Project Overview
Hutchinson Builders have recently completed two new 8-storey commercial buildings and a two level basement that will support commercial and retail facilities. These buildings are part of an ongoing successful overall construction program that contributes to the four year master plan for the South Bank precinct.
Challenges
The master plan for this precinct created a need to underpin existing new buildings asstructures were introduced over the four year period. This created careful excavation and ongoing removal of materials with busy traffic flows and building activity in the immediate vicinity.
Community consultation with new tenancies and building owners was a high priority to ensure the client was not penalised for excessive disruption to existing property tenants.
Success Factors
A collaborative ‘open book’ approach with the client allowed full disclosure of costings and engendered a non-adversarial approach to pending changes during the construction period.
This approach extended to the trade contractors and fostered a reduction in penalty rates for design changes. The result was a fast tracked building supported by trade contractors ready to commence and change direction with a minimal amount of problems.
Value Added
In conjunction with the client the contract was agreed and managed as a design and construct process. This allowed for flexibility during the building process dependant upon expected tenancy and occupancy requirements.
During the construction period and working closely with the client an upgraded fit-out achieved a 5-Star green rating.