences for many years, not only do they know what they want – they also know what they don’t want…

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An artist’s impression of the completed Central Park facility at Tuart Lakes Lifestyle Village. Stilt-homes, like the Eagle, will benefit from the elevation and views this space will provide.

rooms that never get used, big gardens, etc. They are particularly astute about what they want from their new living environment which usually means easy maintenance, without feeling compromised on space and these have always been driving factors in our home designs from the start,” he says. The Eagle, like all NLV homes, arrives at its intended lot fully completed – equipped with all window treatments, flooring, fittings and fixtures and internal and external colour schemes, as well as landscaping and paving. The layout is intentionally larger than the traditional modular residences seen at many National Lifestyle Village communities, but what sets The Eagle apart from its contemporaries is a design based on three transportable splits created to accommodate

steeply sloped sites, common at some NLV developments. “This has allowed us to create a split-level home which is friendlier to the local flora and fauna – we can easily locate the Eagle home onto the side of a hill slope without the same need for major earthworks which can destroy the local environment,” he says. Consultant architect, Richard Hammond, says the splits will maximise winter sun as well as views downhill while providing an efficient layout and generous spaces. “The design follows what has become a standard NLV principle – open-plan with linked, comfortable spaces, good-sized bedrooms and well-considered storage with internal living areas that link easily to alfresco spaces. Importantly, the home is

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What sets The Eagle apart.. is a design based on three transportable splits created to accommodate steeply sloped sites, common at some NLV villages. sheltered from prevailing winds and orientated for winter solar access,” says Mr Hammond. The front door is in a sheltered porch next to a double carport. Once inside, one is led to a dining area with a generous kitchen to one side with a corner window. Also on this level is a second double bedroom with ensuite bathroom and a laundry which has an external door to a service and drying court. There is also a third toilet that opens off the laundry. The dining room links both visually and physically down three steps to a large living room which opens to a generous balcony fitted with a built-in kitchen – an “outdoor room” and according to Mr Hammond, “the perfect place for a barbecue or alfresco dining.” “Upon entering this home, the overall effect is of spaciousness and interest,” says Mr Hammond. The vista through the house runs from the front door, through to the dining and living areas to the balcony and beyond, adding to the overall feelings of spaciousness, and this is aided by the tall raked ceilings. On the lower level adjacent to the living room is a study or third bedroom, and a large master bedroom with en-suite bathroom.

Like all NLV homes, the Eagle is passive-solar designed with high levels of insulation. The plumbing fittings (WELS: Water Efficiency and Labelling) are between four and 4.5 star rated. NLV follows an environmental stance on all of its villages under its Greensteps plan – a development program of incremental initiatives for protecting the environment. The village is also planning a ‘‘central park’’ facility at its Tuart Lakes development which will provide additional scenic views for people living on the elevated southern side of the park. “We have taken the road out, so people living on the southern side of the park will experience no traffic and enjoy views into the area which will have magnificent Tuart trees and recreational facilities within it,” said Mr Hammond. When complete, the park will include walkways, communal barbecue, family centre, infinity pool and exercise stations around it. The three-bedroom Eagle home starts at $494,000. For more information, visit nlv.com.au or contact EcoFit Homes on (08) 9270 6888. BC NLV: 1300 455 565, www.nlv.com.au Eco-fit Homes: (08) 9270 6888, www.ecofithomes.com.au

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PH: 1300 366 511 88 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Ph: 9351 3400

barnstormer

This stunning, sustainable energy efficient rural home is inspired by local vernacular and environment. // words john damant – architect

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Inspired by the local vernacular of hay sheds and farm buildings, this family homestead sits comfortably in its rural landscape. Demonstrating the importance of outdoor living as an extension of the home, this design makes full use of interconnected ‘’outdoor rooms’’ to provide an intermediate space between the indoors and the vast, often harsh, environment. My clients, Greg and Joanne, had been living in Northam with their young family until purchasing a large rural block with the intention of making a ‘’bush change’’ and revitalising denuded farmland into a sandalwood plantation. They came to me wanting a home that would be as self-sufficient and sustainable as feasible, and loved the idea of a ‘’verandah’’ and extensive outdoor entertaining areas that could be used year-round. And they wanted it to be able to be owner-built using local skills and expertise. Their current heritage home in Northam had some features they liked, but was a disaster from a solar passive and energy

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RESIDENTIAL

Southern Brook

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What they wanted was “high ceilings, large rooms and an undercover swimming pool and entertaining area, all in a modern, bright and airy format.”

efficiency standpoint. What they wanted was “high ceilings, large rooms and an undercover swimming pool and entertaining area, all in a modern, bright and airy format.” My initial inspiration came from the local forms of barns and hay sheds in the region, not only for their uncomplicated forms but for their practicality, appropriateness to local skill-sets and ability to withstand extremes (which in this area includes a risk of earthquakes). I also felt that their powerful forms sat well in the vastness of the landscape and would age well with virtually no maintenance. The house is designed in an “H” plan form to allow for maximum cross-ventilation, solar access in winter and to create sheltered ‘’outdoor rooms’’ for entertaining, swimming and relaxing. A children’s wing to the south is linked by family and media rooms to the adults/ living wing to the north. In the centre of the ‘’H” plan is a covered swimming pool (a necessity to reduce evaporation and protect from the dust that could be blown in) linked to a large alfresco with outdoor/wet kitchen. This is positioned to provide the best views towards the dry creek beds and sandalwood trees. The most striking feature of the home, and what gives it a

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unique presence in the landscape, is the wraparound “reverse pitch verandah”. This works like a traditional verandah in providing summer shade and protection from the elements, but unlike a traditional verandah allows winter sun and abundant natural light into the home. The ceiling of the verandah is clad in recycled jarrah floorboards, giving a warm glow to the space when combined with the natural sandstone floor. This space is not only functional and climate-sensitive, but provides a fantastic ‘’scooter track’’ for the children. The ‘’butterfly’’ roof form created by the verandah is served by a metre-wide stainless steel box gutter that collects all the roof rainwater for storage in 400,000 litre rainwater tanks. It also creates a unique profile that has earned the home the nickname “the flying nun” by some of the locals! The interiors of the home are modern and airy, giving all rooms a connection to the outside landscape. The state-of-the-art kitchen is the heart of the home with its gleaming black surfaces contrasting with the silver-flecked quartzite-tiled floors. Floor to ceiling Comfort Plus glazing in a green tint give constant views to the

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changing landscape outside. A nice touch by the owners are the inspirational quotes etched on prominent walls that double as artwork and literature. From an energy efficiency point of view, the home is performing exceptionally well in an often extreme climate. As the owners say “the house maintains a comfortable temperature extremely well, and even though we have installed air conditioning we use it 80 to 90 % less than we did in the old house.” This can largely be put down to the careful planning of the home to utilise solar passive principles along with the adoption of energy efficient appliances and fixtures. Ceilings, roof and walls are super-insulated, windows are low-e glazing, lighting is provided by LED fixtures and fans provide supplemental cooling to all rooms. Water conservation is also key in a largely drying climate, and the home collects rainwater run-off from its extensive roof in 400,000 litre rainwater tanks. Taps and appliances are also highly water efficient, and evaporation to the pool is reduced by being under cover and with a pool blanket. What became evident during the course of the design and construction of this home was the incredible energy and ‘’can-do’’ attitude of my clients on this project. Built in only 14 months, this large and fairly detailed home has been built to a standard that would be the envy of most professional, full-time builders. The end product is testament to their determination and willingness to be open to new ideas. And they seem as delighted as me with the end result. In their words: “We cannot imagine living in any other home, or how any other home could possibly fit as well as this one does.” BC

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 91

RESIDENTIAL

Penny Lane project

right on the money SPH Architecture + Interiors adds value to a site adjacent to Perth Mint // words rocky amatulli // images bunnies/exterior: jasper cook & kat black – vj zoo interior: sph architecture and joel barbitta –dmax photography

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If you should happen to be walking the streets of Perth after dark, and you see a 2.5 metre illuminated rabbit out of the corner of your eye, you are not imagining it. You have, in fact, found Penny Lane Apartments, immediately adjacent to the Perth Mint with the four lobbies signposted in surreal glory by these public art installations. This artwork by Perth based VJ Zoo, is part of an SPH architecture + interiors project, comprising of affordable key worker housing, a three-storey public carpark, communal BBQ and vegetable garden; all designed in conjunction with a consultancy team (appointed by SPH) and the City of Perth. The apartments are aimed at low to middle-income earners who work in the CBD and surrounding areas with rental value subsidised by the City of Perth through various funding initiatives, resulting in tenants paying 80% of that area’s market rate for their accommodation. After winning the tender, SPH set to work with the City Architect to develop the City’s vision for the site then embarked on the process of documentation and administering the contract between the client and contractor. The proximity of Penny Lane Apartments to the Perth Mint presented acoustic challenges over and above the typical concerns of noise transmission between units. The machinery used at the Mint generates vibrational forces through the ground, which could have transferred to

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the new building had a specialist acoustic consultant not been brought onto the team to develop a solution. The result was a combination of vibration pads between the ground floor construction and upper floors to mitigate any potential vibration transfer, thicker glazing to openings and a specific-sized gap between the apartment building and the Mint. Security was a major concern for The Perth Mint. SPH liaised with them with regards to the perceived negative impact of the new three-storey building directly where there had previously only been an open parking area. The contractor also liaised with the Mint to ensure all of their queries were addressed. Water pressure to the site from the adjacent mains was discovered to have dropped significantly from the tested levels during design. As the fire systems were relying on this pressure, SPH was considering the potential use of on-site pumps and tanks in order to comply with necessary hydrant pressure. This would not only have been an expensive option, but a difficult one given that the project was substantially complete at the point of discovery, with not much space on site to accommodate pumps and tanks. The SPH consultant team investigated the option of supplementing the pressure by connecting to the mains across the road from the site. This decision was supported by the Water Corporation; the result is now well in excess of the required pressure. Despite these problems, Laura Albanese, SPH Architect, concluded that: “Time was probably the biggest challenge on the project, with the discovery of asbestos on site leading to extensive unexpected remediation works. This pushed out the construction contract period significantly whilst SPH ensured the clearing of the site was in accordance to strict guidelines to remove all contaminants appropriately.” Environmental initiatives and longevity were factors across the entire project. SPH found sustainable solutions that were cost-effective and would contribute to the endurance of the building. The company chose durable, low-maintenance finishes throughout, including a selection of hardwearing, good quality, well-made fixtures, this benefits both the client and the tenants in the longer term. The building has been designed and built to achieve a 4-Star Green Star rating (Best Practice). SPH is currently in the process of compiling a submission to the Green Building Council of Australia with a view to achieving accreditation.

Externally perforated aluminium screens have been used as balcony balustrading and there is a palette of face brickwork. The public art component has not only elevated the project profile but the bunnies bow tie colour complements the coloured feature zinc cladding at each entry lobby. The entry statements and driveways are identified by charcoal semi-glazed brick. The garden planter boxes are constructed from recycled railway sleepers which break up the space between the public carpark at the back and the residents parking area which only has half the amount of parking bays as there are units. This is a Greenstar initiative adopted by the City of Perth to encourage the use of alternative means of transport. There is also a large secure undercover bicycle parking area available for use by the residents. The interior of the building also makes use of a variety of sustainable finishes, ranging from ECO-8 plasterboard, Forbo Marmoleum flooring and Interface Glasbac carpet tiles. Many of the flooring products selected can be readily recycled and remade into new flooring. The kitchens feature splashbacks cut from large format tiles (Kalesinterflex), making for both an attractive and easily maintained surface with minimal grout joints. The benchtops are made from a Laminex Freestyle solid surface. “We made an effort to choose products that were hard wearing and of a higher standard than would typically be selected for a project of this nature. The company wanted to ensure the units looked timeless and stylish and that they would be able to last the

Turner Engineering (State distributors of Fans HVAC) are proud to have supplied 593 MFP MixJet Inline Mixed Flow Fans in 150 and 200 diameter sizes to Admiral Mechanical which were used for bathroom and toilet ventilation in the Pennylane Apartments Project.

