Welcome to the latest issue of Construction Source Australia, the magazine that highlights the best of the best in building and building products across the country. This time out, our spotlight has found REP Builders – an awardwinning boutique building and property development company that has been servicing Canberra and the surrounding areas for over 17 years. In that time, they have steadily developed and maintained a reputation built on trust, honesty, and the ability to deliver the highest level of building projects. Today, their experienced team – led by Director Robert Paragalli and business partner Joe Whitfield – is well known in the region for their unwavering commitment to excellence. We spoke to Robert about that commitment, their corresponding reputation, and about some of their recent award victories, including their 2023 MBA ACT Award in the ‘Medium Density Dual Occupancy / Habitable Suite’ category. Another award-winning and longstanding company featured in these pages is Hanssen – Western Australia’s largest apartment builder specialising in high-rise buildings. Since forming in Perth over 30 years ago, they have completed more than 6,000 apartments, they have grown into a 56,000-square-metre head office and yard facility, and they have come to employ approximately 600 highly-trained, multi-skilled team members. Over their 30-plus-year history, Hannsen also won a consistent stream of industry award and accolades – most recently, at the 2023 UDIA Awards they were a finalist in the ‘High Density’ category for their work on AT238, which is a 32-storey highrise complex with 121 luxury apartment units, located in the heart of East Perth’s historical hub. We talked to Darren Linton, Managing Director, about that project, about Hanssen’s many innovations (such as their use of the innovative BubbleDeck system in all their projects), and about the “three principles for great business” that have powered the company’s longevity and growth. Also featured within is Brett Ward Homes – yet another longstanding and award-winning building company, in their case based on the Gold Coast. Over the 23-year history, they have completed well over 200 homes, have won a long list of HIA Awards, and they have been featured in the TV series ‘Australia’s Best Houses.’ We caught up with Brett’s wife Kristy, who runs the office and has been there from the start. She talked to us about what it means to be “the quintessential multi-generation Australian family building company” and about some of their recent standout jobs. We have other stories too, on more innovative and bar-raising developers, builders, and subcontractors from across Australia. For more, just keep reading. All the best, The Editorial Team We will keep adding business units that enhance our offering and separate us from our competition. “ ” Editor From The Dear Reader,
The Construction Source Australia
DECEMBER 2023
The Construction Source Australia With a readership exceeding 136,000 senior executives, The Construction Source Australia takes immense pride in providing an enticing platform to amplify your message to the most pivotal audience – your valued customers. Whether your aim is to promote an exciting new condo development, attract crucial financial investments for upcoming projects, or establish a commanding brand presence, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. To explore opportunities for featuring your company or showcasing your latest project in The Construction Source Australia, please reach out to our Group Publisher. Jermaine Poulsen e:info@theconstructionsource.com.au The Construction Source Australia Suite 11.01, Level 11, 175 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia info@theconstructionsource.com.au ABN: 42 976 059 923 Executive Publisher Jermaine Poulsen COO Alexandra Box Editor in Chief Zach Janes Director of Operations Scott Carter Business Development Managers Rondal Gardner Director of Production Vicki Lee Digital Strategist Pranim Thapa Administration Manager Belyn Quijance-Dorero
DECEMBER 2023 Industry INNOVATIONS Product of the Month The Kights Scanner REP BUILDING Built to last HANSSEN Standing the test of time CA ARCHITECTS Always looking ahead ISMART BUILDING GROUP Leading the Way in Western Australia Passive Home Construction BRETT WARD HOMES Luxury Specialists BLACK PEARL HOMES Offers Luxury Living in Perth ALIYA HOMES Brings Custom Designs in Knock Down Rebuild to Melbourne IN THIS ISSUE DECEMBER 2023 ALIYA HOMES CA ARCHITECTS
The Construction Source Australia A product designed by Cosentino® On Top Cindy Crawford on Silestone Eternal Calacatta Gold TOPS ON TOP Feel the new velvety texture Discover more at silestone.com | Follow Us F T VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS IN Adelaide | Auckland | Brisbane | Melbourne | Perth | Sydney
