2022
$20M
Sunshine, VIC
Project Details
5040sqm
2
5040m
Attributes
Overview
The complex conversion of unused retail space into A-grade office accommodation within Melbourne's thriving west. Anchored in flexible working practices and sustainable design excellence, this project earned a 5-star NABERS Energy Rating.
Higgins came onboard through an ECI arrangement, managing the transformation of a former Dimmeys store into an engaging and accessible office space for a government occupant.
Across two levels, the new workplace interweaves expansive open-plan zones with various meeting rooms, touch-down areas, informal hybrid working spaces and communal zones. We introduced a mezzanine level on the southern point, adding 829sqm of extra floor area.
We removed over 50% of the existing roof from the mezzanine level, replacing it with a new double sawtooth roof over the southernmost mezzanine and a double-height void with curtain wall glazing to provide a 165 square metre internal courtyard garden, complete with native ecology and timber decking. The shopping centre context left minimal opportunity for external planting, so we integrated internal seating planting to increase the presence of nature.
An environmentally conscious design underscores the modernised interiors and material refinement, with sustainability, resilience, and enhanced well-being as core considerations. It possesses model ecological and energy-use credentials, achieving a 5-star NABERS Energy Rating and is VGOBBS compliant.
Retrofitted full-height glazing insertions into the existing precast walls along the north, west and east elevations and clerestory windows on the mezzanine level introduce daylight into the deep plan. The LowE tempered insulated glazing limits UV and IR light exposure without comprising visible light and reduces the load on air-conditioning. Additionally, 872 photovoltaic panels on the office’s roof generate half of its energy, and a new 60,000-litre rainwater harvesting system. Other green measures include low-carbon materials, smart controls, end-of-trip facilities, EV charging, and adopting a circular economy approach to strip-out, design and procurement.
We re-worked the basement carpark, creating a new vertical lift and lobby, stairs, exhaust flue and motorbike parking, enclosed by four motorised gates.
By employing eco-friendly strategies, the space is both accessible and engaging for its end-users. The COVID-19 era underscored the profound human yearning for genuine social connections and great amenities in the workplace. This project addresses this need, emerging as a meticulously crafted space that deeply considers work-life integration.
Quick Facts
Workstations
350
New mezzanine level
829sqm
Storm water tank installed
60,000L
Of existing roof removed
to create internal courtyard
50%
Solar PV panels re-installed
872
Services are elegantly suspended from the ceiling, housed within our inventive Unistrut-based solution which enabled the seamless installation of the acoustic panels. This approach allowed us to incorporate bracing members throughout, ensuring both structural integrity and aesthetic coherence.
Process
Navigating an aging structure and evolving design requirements to deliver compliance.
Plan.
Approach & Value Adding
- Under an ECI arrangement, we led our consultant team to finalise the design, including an extensive value management exercise to achieve our client's desired budget.
- We approached the project in two stages: Stage 1 involved service isolation, demolition, air monitoring, and strip out works and Stage 2 included the conversation of the base build shell and integrated fit-out works.
- We divided our site into seven individual work zones to assist in trade coordination. Our strategy was effective, enabling trades to complete works in certain areas and start in other areas earlier than expected.
- Before commencing Stage 2, we led another value management process which uncovered an array of cost-saving opportunities across items like fittings and fixtures, glazing and flooring. For example, our proposed alternative acoustic panel not only reduced lead times but also provided a credit back to our client.
Drive.
Key Challenges
- The biggest challenge was in managing an evolving design during our active construction program. We incorporated many changes throughout employing various acceleration strategies to minimise delays.
- The extensive fitout scope included bespoke, high-spec fittings and finishes, which required meticulous trade management.
- During the demolition and new roofing works, we located several leaks and damaged areas that needed to be removed and replaced. We repurposed offcuts and leftover sheets from the new roof to rectify these issues for our client in good faith. We also formed the courtyard decking and stair treads from reclaimed timber.
- We managed all construction works within the active shopping centre precinct.
- To achieve the layout of all suspended, under slung services required significant coordination between Higgins and our consultants and subcontractors.
Deliver.
Project Outcomes
- Transformed an unused space into a modern and flexible workplace with 350 workstations.
- Introduced a new mezzanine level, providing 829sqm of additional floor space for workstations.
- Various meeting and breakout spaces, including a new 165sqm internal courtyard with outdoor seating and landscaping.
- An 88sqm extension to the north side of the building to accommodate bicycle storage and expansive end of trip facilities.
- The re-worked basement carpark includes a new vertical
lift and lobby, stairs, exhaust flue and motorbike parking, protected with secured via four motorised gates. - New 60,000L rainwater harvesting system.
- Significant refurbishment works to enhance the existing building structure, including a roof replacement, ensuring a future-proof design compliant with current standards.