T: (08) 9236 3800 F: (08) 9434 6945 102 Discovery Drive, Bibra Lake WA 6163 www.tewa.com.au

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distance - reducing the need for continual replacement and repair,” says Albanese. Furthermore, the units are not air-conditioned. Instead they make use of cross-flow ventilation on the ground floor (all units stretch across from north to south), and incorporate mechanically assisted ventilation on the upper floors, drawing fresh air through the units at the flick of a switch. There are also six adaptable housing units incorporated into the project. These are units that have been designed to be fully compliant with the Adaptable Housing Standards AS4299 1995, Class C. SPH has made use of a hydraulic lift benchtop and overhead cabinet system to each of these units. This is a product supplied by Enware Australia, through their Care Design range (Indivo). This product allows the resident to adjust the height of both the kitchen bench and overheads via remote control or a button on the bench fascia. It also means that these units can be made readily design code complaint with AS1428.1 by only having to add grab rails to the bathroom – a minor adjustment not difficult to achieve. All of the walls to the bathrooms are constructed using solid bricks to ensure they can take the loads required should grab rails be installed in the future. Albanese, who chose to study architecture after graduating from high school, and has been in practice for nine years as a registered architect, is pragmatic about the project’s extended construction timeframe.

“Always expect the unexpected and be ready to think on your toes. All construction projects have their challenges, but what is important is how you manage those challenges. Keeping cool and thinking calmly often yields a better result than resorting to panic and making rash decisions,” she says and goes on to give credit to the client, saying that “the commitment by the City of Perth to go that extra mile with this project to ensure it truly demonstrates the value of affordable housing in our society” was unique. SPH Architecture + Interiors is currently actively involved in a range of architectural and interior design projects, ranging from commercial fitout, high end residential and aged care facilities through to resources and mining sector projects. One interesting project is the design for the Aboriginal Legal Services (ALSWA) Kalgoorlie office facility. SPH is working collaboratively with ALSWA to incorporate Aboriginal cultural sensibilities into the design whilst still complementing the historic streetscape. The design features discrete outdoor waiting areas and pod-like ancillary service provider offices. The proposed construction material is rammed earth which will incorporate decorative features, to be designed in collaboration with the local indigenous community. The company is also working on Pilbara Institute Electrical & Instrumentation Centre of Specialisation in Karratha for Building Management Works. BC SPH Architecture + Interiors:(08) 9284 1888, www.sph.net.au Northerly Group: (08) 9442 3888, www.northerly.com.au

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94 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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The new Fiona Stanley Hospital provides a new level of healthcare for all Western Australians.

// words rocky amatulli // images nick thake

Many Australians would know of Fiona Stanley. She is a highly recognised and celebrated Australian epidemiologist, mainly noted for her public health work, and her research into child and maternal health and birth disorders (such as cerebral palsy). The Fiona Stanley Hospital, named in her honour, will open this year. Her first job in the early 1970s was in a paediatrics clinic at Perth’s children’s hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, where her patients included thin and sick Aboriginal children flown in from remote western settlements. In 1990,

she became the founding director of the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research - a multi-disciplinary research facility that investigates the causes and prevention of major childhood diseases and disabilities. Fiona Stanley was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), “for service to maternal and child health research, particularly in perinatal and infant problems, and for her contributions to improving Aboriginal and community health� in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. She is a professor ),21$ 67$1/(< +263,7$/

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 95

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at the School of Paediatrics and Child Health at University of Western Australia, and the UNICEF Australian Ambassador for Early Childhood Development. She was named Australian of the Year in 2003. The hospital is in the suburb of Murdoch, and adjacent to an existing hospital, St John of God Murdoch. The Fiona Stanley Hospital site covers the equivalent of four city blocks and includes 155,000sqm of floor space; to put this into perspective, that area is equivalent to two 51-level Central

96 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Park office towers. The hospital is spread over seven main buildings, and has 6300 rooms and 783 beds. The basement, ground level and multi-storey have a total of 3600 car parking bays. Travelling to and from Fiona Stanley Hospital is made simple for patients, staff, volunteers and visitors. Located only 15km from Perth city and nine kilometres from Fremantle, the hospital is bordered by three major access roads – the Kwinana Freeway, Murdoch Drive and South

THE BUILDERS CHOICE FRPPHUFLDO

The hospital is in the suburb of Murdoch, and adjacent to an existing hospital, St John of God Murdoch... The hospital is spread over seven main buildings, and has 6300 rooms and 783 beds.

Street. The hospital is a short walk from the Murdoch bus and train station, which has lifts and ramps from platforms. During peak hours, trains will arrive at Murdoch station every five minutes, and two trains will arrive every 15 minutes during non-peak times. Regular buses will run between Murdoch station and the hospital for those who are unable or prefer not to walk. A bus will pass directly by the hospital every two minutes at peak times and every five minutes during non-peak times. The hospital is also easily accessed by a network of

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For more information, visit www.ebi.honeywell.com or call (08) 9362 9566. Š 2014 Honeywell International Inc. All rights reserved.

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 97

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It is certainly the most complex public tertiary health facility to be commissioned in WA Health’s history.

pedestrian and cycling paths, and bike racks are provided adjacent to the east and west ground floor entries to the main hospital. Street gradients, kerbing, pedestrian ramps, street finishes and shading offer an easy and enjoyable commute to the hospital, whether travelling on foot, using a mobility device or by bicycle. Fiona Stanley Hospital will eventually offer comprehensive health care services to communities in the south of Perth and across Western Australia, plus some highly specialised services for the whole state. More specifically, the hospital will offer a range of services which includes a full range of acute medical and surgical services, the state burns service, the state rehabilitation service, and a state-of-the-art emergency department. It will also have WA’s first comprehensive cancer centre south of the river (including radiotherapy treatment facilities, medical oncology and haematology), renal dialysis and transplantation services, obstetrics and neonatology services, cardiothoracic services, and a mental health facility (including a mother and baby unit). Once operational, Fiona Stanley Hospital will rank among the best tertiary hospitals in the country. It will be a leader in clinical care, and research and education - supported by an innovative design that harnesses the latest scientific, technological and clinical developments. It is certainly the most complex public tertiary health facility to be commissioned in WA Health’s history. Opening a new tertiary hospital on the scale of Fiona Stanley Hospital has been a significant task that involved extensive testing of systems and processes at every operational level. As with all projects of this size and complexity, challenges needed to be overcome and solutions

98 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 99

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100 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

tested. Addressing challenges with the information and communications technology (ICT) is one of the many priorities over the coming months. The October 2014 start date gives the hospital sufficient time to test, trial and bed down all systems and processes to ensure that it can deliver the highest quality patient care when it opens its doors for patients. As one of the most technologically advanced hospitals in Australia, there has been an unprecedented level of work going into its digital and information technology systems. It also needs to interface with the Facilities Manager, Serco, as well as connecting to the state-wide system that the rest of WA Health uses. This involves everything for the clinical, administrative and infrastructure systems - including patient records and medication management, as well as delivering new levels of patient care and convenience. This state-of-the-art technology will be delivered into every level of the building. This use of state-of-the-art technology will deliver new levels of patient care and convenience – from streamlining admission, discharge, bookings and record-keeping to providing video links for doctors and patients – right down to bedside entertainment systems. For doctors and nurses, that means

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Ceiling Manufacturers of Australia, the West Australian agents for Armstrong ceilings, were delighted to be associated with the supply of approximately 80,000m2 of acoustic ceiling tiles to the Fiona Stanley Project. We would like to thank the architects Silver Thomas Hanley, Hames Sharley

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and Hassell, Brookfield Multiplex and the ceiling contractors Ceilcon and NuCeil for there support. Armstrong continues to be number one in the supply of acoustic mineral fibre tiles and systems in Australia and we both look forward to supporting such projects in the future.

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Construction of the hospital started in September 2009 and it has taken approximately four years to build.

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everything they need to know about a patient can be called up bedside on a single screen - patient records, x-rays, scans, medication management and other vital medical information right at their fingertips. For patients, that screen delivers television, movies and the internet to their bed – as well as giving them the ability to make video calls to family and friends outside the hospital. The same system will streamline hospital administration to reduce duplication and provide greater convenience for patients and staff. This is technology that is already in operation at Albany Health Campus which opened in May 2013 and is the first of the new generation of WA hospitals. The hospital has been also been designed for reduced energy consumption, greenhouse emissions and water use. The project won the United Nations’ Environmental Award in 2012 for its sustainable design which incorporates the optimum utilisation of natural daylight, air control systems, heat recovery ventilation, passive solar design and CO2 sensors which are used to maintain comfortable indoor air quality and temperature. Rainwater harvesting facilities and a centralised reverse osmosis water system will also be part of the water conservation initiative at the hospital. The building complex uses low emission paints, adhesives, sealants, carpets and furnishings, and will also feature an elaborate recycling storage facility. Construction of the hospital started in September 2009 and it has taken approximately four years to build by contractor Brookfield Multiplex, at an overall cost of around $2 billion. The hospital’s delivery will be implemented in four stages; Stage 1 October 2014 (State rehabilitation service); Stage 2 – December

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2014 (General planned - medical/surgical, 2-3 theatres, Partial Intensive Care Unit/High Dependency Unit capability); Stage 3 - February 2015 (Other planned and unplanned, Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, Outpatients); Stage 4 - April 2015 (Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Neonates, Burns, Transplant services). The seven buildings making up the entire hospital are: Main Hospital - Housing most of the hospital’s services including outpatient clinics, emergency, cancer centre, surgery, maternity, wards, etc.

State Rehabilitation Service building - Purpose-built for all state rehabilitation inpatients and outpatients Mental Health building - Purpose-built to support short-term mental health patients, including a secure wing and a separate mother and baby unit Pathology building - Housing the hospital’s pathology services (biochemistry, haematology, microbiology, immunology, histology, etc) Education building - Offering training facilities, lecture theatres, tutorial rooms and simulation rooms etc to support

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Internal gardens, courtyards and plazas have been incorporated in to the design – providing a true ‘‘campus’’ feel to the development.