DECEMBER 2023 Aluminum expected to accelerate worldwide adoption of electric and self-driving vehicles Material takes on an ever-widening role in tomorrow’s vehicles For more than a decade, concerns about fuel efficiency have been encouraging OEMS to replace steel with aluminum on vehicle bodies, doors, trunks, hoods, bumpers, crash boxes, brakes, cables and wheels. With the advent of electric and autonomous vehicles, OEMs worldwide are discovering new uses for aluminum. The need for battery casings and heat exchangers in electric vehicles, combined with autonomous vehicles’ demands for high visibility and structural integrity, is expected to exponentially increase the use of sheet aluminum in tomorrow’s cars, trucks and buses. Supporting the transition to battery-powered vehicles Four major design challenges confront OEMs in their transition to electric vehicles. Extending vehicle range Improving battery and passenger safety Increasing passenger comfort Optimizing cooling systems for lithium-ion batteries The substitution of sheet aluminum for steel helps resolve OEM concerns. Industry INNOVATIONS
The Construction Source Australia The lighter the vehicle, the longer its range. According to Ducker Worldwide, aluminum is expected to contribute more than half of the anticipated vehicle mass reduction demanded by electric vehicles (EVs) to extend range. Ducker reports that in North America alone, aluminum content in EVs will increase to nearly 565 pounds (256 kilgrams) per vehicle by 2028. The larger the vehicle, the heavier the battery and casing required to optimize the EV’s range. It is the larger EVs, i.e., sedans, SUVs, taxis, trucks and buses, that will realize the greatest benefits from a steel-to-aluminum conversion. In the U.S., a vehicle’s gross weight determines which class of commercial driver’s license (CDL) will be required. Without lightweighting, some EVs could demand a higher-class license or additional endorsements due to the added weight of the battery. In older European cities like Brussels or London, some bridges and tunnels only allow vehicles up to 3.5 tons in weight, a target that is very difficult to meet for larger EVs without lightweighting. For heavier material transport EVs such as trucks, weight reduction enables an increased payload, providing a significant monetary benefit. Generally, the larger the vehicle, the higher the payback. Particularly relevant for larger human transport EVs such as buses and taxis, the weight reduction made possible through aluminum provides the added benefit of reduced CO2 emissions and improved air quality, of value not only to vehicle operators, but to the communities they serve. The thermal and anti-corrosion properties of aluminum make it ideal for battery frames. Sea-water resistant, highly formable, highly surfaced aluminum alloys provide the strength necessary to pass side-impact crashworthiness testing, protecting passengers and the battery should impact occur. Casing floor plates made out of aluminum are not only strong, but also capable of resisting corrosion related to weather exposure. These characteristics enable aluminum battery casings to resist weather-related deterioration and impact from road debris, minimizing the risk of related fires and further securing passenger safety. Optimizing battery and human safety Extending range Dispersing heat The batteries used in EVs produce energy while charging and decharging, requiring the use of heat exchangers to dissipate heat. But the types of heat exchangers used in vehicle air conditioning systems are inadequate to meet this new challenge. Aluminum clad brazing (which connects multiple layers of aluminum together to disperse heat) requires heating in a controlled atmosphere (e.g., a vacuum) to achieve optimum joining. Aluminum heat exchangers designed specifically to meet the challenges presented by electric vehicles can use as many as five types of aluminum sandwiched together, with the layers providing gradient properties to optimize cooling. These specialized processes and materials address OEM concerns, ensuring adequate dissipation of the heat generated by battery-powered vehicles. An experienced aluminum processing partner can help OEMs specify the right process and alloys to meet specific vehicle temperature thresholds, ideally working side by side with OEM engineers early in the design process to maximize the performance of electric vehicles. IT IS THE LARGER EVS, I.E, SEDANS, SUVS, TAXIS, TRUCKS AND BUSES, THAT WILL REALIZE THE GREATEST BENEFITS FROM A STEEL -TO-ALUMINUM CONVERSION .