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the hospital, and a resource and information service access including an online library and medical information service Research Facility building - A facility for research located next to the education building, and; Administration building - Housing the administrative and executive support teams. The hospital also includes the Central Energy Plant building which generates power for the hospital. From a construction logistics and quantities standpoint, the hospital has some impressive statistics. Ten tower cranes operated on the hospital site at the peak of construction. The buildings include 5500 tonnes of reinforcement steel, 55,000m3 of concrete, and 425,000m2 of plasterboard. Within the 6300 rooms (860 of which are toilet suites), there are 36,000 light fittings, 50,000 power outlets and 31 lifts. The hospital has 48km of communications cabling (enough to reach from Perth to Rockingham), and there is enough power and light cabling to stretch from Perth to Exmouth (more than 1000km). It has 80km of mechanical ductwork, 85,000m2 of vinyl flooring, 4400 square metres of timber doors, and 9km of wall handrails. There are more than five hectares of natural bush land, and parks remaining on the site. Additional internal gardens, courtyards and plazas have been incorporated in to the design – providing a true ‘‘campus’’ feel to the development. Whilst the Fiona Stanley Hospital achieves a milestone for Western Australian health care, credit should also be paid to Western Australia’s planning, design, architectural and construction industry. BC

Ph: 13 15 40 104 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

INDUSTRY NEWS & VIEWS

New South Perth joint venture secured // words asx market & media announcement

Western Australia’s leading apartment development company Finbar Group Limited (ASX: FRI) (Finbar or the Company) is pleased to announce details of a Joint Venture (JV) for the development of a 2,266 square metre site located at on the corner of Mill Point Road and Harper Terrace in South Perth. The site, which is located in the heart of South Perth’s food and retail precinct, is just 100 metres from the South Perth foreshore and will offer the opportunity to create a project with impressive views of the Swan River and the Perth City skyline. If approved, it is proposed that the existing buildings will be demolished to make way for a new mixed use high-rise building which has potential uses that include office, retail, serviced apartment, and permanent residential. Whilst ultimate yield and design is in the process of being finalised for development consideration by approval authorities, it is anticipated the end project value will exceed $100 million. Finbar has entered into a development agreement in line with

its traditional JV model whereby the land owner will contribute the unencumbered land to the venture, and Finbar, through a wholly owned subsidiary, will contribute $5.75 million as working capital, obtain development finance and carry out the development of the property. Finbar and the land owner will share equally in the development profit with Finbar also earning a management fee. Design works have commenced with the view to seek development approval and commence marketing in the spring, with construction to follow early in 2015. It is anticipated that the project will bolster Finbar’s earnings in the 2017/18 financial year. Finbar Managing Director Darren Pateman said, “We believe that this land is the middle of an area that will see considerable levels of revitalisation and investment in the near future, providing the joint venture with a perfect opportunity to develop a landmark building that will not only provide beautiful views and living spaces for the building’s residential occupants, but also benefit the South Perth community as a whole”. Finbar has been the largest contributor of new apartment housing in South Perth since conducting its first project in the suburb in 1995. BC Finbar Group Limited, its controlled entities and its jointly controlled entities, is a property development company whose core business lies in the development of medium to high density residential apartments and commercial property within the Perth Metropolitan Area and the Pilbara within the State of Western Australia. Finbar Group: (08) 9388 0944, www. finbar.com.au Darren Pateman Professional Public Relations: Email: darren@finbar.com.au Managing Director Belinda Newman: Email: belinda.newman@ppr.com.au

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 105

RESIDENTIAL

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In full flow Boutique builder Azure Construction brought some clever thinking to the table to create this beautiful multi-storey Nedlands home close to the Swan River. // words rocky amatulli // images robert frith – acorn photo

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106 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Described as a ‘‘modern masterpiece’’ by designer Nick Del Paggio (of NDP Design) and Rob Del Paggio and Steve Di Fulvio (of Azure Construction), it’s pretty hard to argue that this home is not particularly when one considers some of the obstacles that were encountered (and overcome) during the home’s design and 15-month construction. The home is on a 480 square metre block in Nedlands, and only one street away from the river. This meant that the water table was going to be high with respect to any excavation on the site…which would not necessarily have been a problem had this three-storey home not had a lift, wine room, cellar, store, and a four-car undercroft garage! In the end (and working in with the lift supplier, Grant Elevators) the only significant change to the plan was how the lift was designed and worked. The home is intended to comfortably accommodate a family, but is also designed to allow any future owners to adapt the living areas to suit their own particular needs. This grew out of the company identifying that more and more home owners want the flexibility to re-configure their home, or at least use the spaces in different ways over time. The ground level is predominantly designed for entertaining and enjoyment. Internally, it hosts functional areas such as the entry, office (or spare bedroom/guestroom) and laundry, but is comprised mainly of a large, open-plan kitchen/dining/family room. By large, we mean

THE BUILDERS CHOICE UHVLGHQWLDO

The home is intended to comfortably accommodate a family, but is also designed to allow any future owners to adapt the living areas to suit their own particular needs.

nearly 13 metres long by seven metres wide. That makes this space around 90 square metres. As if this isn’t large enough, this area opens up to a five-metre by four-metre alfresco. That takes the immediate entertaining area up to 110 square metres. And the home continues to provide more family spaces and amenities outside. It includes a large swimming pool, a sundeck, and an alfresco area with outdoor kitchen which is enclosed by glass on three sides. If we then add in this outside entertaining area, we are close to 200 square metres in total – a little under half of the block area. That is effective use of design and planning. Upstairs, the first floor is purely reserved for the master bedroom/ensuite, and bedrooms two and three complete with their own shared ensuite. That may not seem much accommodation on the upper floor, except that the master suite is nearly 70 square metres and its ensuite close to 20 square metres. The home even has its own observation deck on the roof of the home – effectively creating another level.

Underfloor heating – a popular choice Under floor heating is now a popular choice in many of Perth’s architect designed & custom homes, especially for bathrooms & the main living areas of the home. With the current trend towards natural travertine & stone as well as polished concrete as the finished flooring, under floor heating offers the perfect solution to not only warm the otherwise cold surfaces, but also to provide a subtle, gentle ambient heat to the room. Electric under floor heating can be individually zoned to each room and in most cases be used as a primary source of heating For further information can be found online at www. radiantfloorheating.com.au ADVERTORIAL SUPPLIED BY CLIENT

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63 Windsor Road Wangara WA 6065 P: 089302 4140 F: 08 9302 3736 sales@radiantfloorheating.com.au www.radiantfloorheating.com.au

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THE BUILDERS CHOICE UHVLGHQWLDO

Azure Construction, a boutique construction company, specialises in quality custom-designed homes. Azure’s team has a passion for design and construction excellence, and an attention to the finer details of homebuilding. It is the company’s ability to manage a client’s home from the crucial design phase though to construction that ensures each home will be built to a level of quality finish that Azure believes their clients won’t find anywhere else. Azure’s team of registered builders, along with its building design partner, have more than 45 years of collective experience in design and construction has created a deserved reputation for high-quality work – which shows in examples of the homes it builds, such as this one.

87 Crocker Drive, Malaga WA 6090 PO Box 2087, Malaga WA 6944 Telephone (08) 9249 8111 Facsimile (08) 9249 8222 Email urban@urbanlandscaping.com.au

www.urbanlandscaping.com.au 108 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

At Azure Construction, service is also paramount and personalised to a client’s needs. The company recognises that each home is unique and so its design team guides its clients through the design process, evaluating exactly what each family’s lifestyle needs. Their design is then brought to life during the construction phase. This is where Azure’s team of experienced supervisors ensure that the original vision transforms into a family’s dream home. Azure Construction is a fresh and innovative building company based in Perth. It was founded in February 2011 by a team of highly experienced builders with a focus on professionalism, attention to detail, client satisfaction, and personalised service. Director Steve Di Fulvio is a registered builder with more than 17

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THE BUILDERS CHOICE UHVLGHQWLDO

50 YEARS, 3,000 LIFTS, 6 COUNTRIES. The company manages the process of designing and building dream homes with complete transparency, ensuring that its clients are an integral part of the entire process.

years’ experience in supervision and construction management. He has experience managing the construction of projects ranging from exclusive architecturally designed homes to multi-level unit developments. Steve is an integral part of the construction team and is responsible for taking a client’s home from a design concept into a completed residence. Director Rob Del Paggio is also a registered builder with more than 15 years’ experience in Perth’s premier housing market. Rob’s roles over this period have included supervision, quantity control, project management and contracts administration. At Azure, Rob is responsible for transitioning a home from simply being a design concept, into a structured, managed project that includes contracted terms and project management through to its completion. Both Azure directors believe that strong communication with all of their clients throughout the process is essential and the company manages the process of designing and building dream homes with complete transparency, ensuring that its clients are an integral part of the entire process. They understand that a family’s home is often its biggest investment and they respect the significance of this from the beginning through to the end of the process. Azure Construction manages the complete ‘‘design and construct’’ packages through to tendering projects all from the one office, making the building process as efficient and simple as possible for its clients. BC Azure Construction: (08) 9440 3065, www.azureconstruction.com.au

DIVERSITY, RANGE, STYLE

www.grantelevators.com.au

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 109

RESIDENTIAL

The little white house Shining like a beacon, this home by Weststyle illuminates the neighbourhood. // words rocky amatulli

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This home (on St Leonards Avenue, Leederville) is the private residence of Weststyle’s general manager and designer, Gavin Hestelow. The home was designed by Gavin, and built by Weststyle. Gavin wanted to create a home which had a minimal aesthetic and timeless style. The design emphasised three main things - space, the outdoors and occupier privacy. The home was designed to fit on a narrow 306sqm lot block only 7.5m wide and with a 3m fall from front to back. This presented a series of challenges for Gavin, but the final result is a 310sqm home which is a perfectly executed design for this site. With the narrow width and front-to-back fall, retaining and waterproofing were the first hurdles that needed to be overcome. Being built hard-up against existing neighbouring structures and parapet walls which were 100-plus years old meant careful consideration and sensitivity was required. The solution to this problem involved staged chemical injection to eliminate the impact of large machinery and other piling approaches. Small excavators were also used to ensure that the vibrations were localised and kept to a minimum. The restrictive width of block combined with boundary-to-boundary design limited the methods of construction as well as creating access difficulties for contractors. In order to provide access to the rear of the proposed retaining walls for waterproofing, Weststyle suggested removing the footings

THE BUILDERS CHOICE UHVLGHQWLDO

and stumps of the neighbouring property (as this home was set 1.6m below ground level). Weststyle then replaced them with a superior product once access was complete. Weststyle also upgraded the waterproofing design for the retaining walls to create a failsafe product. This was achieved with a combination of solid core bricks, thicker gauge steel mesh, 50mpa concrete with Xypex waterproofing additive, and corner wet seals (used in the internal junction between concrete and masonry). Another example of access limitations was highlighted during the installation of a full-height glass panel five metres wide and weighing 700kg. A staged building approach with internal scaffolding was utilised, with preventative screening ensuring that the neighbouring structures were not damaged. Installation of the large single-glass panel was handled by a specialist crane operator with the assistance of 12 men to guide the glass into position. Meticulous programming and management of sub-contractors was also necessary to avoid site congestion, restrictive on-site parking issues imposed by council, staged material deliveries, and overall quality control. Waste and rubbish was also tightly managed with a greater frequency of collections necessary to ensure unrestricted access was maintained. By overcoming these issues Weststyle was able to maintain (and improve) the design integrity and quality of the building. Being such a tight and restrictive site, it was critical to exploit the illusion (rather than the reality) of space. This was achieved by drawing focus to the boundaries of the site. The effort to sink the house 1.6m below the neighbouring property resulted in the unusually high internal boundary walls, creating the desired privacy that Gavin wanted.

“...to create a home which had minimal detail but timeless style…”

Quality Cabinetry Design & Installation Exclusive Cabinets & Design, (formerly McFarlanes Cabinets), recently rebranded to provide a full service, quality cabinetry design and installation company. Dane Edwards, owner operator for the past 13 years strives to provide his clients with quality custom built furniture with a keen eye for detail. Now with a great team of hard working dedicated tradesmen, they are well equipped to handle jobs from builders to developers of both residential and commercial fit-outs – particularly those with “high end” expectations. ADVERTORIAL SUPPLIED BY CLIENT

QUALITY CABINETRY DESIGN AND INSTALLATION RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

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Photography by: Adrian Lambert / Acorn Photo & Iain Gillespie

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THE BUILDERS CHOICE UHVLGHQWLDO

The use and installation of a single piece of full height glazing (when compared with the three-panel design) combined with concealed window framing successfully ensures that there is no visual barrier to the external entry courtyard. This draws the eye to the polished concrete boundary wall and large feature entry gate (constructed from 100mm aluminium framing and clad with Alucobond) which are at the furthest point. This courtyard is perceived as an extension of the internal space and is complemented by the black granite reflection pond (built off-site as a single piece to ensure quality workmanship, and then craned into position). This feature bounces light back into the internal spaces of the home. In the opposite direction are oversized custom-made full-height glass doors which have been also been engineered to have minimal obstructions (achieved by producing a strengthened custom-made frame). This draws attention to the large mature trees at the furthest extent of the yard. From the main living spaces in the house, the eye is drawn to these two opposite extents of the property - giving an overwhelming sense of light and space. In addition, daylight from the double-glazed sky windows creates an expansive light-filled entry experience whilst also being energy efficient. Intentional alignment of internal walls running from inside to outside

Ph: 9344 1135 112 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

“In the opposite direction are oversized custom-made full-height glass doors which have been also been engineered to have minimal obstructions...”

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also contributes to the perception of these spaces being linked. Some of the internal walls have been constructed 350mm wide to achieve this impression. The home’s external finishes are generally smooth and modern, using dark Alucobond in contrast to the contemporary white painted surfaces. Strategic orientation of the home and careful material selection reinforce the home’s architecture and form. These crisp and modern finishes are complemented with warm timber features. There is definitely a Japanese influence on the home’s interior and design. An example of this is evident in the layout of the master ensuite, with its adjacent dressing room (with two vanities) sitting next to a ‘’wet room’’ (3m x 3m and incorporates two showers and a freestanding bath). The home has custom-made extruded windows (being only 5mm thick) which project 600mm outside the building with surface-mounted glazing, and three large double-glazed sky windows with 2m-deep light wells above the staircase. The raw-look floor finish continues externally with no change in levels and conceals the window channel to achieve a seamless transition. A minimal central timber veneer box (3m x 3m x 3m) has secret doors which exist as logical panel breaks to conceal many amenities such as a built-in fridge/freezer, generous wine

cellar, glassware cabinet and portion of the staircase. There is also a continuous 15m-long air conditioning linear bar grill. Asked how he felt the project went, Gavin says: “It was a great success speaking with the neighbours prior to construction commencing, and being as informative as possible. This made the building process an enjoyable one for all parties. This is moreso relevant and critical when building sites are very narrow – as was the case here.� Weststyle is a family owned company with more than 45 years’ experience in the building industry. With its own internal design team, Weststyle offers its clients a comprehensive design, documentation and construct service. Weststyle is also affiliated with many respected Western Australian architectural practices and building designers, and has built many outstanding homes for the clients of these companies. Weststyle has entered this home into the HIA awards winning the Small Lot Design category. In addition it was also awarded as a finalist in the Innovative Construction for Small Lots category at the MBAWA awards. The company is currently working on several small lot designs for new homes given the response it has had to this home. BC Weststyle Design and Development: (08) 9345 1565, www.weststyle.com.au

JPP Engineering Pty Ltd

˜ '5+)0 5;56'/5 61 /''6 %.+'065 4'37+4'/'065 #0& $7&)'6 ˜ 056#.. #0& /#+06#+0 5'%74+6; 5;56'/5 ˜ FH *174 /10+614+0) 9+6* 14 9+6*176 # 6'.'2*10' .+0' ˜ .15'& +4%7+6 ˜ +&'1 06'4%1/5 Pleased to be associated with Weststyle Design & Development

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STAINLESS STEEL & ALUMINIUM BALUSTRADING STRUCTURAL STEEL ARCHITECTURAL FABRICATION M: 0407 473 367 jppeng_mbb@iinet.net.au Unit 2 / 6 Lindsay Road Wangara WA 6065 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 113

COMMERCIAL

Monkey see, GVM Solutions do GVM’s successful refurbishment of the Monkey Mia Restaurant extends their portfolio to regional work.

The location and facilities at Monkey Mia form part of a very popular tourist resort.

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// words rocky amatulli

Monkey Mia, some 850km from Perth, is one of the state’s most remarkable tourist destinations, world-famous for its interactive dolphin encounters in the pristine waters of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area. So when Aspen Parks and Resorts decided to undertake a major revamp of its resort restaurant at Monkey Mia, the successful tenderer for the project, GVM SOLUTIONS, provided the perfect fit. GVM SOLUTIONS is a turnkey construction company, helping clients by developing their concepts and design ideas, producing appropriate scope of works, providing full fitout solutions, and offering ongoing maintenance and upkeep of their premises. GVM met client Aspen’s Regional Manager, Resorts and Catering and quoted on doing some kitchen and buffet area upgrades of their Monkey Mia Restaurant. GVM was subsequently advised that this work would not be going ahead and that they would be contacted again when management had made a decision on what they wanted to do in Monkey Mia. Over a year later GVM was contacted again and advised that the project scope had increased significantly and was going to be issued out to tender, and that they would like GVM to submit a tender for the project. After the tenders closed, a few weeks of negotiations between

THE BUILDERS CHOICE FRPPHUFLDO

One of the most prominent features of the completed restaurant is the ability to open the inside eating area up (via the seven new sets of bi-folding doors).

GVM and the client ensued, upon which GVM was appointed the builder. The company was also advised that no additional time would be added to the project schedule, and that works were to start within four weeks of being appointed. GVM’s role was to provide a complete turnkey solution. Working closely with the project architect and the client, GVM managed and coordinated all contractors and supplies (including deliveries of all materials to site). GVM also managed a significant number of project variations which impacted adversely on the work schedule – although GVM still managed to complete the project on time. For GVM, the remoteness of the site and the project schedule were always going to be the biggest two challenges. The location and facilities at Monkey Mia form part of a very popular tourist resort and the client had already committed to reservations for dates post-construction. The second significant factor was getting the trades, materials and manufactured items up to site when required. Aspen also had to make this restaurant and resort attractive to visitors as they were putting a significant amount of money into this project and other projects in the area – so the works were extensive. This was not just a ‘‘lick of paint’’ type project. The scope for the project involved contracting and managing a diverse range of trades, as the main materials specified and used on the project were brick, timber, glazing, concrete and feature tiles. GVM was also commissioned to add a number of new structures onto the remaining building, extending it and providing additional facilities for the comfort of the Monkey Mia resort clients and visitors. As much of the existing building was demolished GVM made extensive use of timber in the rebuilding of the main roof, walls and outdoor deck area. One of the most prominent features of the completed restaurant is the ability to open the inside eating area up (via the seven new sets of bi-folding doors). This enables the restaurant patrons to experience a greater connection with the outdoors…and in particular, the dolphins which swim in close to shore to feed. There are many facilities which have been added to the original restaurant - from new internal and external bars, to a new toilet block, feature furniture, and large outdoor decked areas. GVM director Gareth Richards’ favourite feature was the indoor-outdoor fireplace adding its warm and homely feeling to the restaurant in winter, but also making the outside area (with its soft furnishings) more relaxed and comfortable for patrons in cooler months. The lighting also required massive upgrading, changing the restaurant’s look and feel. This was achieved by adding pendant lights and feature wall lights along with LED strip lights around the bars. Ceiling fans were also added in. The main area that GVM helped the client develop ideas and a final solution on was the flooring. Originally the client wanted a polished concrete finish, but after discussions about costs, GVM proposed an alternate solution called ‘‘iCoat’’. This is a coating

Recent works completed at the Boughshed – Monkey Mia

BEFORE

BEFORE

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Phone: 08 9279 4485 Unit 2 / 113 Broadway Bassendean WA 6054 Email: admin@albec.com.au

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that offers many different textures and colours, and is relatively easy to apply. The product was applied to all concrete finished areas inside and outside of the restaurant. The result looks great (and performs well) and the client was extremely pleased with the outcome. “If there were any challenges that GVM faced on the project, they mainly relate to the short preparation time allocated by the client - which impacted on GVM mobilising the site with the materials and starting works. Sizeable variations requested by the client during the construction also required us to act swiftly when it came to advising the client of costs, processing instructions, and carrying out those additional works. Finally, the remoteness of the location from Perth required constant consideration and management,” says Gareth. “We managed to spread our deliveries out in the early stages of the works so that we could start the project on time (allowing for deliveries of less urgent materials to be done in the weeks following start-up). We managed variations by bringing additional

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labour up to site so that the existing trades were able to carry on with their original programme without the any extra workload being added to their already tight schedules. The location was always going to be a little bit of an issue and flying up was the quickest way to get there, so we had to work in with flight schedules. This wasn’t always ideal as bookings had to be made weeks in advance because flights were open to the public and availability changed without notification. “The main thing we realised after successfully completing this project, is that GVM is capable of delivering multi-million dollar projects, and that our team of trades and suppliers are some of the best in Western Australia.” Gareth has been involved in project management during most of his career in Australia. After leaving the UK were he worked in a telecommunications project improvement office, he worked as a bricklayer in a family business for a short time (were he learnt about construction methods, materials, and processes). Gareth then worked for a local office fitout company. He quickly learned about that industry and used his project management skills to successfully run large projects. After six years, Gareth decided he wanted to take on some new challenges, so along with Mark Ashcroft and Vaughn Roberts (Gareth’s long-time friends) he started GVM SOLUTIONS. GVM is working on a number of new projects, but one of the most exciting is for a charitable organisation. GVM is privileged to be organising the upgrade of a Heritage building and providing disabled user facilities to enable the charity to offer its clients better and more appropriate amenities. BC GVM Solutions Pty Ltd: 0439 522 212, www.gvmsolutions.com.au

up close + personal with

gareth richards MANAGING DIRECTOR, GVM SOLUTIONS // interviewed by rocky amatulli

What is your background and how did you get started in building industry? I am the youngest of five children and was born in England. I have always been intrigued by construction and at three years old used to sit out the front of my house, watch the guys in their large excavators, and said to my mum “I want to drive one of those when I am older”. I also played basketball for a short time professionally and enjoyed all sports in general. I have worked in a project office since I started working and have always taken pleasure in looking after projects and seeing them through to completion. I moved to Australia 10 years ago and have worked delivering fitouts, using my project management skills to successfully run commercial projects. What is your business called and what does it do? GVM SOLUTIONS is a Building Service Contractor offering the full range of services starting from project front-end consultation, right through planning and design works, all eventually all the way through to fully managed turnkey fitout solutions. We have completed restaurants, office fitouts, maintenance work, Heritage building work and many other varied projects - leaving our company with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of our industry and what is required from our clients. What roles do you fill at GVM SOLUTIONS? My role is that I am the main representative for the company, so I deal with sales appointments, and manage the general day to day running of the business. Given the variety of jobs you undertake, what types of projects do you enjoy most? You are correct - GVM SOLUTIONS is involved in building maintenance, alterations, space planning and fitout works within the corporate, retail and hospitality industries. However, I personally enjoy any project where we get involved in at the start and are able to follow through to project completion; it gives me a great amount of satisfaction. What are some of the challenges you face, and how do you stay motivated? I find the main challenges stem from designing and delivering projects that both the client and their staff and customers are happy with, along with ensuring that all aspects of the project meet the particular businesses’ functional criteria. I use the things I observe around me as inspiration - I take a lot of notice of textures, styles and how things are done when travelling, or when I’m simply out on the road. If things sometimes don’t go to plan, what is your approach? I think that the best way to approach any problem or issue is to firstly listen to the client to gain a greater understanding as to what they require and expect. Once this is established

it is essential to correctly apply my industry knowledge and relationships to deliver the most effective solution or outcome. Building a strong working relationship with clients (and contractors) is absolutely imperative and can be achieved with hard work, honesty and a constant commitment to service.