DECEMBER 2023 The luxury sedan market will likely be the first to transition to self-driving electric vehicles. Passenger comfort and safety, and an expansive view of the surrounding environment, are expected to be top priorities for this market. The hefty B pillars used in conventional vehicles to meet structural requirements for crashworthiness are undesirable in a self-driving scenario. To enable large windows and an unobstructed view without sacrificing passenger safety, lightweight aluminum will be the strong material of choice. Supporting the eventual transition to autonomous vehicles In addition to the design challenges presented by EVs, society’s demand for sustainable solutions will likely continue to be a driver in the transition to aluminum-lightweighted vehicles. A Forschungsgesellschaft Kraftfahrwesen mbH Aachen (fka) study, using a Volkswagen Golf as its reference vehicle, determined that an electric aluminum-based vehicle could meet the same safety standards as its steelbased equivalent, while emitting 1.5 tons less greenhouse gases over its lifecycle, taking into consideration production, a total driving distance of more than 93,000 miles (150,000 kilometers) and eventual recycling. Ongoing environmental concerns Conclusion Aluminum alloys are ideally suited to the design challenges presented by electric and autonomous vehicles. By aligning with aluminum partners deeply experienced in developing processes and alloys to meet demanding performance requirements, transportation vehicle OEMs are accelerating the pace of EV and self-driving vehicle adoption throughout North America. .
The Construction Source Australia
DECEMBER 2023 Business World Australia
The Construction Source Australia Business Worl d Australia
Built to last
DECEMBER 2023
REP Building is a multi Award winning boutique building and property development company that has been servicing Canberra and surrounding areas for over 17 years. In that time, they have steadily developed and maintained a reputation built on trust, honesty, and the ability to deliver the highest level of building projects. Today, their experienced team – led by Director Robert Paragalli and business partner Joe Whitfield – is well known in the region for their “unwavering commitment to excellence.” “We take pride in all our work and understand that clients expect the very best from their investment,” says Robert Paragalli, who started the company in 2008. “Our service philosophy and processes are designed to deliver not just a beautiful home, but spaces that bring the clients’ vision to life, homes they can be proud of. Our aim is to build homes that last a lifetime.” Robert was born and raised in Canberra, and he began his career in the mechanical engineering industry and construction. While working for other companies, he was involved in some very large projects, some of which took his work overseas. In 2005, he decided to start his own business running a property maintenance business as well as doing small projects such as decks, pergolas, and minor renovations. Three years later, after earning his builders license, he graduated to building new homes larger extensions and additions and officially formed REP Building. In 2016, Robert was joined by Joe Whitfield, who became a partner in the company. Joe came equipped with roughly 15 years of carpentry experience and is also a licensed builder. Under their dual leadership, REP Building has grown quickly in terms of both size and reputation, earning recognition in a number of industry publications, as well as a number of recent awards and accolades from bodies including the Master Builders Association THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
(MBA) and Housing Industry Association of Australia (HIA). Today, REP Building focuses on building brand new custom homes for clients, with values ranging from $500,000 to $3.5 million. They also occasionally develop and build their own projects. When it comes to both types of projects, the company primarily works in established residential markets in Canberra and the surrounding areas. According to Robert, clients within that niche choose REP for a variety of reasons. He believes the main reason, however, is their ability to build trust with clients. “Marketing yourself as a builder can be difficult,” he says, “because it’s all about convincing people that you’re going to do what you tell them you’re going to do. The only way to do that is to build trust.” “So we build trust by being consistent,” he emphasises. “We’re consistent in our dayto-day running of the business. We’re consistent about the way we present ourselves on site and social media. For example, we don’t show ourselves on a construction site one day, and the next day we show a shiny finished project. We purposely don’t do that. We want prospective clients to have a realistic picture of what they’re going to get. We want them to trust us.” It’s only through building trust, Robert explains, that the company can truly differentiate themselves from their competitors: “It’s very difficult to market how we’re different when everybody is saying the same thing. Everybody says they build quality. Everybody says they are trustworthy. Everybody says they are loyal. Everybody says they are the best builder. You have to prove it.” DECEMBER 2023
Proven, reliable, committed. Experience exceptional service and expertise from sales to property management with Seminara & Co - bringing you a better property experience. Lou Seminara, Director, Phone: 0419 604 302 Email: Lou@seminaraandco.com.au Website: seminaracoproperties.com.au THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