Do you think that GVM SOLUTION’s approach offers any points of difference? We have an ‘easy going’ but still an extremely customer-focused service commitment. If you have ever heard of the saying “Happy wife. Happy Life”, we have a similar philosophy towards our work and projects…..and that is “ Happy Client. Successful Job”. What have you learnt from your time in the industry so far? I have learnt many lessons - both big and small - but the ones that stick in my mind are about absolute (not partial) honesty with people. I believe that this is without any doubt the best policy and I have stuck with it through my construction career – irrespective of the situation or challenges. The other thing that is of equal standing is to always listen to what the clients want. I feel that some companies within the industry try push clients to a direction that is either easier or more profitable for them – at the expense of the client, and the client’s requirements and needs. Do you care to share any other exciting projects you are working on? We have been involved in many projects from expansions and new divisions to image changes and project specific reconfigurations. We are currently working on giving an office at the Perth Airport a face lift through computer cut graphic film all around the outside function areas of the office. We also have an engineering company that are moving premises and have asked for the “Funky office”, really looking forward to presenting our ideas and fitting them out. What do you enjoy doing in your own time? The biggest enjoyment (and also the greatest responsibility and love) in my life come relate to my wife and six children. My children are all still quite young and the opportunities to do things with them are great. From being their soccer coach and taxi driver, to going to the beach and eating out, and with all the other various activities we share – there is never a dull moment and life is always engaging. I am also heavily involved in my church and my children’s schooling. How would you like your peers in the industry to remember you when you are no longer in the building industry? I would like to be remembered as an honest guy that just wanted to provide the best construction experience for his clients. BC

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RESIDENTIAL

Wonder Walls // words simone gillespie

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We’ve come a long way since paint, plaster and “fusty old” wallpaper were the only options to “jazzing up” a blank wall. The 21st century is all about dazzling new, custom-made wallpaper (forget that horrid floral flocked stuff ), amazing stylish high-end wall “coverings”, specialised metal - yes metal - wall coverings and a whole lot more, says Simone Gillespie of Essence Interior Design and Renovations. “Wallpaper these days comes in many guises, some custom-made, with whatever image you want printed on them.” Among the vanguard of the wallpaper revolution is Origin Wallpapers. Ower Mike Van Der Vossen has a showroom at Osborne Park’s Revival Hill studio to showcase the amazing range. “Our wallpapers are handcrafted in Perth. Our wallpapers are pre-pasted, which means it’s easier for customers to DIY. We print the patterns at any size and scale and all for the same price. We install our wallpapers…no need to hunt around for tradespeople. Our designs are always changing and being updated. We Photoshop our designs onto customers’ photos to show them what the final finish will look like. We’re never out of stock as we print on demand to the exact wall size. All our artwork is available on canvas, fabrics and wallpapers, Our artwork is not mainstream, and that’s a good thing.” Scandinavian Walls and Decor, with a showroom in Oxford St Leederville, has another twist on the wallpaper theme - magnetic wallpaper. Says Anne Louise from Scandinavian: “The Magnetic Lining Paper also works perfectly with both our wallpapers and murals. You can select from our extensive collection of wallpapers and murals which when paired with the magnetic lining paper create a multi-dimensional finish.” Then there are the wall “coverings” from Doug Wilkie’s Designer Walls.

THE BUILDERS CHOICE UHVLGHQWLDO

The 21st century is all about dazzling, custom-made wallpaper and a whole lot more...

Doug has high-end, luxury fabric, linen and heavily embellished and textural wall coverings from companies such as Tapetex, who are masters of the art of wall covering, popular all over Great Britain and Europe. Having completed several high-end projects at the Duxton Hotel, Crown Entertainment complex and Peninsula Apartment complex and other five-star establishments, Doug says his wall coverings surpass other wallpapers for their durability as they are all generally thicker and made of fabrics and textiles rather than just paper. Often used in stairwells, lift lobbies and hotel hallways that attract high level traffic, the wall coverings display “high-level luxurious looks with built-in durability.” Metalcote can give a wall (or any other substrate) the wow factor in spades. Metalcote have over 200 metal finishes in various textures including aluminium, bronze, brass, copper, nickel, zinc, pewter, graphite, iron. Paint, of course, is the easiest way to adorn a wall quickly, inexpensively and with little fuss. For many years the term “feature wall” was bandied about in almost every conversation about walls. However these days feature walls have made way for a new way to think about highlighting certain wall - colour blocking. Says a Dulux spokesperson: “Colour Blocking is a new and modern approach for featuring colour. It can be as simple as one block on a wall streaming into a wider frame or door. For something a little more complex, try using multiple colours and add textures to provide a pattern of colour blocking.” Then there’s N-Cast, a plaster cast 3-D wall product that has unlimited uses, can be painted and affixed to any surface. “At N-Cast we design and make 3-D bespoke wall coverings and finishes. They are cast in a fine casting plaster which is imported from the UK. The products can all be painted once cast, to the clients’ individual requirements. A 3-D effect is produced – unlike any other product - and unlike other companies, we craft our walls by hand without the use of any machinery,” says an N-Cast spokeswoman. “We can individually design walls to our clients requests and tailor them to suit the overall theme of the rooms they are fitted in. We offer an installation service which provides a quick and efficient way of attaching these coverings to interior walls.” Last, but not least, is the raw beauty of using natural stone as a wall cladding product. Mataka Stone’s Gary Neylan has been importing and sourcing stone from quarries around the world - travertine, sandstone, limestone, quartz, granite and bluestone; all beautiful, all completely natural. Mataka Stone are experts in travertine varieties from around the globe, in wall cladding and stacked stone and Kimberly sandstone, as well as many others. BC Essence Interior Design & Renovations Management: 0411 348 761, www.essenceinteriors.com.au

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HEATING

The heat is on There are many ways to heat your home - almost as many ways as there are pros and cons for each method. // words rocky amatulli

Home heating has evolved over the years, but the humble wood fire still ranks as one of the more popular ways that people heat their homes. Nationally, statistics claim that the most common energy sources used for heating Australian homes are electricity (used in 37% of homes), gas (32%) and wood (10%). Almost one-fifth of homes have no heating at all, but we can imagine with reasonable certainty that most of these are in the northern half of the country. An interesting Western Australian survey undertaken between May and September 2004 in the City of Melville, City of Joondalup and Town of Kwinana invited randomly selected householders to complete a survey. Approximately 3.3% of the sample population were interviewed, making this the largest survey targeting home heating in Australia. A total of 3114 surveys were completed. The key findings were that natural gas was the most common heating source, followed by electric, and then wood heating. Unflued gas heaters were the most common form of primary heating, and the majority of homes with any form of heating had at least one form of insulation - the most popular being ceiling insulation. The Australian Home Heating Association (AHHA) is the peak industry body representing more than 250 manufacturers, retailers, installers, maintenance companies and the firewood sector of the home heating industry which employs over 10,000 Australians nationwide. But while the AHHA is an advocate for wood-fired heating, it does not recommend that home owners use open brick chimneys as a heating source. While they may provide an ambience that other forms of heating cannot, they are very inefficient and high polluters of the environment. New insert-type heaters tested and approved to Australia’s tough air pollution standards are available in many different sizes and designed to fit into your existing brick chimney to change it from an “old wood hungry” low heat output fire to a modern fuel efficient and low pollution wood heater. Geographic and convenience considerations also influence the type of heating used – so it generally isn’t simply a case of cost and efficiency when consumers make their selection. In most rural areas and smaller towns for example, firewood offers the lowest cost energy source for domestic heating. The industry also provides about 9500 jobs, many in areas of high unemployment. In most rural areas, split, dry firewood is available for $140 to $150 per tonne. If people collect their own firewood, the cost is simply their own time and perhaps some fuel for transport and a chainsaw. Thus, the efficient wood heater offers people throughout rural Australia a chance to heat their homes economically, at running costs far below any other energy source. In the large cities, only natural gas and heat pumps offer heating

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with running costs comparable to firewood, and this is because of the high price of firewood in these areas. Heat pumps have a high capital cost and so are only available to some sections of the community and the majority of families cannot afford initial costs of $5000 to $10,000 for home heating. The AHHA sees firewood as a renewable source and recommends reputable firewood suppliers and runs education campaigns on the correct use of wood heaters. Electricity is another source of power for heating. It’s available almost everywhere, and some power companies offer a subscription to a green-power scheme, where you pay a slightly higher rate per kWh for electricity that’s generated from renewable sources such as solar, hydro, wind or biomass. Electric heaters are very energy-efficient, and don’t produce pollutants in your home. You also don’t need to store fuel, as is the case with firewood. Heating with portable electric heaters can be relatively expensive however. While the heaters themselves don’t produce pollutants, power plants that generate electricity by burning fossil fuels produce considerable amounts of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) and other air pollutants. That is why heating with electric radiant, convection and off-peak heaters produces the largest amount of carbon dioxide of all the heating options in our comparison (except in Tasmania, where most of the power is generated by hydroelectric schemes). While the heaters themselves are energy-efficient, there’s also considerable energy loss during the generation and transport of electricity - up to 70% of the original energy contained in the fuels used to produce the electricity. And if there is a power cut (for example during a winter storm) you have no heating available. Furthermore, the heating capacity of portable electric heaters is limited to 2.4kW, which may not be enough to comfortably heat large areas. Reverse-cycle air conditioning is a popular option in WA where you need cooling for a few months and heating for a few months as well - the same system achieves both functions. The system consists of a ‘’heat pump’’ which works on the refrigerator principle, drawing heat out of the air outdoors and releasing it into the air indoors. This is more efficient than direct heating methods the process can be reversed to achieve cooling instead of heating. Natural gas is generally much cheaper than heating with portable electric heaters. It generally produces much less carbon dioxide than heating with electricity (except in the case of reverse-cycle air conditioning). The heating capacity of portable gas heaters isn’t as limited as with portable electric heaters. Gas heaters carry also a star rating which informs consumers about their energy efficiency: the more stars, the more efficient they are. Natural gas is not available everywhere however. Gas also produces combustion

THE BUILDERS CHOICE KHDWLQJ

Reverse-cycle air conditioning is a popular option in WA where you need cooling for a few months and heating for a few months as well - the same system achieves both functions. gases, so users either need to install a flue or have to live with and manage the gases in your home. Gas heating is most popular in WA, Victoria and SA, where mains (natural) gas is readily available. When it comes to solid fuels, there are also other alternatives to wood. Coal has a high energy content and it can be burnt in many slow-combustion heaters. Other fuelled-fire options now include ethanol fireplaces, which have hit the market in the last few years. These use denatured ethanol (methylated spirits) which doesn’t produce fumes (except water vapour), so they don’t need vents or flues. They are comparable in heating capacity and efficiency to an unflued gas heater, and typically cost a few hundred dollars. However, they are more expensive to run; one litre of fuel, costing about $2.50, will give roughly 90 minutes to two hours burning on a high setting. The same amount of heating with gas would cost around 50c. Hydronic heating is what you would call central heating in the UK - burning gas to heat water which is then piped into radiators in each room. It does exist in Australia, but is unlikely to be seen in Western Australia. It is more likely to be used in the colder states such as Victoria and Tasmania. Geothermal heating is another newer technology now used for heating, though the source has always been there. The constant heat source from the earth is

always available and is not dependent upon sunlight hours or temperature climate - due to the stable temperature of the earth. It can therefore provide reliable heating (and cooling). Geothermal heating can also be used to heat a pool or spa, and hot water. Geothermal heating provides a highly cost competitive and environmentally friendly option. For the consumer, it provides a reliable, low-maintenance, long life energy supply with the benefit of protection from energy cost increases. The system is designed for easy integration with various air distribution systems installed in your home to circulate hot or cool air depending on the season. Alternatively, you can connect to a radiant floor heating option to distribute heat evenly and efficiently throughout your home. With this configuration, heat is distributed through hot water circulated in a piping system in your floor. The radiant floor option provides up to 40% additional energy savings added to those already delivered by this geothermal system. Because of its small size and mechanical simplicity, a geothermal system is convenient, reliable and easy to maintain. Irrespective of these forms of heating, we can be assured that as availability and prices of various fuels change in the years to come, so will the way in which we heat our homes. BC

-OBILE

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 121

WATER EFFICIENCY

Kicking goals New water strategy supports open spaces. PHOTO: Alkimos park and oval

// words department of water

The urban development sector is set to benefit from a new strategy which will make water available for public open spaces across new communities in Perth’s growing North West Corridor. The North West Corridor Water Supply Strategy was released in January and covers more than 9000 hectares earmarked for urban development from Quinns Rocks to Yanchep. “Having adequate public open space is really important for residents’ health and wellbeing, and groundwater availability in this high-growth area is extremely limited,” Water Minister Mia Davies said at the strategy launch at Alkimos Beach estate. “By assessing the potential availability of groundwater, as well as the future needs of public open spaces, the Department of Water has developed the North West Corridor Water Supply Strategy. This will ensure available water is shared to irrigate parks, playing fields and other public open spaces in these new residential developments.” In the past, Perth’s suburban sports pitches and parks have generally not been limited by water availability, however this has changed as the city has grown and rainfall and groundwater recharge has declined. The North West Corridor Water Supply Strategy is built on reduced turf irrigation rates and the adoption of water-sensitive design and is the result of a partnership between the Department

122 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

of Water and the City of Wanneroo in consultation with other local governments and urban developers. The strategy will make sure the ovals, parks and playing fields which are shown in approved planning documents for this fast growing area will not be restricted by limited water availability. “The cornerstone of the strategy is the new licensing schedule,” Department of Water Director Water and Land Use Don Crawford said. “The schedule uses reduced irrigation rates and is based on the experience of the City of Joondalup which successfully maintains its high quality open spaces with annual rates of 6750 kilolitres per hectare – down from a typical allocation of 7500 kilolitres.” As well as underpinning the work of government planners and developers in providing open spaces, Mr Crawford said the strategy demonstrates how water sensitive design (including hydro-zoning and eco-zoning), reduced turf irrigation rates and efficient water use practices can support – not limit – public open space. “The strategy supports water sensitive urban designed communities that minimise water use on non-active open space areas, such as verges and feature gardens, while maximising community use of active turf areas,” he said. “In this way valuable water resources are prioritised to public areas used for community health and activity.” The strategy was formally launched at an event at Alkimos Beach estate, a high growth coastal community in Perth’s North West Corridor where the new licensing schedule is already being used. The estate incorporates a waterwise urban playground while the nearby Trinity residential estate features playing fields that are designed to be shared by schools and community sports clubs. “The Alkimos-Eglinton area is one of the largest self-contained, planned development projects in Australia,” Mr Crawford said. “It’s expected to accommodate around 57,000 new residents across more than 2500 hectares of land under a public-private partnership. This water supply strategy will allow for more than 37 hectares of sporting fields to be established and maintained in

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Alkimos-Eglinton to serve the community and local schools. This is the equivalent of almost 18 WACAs or 45 soccer fields. “The strategy will also make water available for a further 150 hectares of public open space for active and passive community recreation.� Mr Crawford said the strategy marked a shift in the approach to public open space planning, design and management. “The public open space of the future must incorporate, where possible, eco-zoning, stormwater harvesting and water recycling which can be supported by the groundwater allocations in this strategy. It’s our hope that developers, builders and local governments will embrace this strategy and recognise that even in the face of constrained groundwater resources, it shouldn’t limit our ability to provide playing fields and public open spaces for community sport and recreation.� The North West Corridor Water Supply Strategy can be accessed via the Department of Water website: www.water.wa.gov.au. BC

Saving water suddenly makes a lot of sense both economically and environmentally. Water prices increasing by 18% from 2010-2011 and bulk water costs and sewerage connections predicted to rise 47% by 2017.

Department of Water: (08) 6364 7600, www.water.wa.gov.au

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The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 123

SUSTAINABILIT Y

Living for tomorrow // words marc drexel, director arcactive

Sustainable living is holistic: it encompasses where and how you live. I have met many people over the years that live very sustainably in not particularly sustainable properties and I’m sure the inverse is true. Ultimately it is about developing healthy, easy to manage, practical lifestyle habits. There is much confusion in the market about what to do and when to do it. People are quite often shocked to find their big plasma TV can use upwards of 20% of their power, yet become very particular about turning off lights in a house that may use 6% of the energy. It is also vital that you understand the cost of power and peak load times. The same rationale really applies to all aspects of sustainable living. Below I will talk to the holistic language of sustainability and try to explain in simple terms how you can embrace this lifestyle. ENERGY Where you live t 6TF DMJNBUF SFTQPOTJWF TPMBS QBTTJWF EFTJHO QSJODJQMFT UP LFFQ your home naturally warm in winter and cool in summer. t *OTUBMM SFOFXBCMF FOFSHZ TZTUFNT TVDI BT TPMBS QBOFMT BOE solar water heaters. t *OTUBMM FOFSHZ FóDJFOU EFWJTFT TVDI BT TNBSU NFUFSJOH BOE automated timers to minimise energy use during hours of peak demand. t *OWFTU JO FóDJFOU BQQMJBODFT JODMVEJOH XBTIJOH NBDIJOFT dishwashers, ovens and energy efficient lighting including LED or compact fluorescent globes.

How you live t 5VSO Pò BQQMJBODFT EVSJOH UIF QFBL FMFDUSJDJUZ EFNBOE QFSJPE of 3pm to 8pm. t 8BTI DMPUIFT PO DPME BOE ESZ UIFN PVUEPPST JOTUFBE PG VTJOH B tumble dryer. t 4XJUDI BQQMJBODFT Pò BU UIF QPXFS QPJOU UP BWPJE VTJOH ‘standby power’ when not in use. t 3FQMBDF BQQMJBODFT BOE MJHIUJOH XJUI FOFSHZ FóDJFOU NPEFMT when it’s time to buy new. t 6TF OBUVSBM WFOUJMBUJPO BOE GBOT UP LFFQ DPPM BOE QVU PO B GFX extra layers of clothes to keep warm. t *G ZPV VTF BJS DPOEJUJPOFST TFU ZPVS DPPMJOH UFNQFSBUVSF UP 25 or 26°C and turn your heat temperature down as much as possible. For every temperature degree you change, your electricity bill will also change by 5-10%. WATER Where you live t 1MVNC SBJOXBUFS UBOLT CBDL UP UIF IPVTF GPS UPJMFU øVTIJOH laundry and hot water and, if treated, for showers and drinking. t 3FVTF HSFZXBUFS GSPN UIF MBVOESZ BOE TIPXFST GPS JSSJHBUJOH the garden. t *OWFTU JO IJHI FóDJFODZ öYUVSFT JODMVEJOH TIPXFST UPJMFUT BOE taps and water-efficient appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. t 1MBOU XBUFS XJTF HBSEFOT XJUI OBUJWF PS MPX XBUFS EFNBOE plants which require no or very little irrigation. t *OTUBMM XBUFS XJTF JSSJHBUJPO TVDI BT ANJDSP ESJQ SFUJDVMBUJPO fitted with timers and zoned to match watering rates. How you live t 5BLF TIPSUFS TIPXFST t 6TF UIF IBMG øVTI PO ZPVS UPJMFU t 8BTI ZPVS DBS VTJOH B CVDLFU JOTUFBE PG B IPTF t 'PMMPX XBUFS SFTUSJDUJPOT BOE XIFO ZPV EP XBUFS VTF B USJHHFS nozzle on your hose. t 3VO GVMM MPBET JO UIF EJTIXBTIFS BOE JG ZPV XBTI CZ IBOE VTF a bucket instead of a running tap and then pour the water into the garden. t -JLFXJTF XIFO XBTIJOH DMPUIFT FOTVSF UIF XBTIJOH NBDIJOF JT full. t 4XFFQ ZPVS ESJWFXBZ JOTUFBE PG VTJOH B IPTF t 'JY MFBLZ UBQT

124 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

THE BUILDERS CHOICE VXVWDLQDELOLW\

It is...vital that you understand the cost of power and peak load times. The same rationale really applies to all aspects of sustainable living.

MATERIALS Where you live t 5IJOL CFZPOE ZPVS JNNFEJBUF OFFET XIFO EFTJHOJOH ZPVS home. A well-designed home that can accommodate the needs of a broad range of household types will have a longer lifespan and remain attractive to future buyers in the long-term. t $POTJEFS VTJOH CVJMEJOH NBUFSJBMT XJUI MPX FNCPEJFE FOFSHZ which means they do not require a lot of energy to manufacture and construct. t $IPPTF CVJMEJOH NBUFSJBMT UIBU BSF OBUVSBM SFOFXBCMF PS CPUI such as sustainable timber. t &YQMPSF XBZT UP VTF NBUFSJBMT NBEF GSPN SFDZDMFE QSPEVDUT PS easily recyclable. t -PPL JOUP UIF RVBMJUZ PG QBJOUT WBSOJTIFT BOE PUIFS öOJTIFT BT they can emit vapours that may have a negative effect on indoor air quality and your health. How you live t $IPPTF GVSOJUVSF NBEF GSPN TVTUBJOBCMF UJNCFS SFOFXBCMF materials, and/or recycled products or rediscover vintage furniture. t #VZ MPDBMMZ NBEF QSPEVDUT t *G JU XPSLT XFMM LFFQ VTJOH JU BOE PS HFU JU TFSWJDFE t 4UPSF PS EJTQPTF PG IB[BSEPVT NBUFSJBMT TVDI BT CBUUFSJFT QBJOUT and oils in a way safe to your health and the environment. LIVEABILITY Where you live t %FTJHO BOE öU PVU ZPVS IPNF BDDPSEJOH UP VOJWFSTBM A4BGF BOE Accessible’ design principles, which accommodates the needs of people of all ages and mobility levels. This includes features such as level paths and entries, wide doors, ground-level toilet and bathroom and step-free shower. t .BYJNJTF OBUVSBM MJHIU BOE WFOUJMBUJPO UP LFFQ ZPVS IPNF comfortable year-round and to support your health. How you live t #F BDUJWF BOE FOKPZ UIF PVUEPPST CZ XBMLJOH DZDMJOH BOE gardening. t #VZ MPDBMMZ HSPXO BOE QSPEVDFE GPPET BOE FBU IFBMUIZ t $MFBO XJUI QSPEVDUT UIBU BSF DIFNJDBM GSFF BOE TVTUBJOBCMZ sourced. NATURE Where you live t 1MBOU MPDBM OBUJWF TQFDJFT PO ZPVS QSPQFSUZ BT UIFZ SFRVJSF MFTT water and attract fauna and encourage biodiversity. t 4IBEF ZPVS IPNF BOE PVUEPPS BSFBT XJUI OBUJWF BOE deciduous trees to keep it cooler in summer. t $SFBUF B WFHFUBCMF QBUDI BOE QMBOU GSVJU USFFT t 8PSL XJUI ZPVS OFJHICPVST BOE MPDBM HPWFSONFOU UP QMBOU natives along your street verges and in local parks, this will help establish ecological corridors and provide shade and cooling.

How you live t ,FFQ QFUT JOEPPST BU OJHIU BOE FOTVSF DBUT IBWF B CFMM PO UIFJS collar if they go outside. t 6TF FOWJSPONFOUBMMZ TFOTJUJWF QSPEVDUT GPS QFTU BOE XFFE control, or better still, pull weeds by hand. t -FBSO NPSF BCPVU CJPEJWFSTJUZ JO ZPVS MPDBM BSFB :PVS MPDBM government is a good resource. t #VJME B OFTUJOH IBCJUBU JO USFFT PS QFSHPMBT GPS CJSET BOE OBUJWF fauna. TRANSPORT Where you live t *ODMVEF FBTZ UP BDDFTT CJDZDMF TUPSBHF JO ZPVS IPNF EFTJHO t $POTJEFS UIF OFBSCZ QVCMJD USBOTQPSU MJOLT TVDI BT USBOTQPSU hubs, bus stops and train stations. How you live t 5BLF QVCMJD USBOTQPSU XIFSFWFS QPTTJCMF t 8BML PS SJEF UP XPSL MPDBM TIPQT TDIPPM BOE UP UIF CVT PS USBJO station. t 4FSWJDF ZPVS DBS SFHVMBSMZ BOE NBJOUBJO ZPVS UZSF QSFTTVSF UP maximise fuel efficiency. t $POTJEFS XIFUIFS ZPV SFBMMZ OFFE UXP DBST PS CFUUFS TUJMM DBS pool with your local community. t 1VSDIBTF B IZCSJE FMFDUSJD PS GVFM FóDJFOU DBS XIFO ZPV CVZ B vehicle. COMMUNITY Where you live t 4VQQPSU MPDBM TIPQT TFSWJDFT USBEFT BOE PUIFS MPDBM businesses. t &OSPM ZPVS DIJMESFO JO MPDBM EBZ DBSF BOE TDIPPMT o JU T B OBUVSBM way to become involved in your community. How you live t 8PSL XJUI ZPVS OFJHICPVST BOE ZPVS MPDBM DPNNVOJUZ UP establish community amenities, local facilities, sports teams and encourage local culture and arts. t &OSPM JO B DPVSTF UP MFBSO NPSF BCPVU MJWJOH TVTUBJOBCMZ t 1BSUJDJQBUF JO B DPNNVOJUZ HBSEFO o ZPVS MPDBM HPWFSONFOU can provide information. t 6TF ZPVS MPDBM QBSLT SFDSFBUJPO DFOUSFT TQPSUT DMVCT DBGFT BOE shops. t (FU UP LOPX ZPVS OFJHICPVST BOE IFMQ FBDI PUIFS PVU t 7PMVOUFFS ZPVS UJNF JO ZPVS MPDBM DPNNVOJUZ When adopting a sustainable lifestyle not only will you be leading a healthier lifestyle you will be more engaged with your community, connected to your surroundings and you will be getting significant economic benefits. I would like to thank the dedicated team from ARCactive for helping put together this article. BC ARCactive: 0412 928 504 / 0407 427 927, www.arcactive.com.au

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 125

ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION

New name for new panel building system Ecostruct Panel Systems ECOSTRUCT ™ is a new structurally engineered insulated panel wall system that can be used in residential, commercial and industrial construction in lieu of brick, timber or steel. What makes ECOSTRUCT ™ different is the patented panel connection system that allows flexible design for external (150mm thick) and internal walls (86mm thick) with cyclone rated construction to two storeys as a minimum standard in any Australian conditions. There are many advantages of using ECOSTRUCT ™ panels including energy efficiency, white ant resistant, fire retardant and the component materials are recyclable making the panel system sustainable and eco-friendly with less waste during manufacture and construction. Construction requires only one trade meaning less people on site for a shorter period of time allowing lock up and practical completion sooner than using traditional brick materials. Using the patented connection system with base and top plates tied down to the concrete slab the Ecostruct Panel System wall is simple, quick and connects to any selected roof construction method.

The cost advantages of ECOSTRUCT ™ include less material costs compared to the traditional alternatives and with significantly reduced build time saving site costs for Builders. Home buyers will benefit greatly with reduced interest and rent payments as well as the construction savings and they will be in their house much sooner. ECOSTRUCT PANEL SYSTEMS is ready to respond to the growing demand for Engineered Sustainable Panel wall systems for the residential market in WA and the rest of the country. For further detailed information please visit www. ecostructps.com or for your quotation please contact the office on Phone 9493 1110 or Email info@ecostructps.com For further information regarding this release please contact, Peter Kay (Executive General Manager) Ecostruct Panel Systems: P: 08 9493 1110, M: 0411 750531 E: peterkay@ecostructps.com ADVERTORIAL SUPPLIED BY CLIENT

MiTek PosiStruts have an easy access advantage. MiTek PosiStruts are ideal for today’s building needs because they offer a wide range of advantages, which deliver savings to the architect, engineer and builder. They’re a truly customised, totally engineered flooring and / or roofing system that combines the versatility of timber with the strength of steel. PosiStruts unique ‘open web’ design provides excellent access for services, whilst making them lighter and quicker to install than solid timber joists. Plumbing, electrical, heating & air conditioning/ ducting can all be easily accommodated by this ingenious ‘open web’ system. Forget cutting through solid timber joists and reducing their strength; PosiStruts make difficult access a thing of the past. No other Beam can boast ‘Top Chord Support’… so there is no need to use expensive fixings and brackets during installation. PosiStruts can be manufactured in lengths up to 12 metres, with either 35mm or 45mm chords, depending on load bearing requirements. They can span large, open areas with minimum use of internal supports, making them the ideal solution for open plan designs. They can also be specifically designed and engineered for special projects and tailor made to accommodate special support conditions like hidden steel beams. There have even been some innovative applications in roof construction, with everything from standard roof-lines to curved structures. ADVERTORIAL SUPPLIED BY CLIENT

126 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Although popular in domestic construction, PosiStruts are now making a name for themselves in a vast array of commercial and light industrial applications because they offer a far more cost-effective solution to steel and are much easier to install. They’re also ideal for second storeys, sites with poor foundations and steep sites which need to be cut & filled, thus avoiding costly retaining wall structures. In fact when you take into account the ease of installation and the easy access advantages for services, the savings on-site, in man-hours alone, can be considerable.

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www.smartsteelframes.com.au The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 127

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Open Saturd ay till noon!

31 Sheffield Road (cnr Dampier Road) Welshpool Ph: 9351 3400 Opening Hours - Mon to Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm Sat 9:00am - 12:00pm

www.jasonwindows.com.au

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 129

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PINE & TREATED PINE TRUSSES

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AUTHORISED FABRICATOR Quality Roof Trusses Floor Trusses Wall Frames Bulk Timber Supplies

Builders of individually designed swimming pools

9938 2230 Fax: 9938 2247 714 Chapman Rd, Geraldton WA 6530 Email: chris@midwestrooftrusses.com.au

P: 9240 5222 F: 9240 5300 2/146 Balcatta Rd, Balcatta WA 6021 E: westateshowerscreens@iinet.net.au www.westateshowerscreens.com.au

130 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Winners of over 50 Awards of Excellence Office/Showroom 5/15 Halley Road, Balcatta P (08) 9344 2366 E info@exclusivepools.com.au

www.exclusivepools.com.au

“At last a brick pack that’s easier to slice and move around on-site”. Peter McGreal, Summit Homes Group Bricklayer

Our new EasySlice SafePak has been designed with your bricklayers’ wellbeing and efficiency in mind. As well as making the pack’s bridge course more stable we’ve added a horizontal strap to hold the slices together and eliminate the difficultto-cut bottom plastic strips. So, not only is our new pack more stable but the slices can now be more easily separated, making them safer and easier to move on your building site. If you want happier, more productive brickies, order the new EasySlice SafePak, available exclusively from Brikmakers, and get all the great benefits. Call 1300 360 344 now.

INSPIRING INNOVATION

THE BUILDERS CHOICE EXLOGLQJ SURGXFWV VHUYLFHV

SUPER CIVIL CAN PROVIDE A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

& Toilet Hire & Sales & Chemicals/Waste Removal & Servicing Hire a work site loo from a low $5.50INC GST per day* Buy your own portable toilet from $1800 inc. www.instanttoilets.com.au hire@instanttoilets.com.au

Ph: 9406 6600 *Terms & Conditions Apply

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Phone: Matt McDowell 0488 775 388 9452 8040 Email: matt@supercivil.com.au or mark@supercivil.com.au

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Phone/Fax: (08) 9250 2220 Mobile: 0438 429 118 Email: frametecinc@bigpond.com

www.frametec.net.au

Unit 2-36 Meliador Way, Midvale WA 6056 PO Box 205, Bullsbrook WA 6084 132 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Ph: (08) 6250 3888 Fax: (08) 9455 2919 19-21 Canvale Rd, Canning Vale WA 6155

www.shelleyglass.com.au

THE BUILDERS CHOICE EXLOGLQJ SURGXFWV VHUYLFHV

Panoramic Vacuum Elevator An easy-to-install, compact, alternative to standard home elevators and dumbwaiters that are elegant and functional. What Makes Vacuum Elevators Different t .PEFMT PS QFSTPO lifts t #FBVUJGVM "EEJUJPO UP BOZ Environment t &BTZ UP .BJOUBJO t 'JUT *O 4NBMM 4QBDFT t "NB[JOH &YQFSJFODF t &BTJFS UP JOTUBMM UIBO traditional Elevators t 1FSGFDU GPS -FWFMT t (SFBU GPS FYJTUJOH TUSVDUVSFT t 2VJDL *OTUBMMBUJPO t .JOJNBM &OFSHZ $POTVNQUJPO t $PNQMFUFMZ TBGF t 'SPN (45

V.E. AUSTRALIA Vacuum Elevators Australia 1/125 Main Street, Osborne Park, WA 6017 PH: (08) 9201 2006 / Fax: (08) 9201 1130 E: Info@veaustralia.com.au / www.veaustralia.com.au

134 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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As featured in a well known Architectural program.

DANIEL COLEMAN: 0488 772 157 ddcbricklaying@bigpond.com

PROGRESSIVE CEILINGS PTY LTD

Where quality counts.

Trusted advice and quality workmanship for the right price. Progressive Ceilings Pty Ltd are a local, Perth-based ceiling installation company specialising in all aspects of commercial, industrial and high-end new build residential interior lining. With over 15 years in the building and construction industry, we pride ourselves on the highest quality work and 100% customer satisfaction. We specialise in the removal and installation of all commercial and industrial ceilings and walls, including suspended ceilings and grid tile ceilings. Our team can

P: 08 6406 1600

quickly and efficiently remove existing systems, and have experience installing fire rated and acoustic systems, suspended ceilings, steel stud partitions, and thermal and acoustic insulation. Through our professional experience we have gained a wealth of industry knowledge, enabling us to offer sound advice for any design issues or questions you may have, and we are confident in our expertise and product knowledge. So give us a call today on 08 6406 1600.

E: accounts@progressiveceilings.com

www.progressiveceilings.com

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La Penna Tiling Specialising in Kerlite, Marble, Granite & Mosaic

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Travertine, Stones, Porcelain & Ceramics

41&$*"-

Curved Shower Screen from (45 installed

/0 .03& 4&(.&/5&% (-"44 We are WA’s leading manufacturer of curved glass products with specialised on site equipment $637&% 4)08&3 4$3&&/4 t '&"563& 8*/%084 t 41-"4)#"$,4

Stefano Cangini 0412 218 304 E: cangini.stefano@yahoo.com

Unit 3 - 38 Frobisher Street, Osborne Park, WA 6017 P: 08 9201 1058 | F: 08 9201 1899 | E: glasscurvers@iinet.net.au www.glasscurvers.com.au

SPECIALISTS IN ALUMINIUM ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS

1300 650 075

www.ullrich.com.au 136 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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GLASSCENE DOMESTIC I COMMERCIAL I TRANSPORTABLE

89mm 140mm steel wall frames trusses roof panels PP ÁRRU MRLVW cassette system 10 Mcintyre Wy Kenwick WA 6107 P 08 9452 7004 M 0418 922 008 F 08 9448 5058 E drafting@steelscene.com.au

www.steelscene.com.au

Give your customers a 6-star service.

Australia’s Leader in Double Glazed Windows & Doors With A Range Of Windows & Doors To Meet Any Specification

Thermal break aluminium window system Double glazing Multi Locking points Thermal efficiency, Low U & SHGC values Low e glass, tinting options Internal Blinds (located between the two panes of glass) Hidden fixing on the frames (ideal for retro fit) SYSTEMS: Tilt and Turn I Awning Sliding doors and windows I Bifold doors P 08 9452 7004 Mobile 0433 984 244 10 Mcintyre Wy Kenwick, WA 6107 Email: dave@glasscene.com.au www. glasscene.com.au

6-star Builder’s Series. Building on our heritage of innovation, we’re proud to introduce the Rinnai Builders Range of continuous flow hot water – now with added efficiency to help further reduce energy usage and running costs. The range includes: B16 - 6.2 star efficiency with temperature preset 500C or 600C available. B20 - 6.1 star efficiency with temperature preset 500C or 600C available. B26 - 6.1 star efficiency with temperature preset 500C or 600C available. The Rinnai True 50 Innovation. To offset heat loss in the pipework, the installing plumber can set the temperature at the unit to ensure the temperature is precise when it reaches the outlet.

Adjust temperature here (530C)

Get perfect temperature here (500C)

Make the Rinnai Builders Series a must-have on your next job. www.rinnai.com.au

for futher assistance and an introduction to your local Rinnai representative.

05174 WA

Call 1300 555 545

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 137

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Proudly supplied by All Type Flooring. www.alltypeflooring.com.au atfsales@iinet.net.au

138 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

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Why Gorter? Experience – Enjoy our beautifully crafted access to the world above. Experience stunning views of your neighbourhood, the open skies and all in the comfort of your own home! Standard of Living – Host dinner parties that your friends will be in awe of – right on your new roof terrace. Enjoy the sunshine in summer which will be perfect for those with limited backyard space.

the heat out of those scorching hot summer days and keeps the cold out from those unforgiving winter nights! (Gorter’s roof hatches comply with section J of the BCA which refers to energy efficiency).

Security – Safe, secure and so easy to use! Gorter roof hatches have a secure key lock system to keep your family safe.

Style – Designed with award winning homes in mind, Gorter’s access hatches are a stunning addition to your home. Our top of the line access systems are stylish and can be custom made to suit any access you require. Our unique scissor/retractable stairs are sturdy and built to last, without compromising in style.

Eco Friendly – Wanting to keep those escalating bills down? Gorters’ roof access hatches are thermally insulated so it keeps

Gorter adds style, class, elegance and value to your existing home!

Visit our website for more information

www.gorterhatches.com.au Gorter Hatches Pty Ltd PO Box 2203 Yokine South WA 6060 Head Office: 08 9463 6636 Email: sales@gorterhatches.com.au

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THE BUILDERS CHOICE GLUHFWRU\ OLVWLQJ ACCOUNTING

CABINET MAKER

OPTIMISE YOUR BUSINESS & GET A GOOD RETURN

We provide excellent accounting services & taxation solutions. "$$06/5*/( t 5"9"5*0/ "6%*5*/( t '*/"/$*"- 4&37*$&4

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL CNC MACHINING Cabinets $ from

83

(excluding doors & drawer fronts)

(08) 9256 2828

Ground Floor East, 41 Great Eastern Hwy, Rivervale WA 6103 Ph: 08 6162 8288 Mob: 0421 457 707 info@obpaccounting.com.au

www.obpaccounting.com.au

CRANES

M: 04311 70207 U3/24 Baile Rd, Canning Vale e: info@ecossecabinets.com.au

www.ecossecabinets.com.au

EARTHMOVING

CEILINGS & PARTITIONS

Specialists in: Commercial/Industrial Walls and Ceilings (ZQSPDL t $FJMJOHT 8BMM -JOJOHT Suspended Ceilings Extenzo Stretch Ceilings 0GmDF 'JUPVUT t 1BSUJUJPOJOH 1SPKFDU .BOBHFNFOU

PO Box 629, BALCATTA WA 6914 Unit 15/16, 213 Balcatta Rd BALCATTA WA 6021 T. (08) 9240 7887 F. (08) 9240 7890 E. actioninteriors@iinet.net.au www.actioninteriors.net.au

FORMWORK

CONCRETE

POLISHED FLOORS, WALLS, TOPPINGS AND BENCHTOPS ph. 0448 870 338 www.concretemode.com.au GLASS

Terry  Brown Managing  Director Mobile:  0407  733  822 Email:  terryscranes@iinet.net.au

Terry’s CRANE HIRE PTY LTD MARK  CRAIG

For all your crane hire needs 24 Hour Services

M. Â 0414 Â 411 Â 084 F. Â 08 Â 9405 Â 2188

For  all  crane  bookings,  please  contact  Michael  on:

P. 08 9279 7762 F. 08 9279 7742 PO Box 122, Glen Forrest WA 6071

GYMNASIUM EQUIPMENT

COMMERCIAL

GYMNASIUMS

Commerical Gymnasiums Quality equipment solutions

OUTDOOR COOLING SYSTEMS

Specialising in high pressure, mist technology for cooling, dust suppression, KXPLGLÀFDWLRQ DQG VSHFLDO HIIHFWV WR enhance environments.

Gym planning and advice

5HDVRQV WR &DOO &RRO0LVW for your misting and fogging requirements

Installation and onsite servicing

Innovative and effective technologies Technical expertise &XVWRPLVHG V\VWHP GHVLJQ Professional installation High-grade, quality products After sales service and support Environmentally friendly products

Leasing & finance available BALCATTA SHOWROOM

CALL

1/231 Balcatta Rd.

9345 0706

FLEETCOMMERCIAL.COM.AU

www.shelleyglass.com.au

PAINTERS & DECORATORS

PAINTERS & DECORATORS

Misting and Fogging Professionals since 2005

5(6,'(17,$/ ‡ &200(5&,$/ ‡ ,1'8675,$/

Deal directly with the misting experts 8QLW %DOFDWWD 5G %DOFDWWD 7 ) E. info@coolmist.com.au www.coolmist.com.au

140 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

Ph: (08) 6250 3888 Fax: (08) 9455 2919 19-21 Canvale Rd, Canning Vale WA 6155

R E S I D E N T I A L , Â C O M M E R C I A L Â & Â OW N E R Â B U I LD E RS

PHONE: 9201 0088 Domestic Commercial Interior Exterior Painting Decorating t 8F VTF UIF mOFTU RVBMJUZ QBJOU t %JTDPVOUT GPS TFOJPST t 'SFF RVPUFT QSPNQU TUBSU t ZST TFSWJDF MPDBMMZ

Call Chris PO 9275 2628 or 0419 909 771 F DISJT PSLPQPVMPT!CJHQPOE DPN

˜ ˜ ˜

THE BUILDERS CHOICE GLUHFWRU\ OLVWLQJ

E: henkkoers51@gmail.com M: 0409 688 369 F: (08) 9354 9265

DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL

FREE QUOTES ALL AREAS SCAFFOLDING

PLUMBING

PRINTERS

Specialising  in  Commercial  Ä‚ŜĚ EÄžÇ ZÄžĆ?Ĺ?ĚĞŜĆ&#x;Ä‚ĹŻ ,ŽžÄžĆ?

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T: (08) 9354 9556

PHOTOGRAPHY

Stephen Nicholls Pty Ltd

PAINTERS & DECORATORS

P.O. Pox 2166 Marmion 6020 Perth WA Australia P (08) 9203 5159 F (08) 9203 5659 M 0407 420 479

SCAFFOLDING

Ph: Â 08 Â 6253 Â 8156

Fax: Â 08 Â 6253 Â 8146

You will always get the very best with our high quality, competitive pricing and fast service.

PO  Box  1615,  Canning  Vale  WA  6970 Unit  2/21  Mordaunt  Circuit, Canning  Vale  WA  6155 www.vivianplumbing.com.au PL  6382    GL9617

TILING

CERTIFIED

T (08) 9478 3188

81 Acton Ave, Rivervale WA 6103 www.ateamprinting.com.au

TIMBER FLOOR INSTALLATIONS

Ins-­tile  Ceramics  &  Stone Pty  Ltd

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Wall & Floor Tiling Marble Travertine Granite Polished Porcelain Ceramic Tiles New Houses Renovations Concrete/Stone Grinding & Polishing Award Winning Projects Approved Applicator of Crommelin Waterproofing Systems

#VDLMFZ 4USFFU $PDLCVSO $FOUSBM 8" 1I 'BY &NBJM QFSUITDBGGPMEJOH!JJOFU OFU BV www.perthscaffolding.net.au

TRUCK & BOBCAT

Printing, copying, scanning and design solutions.

Martin Klonowski

0422 098 180

mtk8@bigpond.com TURF

WATERPROOFING

All aspects of Timber Flooring Construction and Renovation Residential and Commercial Planning, Installation, Maintenance

tel 0415 833 117

galaxytimber@gmail.com www.galaxytimberinstallations.com.au

WRITER

TOTALWATERPROOFING Services

SERVING YOU SINCE 1994

SERVICING

perth metro  area

More than 30 years experience Commercial waterproofing for all applications Internal waterproofing External waterproofing From basements to rooftops Liquid membranes to sheet membranes Mastic work, silicone work etc

Contact Us Today Ivo Peer Mob: 0405 322 426 Fax: 08 9403 5068 totalws@optusnet.com.au Adam Peer Mob: 0412 477 917

THE WRITE STUFF Norman Burns Freelance Writer Media Comunications PR www.thewritestuffmedia.com m: 0439 424 185 e: norman@normanburns.com

The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014 141

LEISURE

tradies corner

Sweet Creations F O R

REAL

SHOOTING

A L L

O C C A S I O N S

J AY M E T AY L O R / A M Y G L OV E R 0433 256 790 / 0415 239 976 info@sweetcreationsforalloccasions .com w w w. s w e e t c r e a t i o n s f o r a l l o c c a i o n s . c o m

REAL

Facebook.com/SCforalloccasions

GUNS

We offer you the thrill of learning to shoot D YDULHW\ RI ULĂ HV VKRWJXQV UHYROYHUV and semi auto pistols in the security of our indoor complex. We cater for &RUSRUDWH *URXSV Bucks and Hens Parties.

107-109 Robinson Ave BELMONT WA 6014 TEL (+618) 9277 9200 FAX (+618) 9277 9211

www.lrsc.net.au 142 The Builders Choice Magazine – March 2014

FULFILLING CUSTOMER LIFESTYLE CERAMICS THAT INSPIRE Ceramo: A lifestyle concept of vision, beauty and comfort created through spaces characterised by state of the art ceramic products. Sourced from the very best international tile manufacturers and presented in a new concept environment that inspires both creative and innovative design for all interior spaces.

Rectified Wall Tile: 333x1000 Suede Taupe

Latest release from the Porcelanosa Group Suede Taupe offers a stunning sculpted look and soft feel with all the easy clean and no maintenance characteristics of ceramic.

19b King Edward Rd, Osborne Park WA 6017 P: (08) 9445 1777 E: info@ceramo.com.au

www.ceramo.com.au

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