Over their 17-plus years in business, Robert believes that REP Building has proven it. That belief is bolstered by the company’s long list of glowing customer testimonials, their history of referrals and repeat work, and their portfolio of high quality finished projects – some of which were completed over a decade ago, but still look great due to the company’s commitment to building with durability and longevity in mind. Also, REP Building is still operating under the same name they did when they were founded in 2008. Robert points out how meaningful that is: “A lot of builders have shifted from one name to another or from one company to another. I think it’s a testament to a building company when they can proudly say they have been established for over 17 years. That shows they are reputable, experienced, and professional and you can trust them.” “A lot of building companies are good,” Robert adds, “but for how long have they been good? Have they been consistently good for 17 years? I think that’s what one thing that sets us apart. We’re consistently good. We never want to be taken to court for dodgy workmanship or litigated against for defaulting on a contract. We always want to deliver the product we say we’re going to deliver, and we always deliver it to a really high standard.” Many of REP Buildings’ subcontractors and suppliers enjoy similarly strong reputations in their local community, and REP has built relationships with most of them that go back many years. That loyalty further contributes to the company’s quality consistency. For example, REP Building has a longstanding relationship with Grindstones Reflections, DECEMBER 2023
a local leader in the floor grinding and polishing industry. Much like REP Building, they are a company with a small but highly-efficient team that considers communication, relationship-building, and highquality work as the pillars of their success. They are led by Jake Plunkett, an experienced industry expert with over 10 years’ experience handing over beautiful, high-quality floors to local clients. Another key partner would be Seminara & Co Properties (S&CO) – they are a locallyowned real estate company that works with a diverse range of clients, and they provide the same high level of service, experience, and expertise to every one of them. S&CO was founded by Lou Seminara, who – similar to Robert – started his company with the goal of providing a higher level of service than the industry standard. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
For much of the company’s history, REP Building didn’t submit for industry awards. They had done some projects that they definitely felt were worthy of them, but Robert says that’s not how he wanted to build the company’s reputation – “we wanted to prove ourselves through hard work and commitment, we wanted to create strong word of mouth, and we wanted to grow organically,” he explains. By 2021, however, the company’s sterling reputation in their community had already been cemented. The company was ready to submit for their first award, and they chose a recently-completed residence in Kaleen. That residence subsequently won the MBA ACT Award for ‘Custom Build $750,000 to $1 million.’ “We were rebranding ourselves at the time and we wanted to do some marketing,” Robert Industry recognised At Kinsella our clients don’t see us just as an accountant - we are their partner. Do you know how your business is going? Are you meeting your budget? Could you improve your margins, be more efficient? These are just some things we look at with our business performance and CFO advisory service. We can provide you the guidance and advice of an experienced CFO, but only when and how you need it. Whether you are looking to grow, or just keep up with your compliance requirements, our team of experts can help. LEVEL 2 26 BRISBANE AVENUE BARTON ACT 2600, PO BOX 4866, KINGSTON, ACT 2604 Phone: +61 2 6262 6655 | Fax: +61 2 6262 6677 Email: alex.breen@kinsella.com.au | Website: www.kinsella.com.au DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
recalls, “so we thought it was finally time to enter for MBA awards. It turns out on our very first try, we took one out.” That home went on to be a strong contender at the national MBA awards later in 2021 – “we didn’t win that, but from what I understand we were very close,” Robert says. “That was a really nice reward for the guys that had been with me for a while,” he adds. “It showed them the kind of homes that we produce. It showed them the kind of quality we were really achieving.” The next year, at the 2022 HIA and MBA ACT Awards, REP Building added to their awards tally with wins from multiple industry bodies. For example, they won ‘Kitchen Project under $50,000’ with the MBA and they took out the HIA ‘Bathroom of the Year’ award for their beautiful home in Griffith. That award-winning bathroom featured large format porcelain tiles, luxury fixtures and fittings and a two-way gas fireplace to give the owners the feeling of living in a luxurious hotel every day they wake up. Most recently, at the 2023 MBA ACT Awards, REP Building continued their award-winning streak with a win in the ‘Medium Density Dual Occupancy / Habitable Suite’ category. That project was located in Kaleen, and the interiors were designed by Studio Black Interiors, who also designed the company’s first award-winning home in 2021. In their comments, the judges praised that latest awardwinning project for displaying DECEMBER 2023
“thoughtful design and detailed planning combined with incredible craftsmanship.” They also praised REP Building and Studio Black for overcoming the challenges of a steep block through a split-level design and “consistent attention to detail.” The judges further commended the project for its “outstanding thermal performance and energy efficiency.” That performance was achieved through non-combustible, interlocking cladding panels with concealed fixings along with quality wall wraps and insulations. They also installed mechanical ventilation to the substructure, which allowed for airflow and circulation behind the cladding. To the same end, the project team also installed thermally broken double-glazed windows, solar panels, and low VOC finishes, and they solely utilised high-quality materials that were selected to stand the test of time. For his part, Robert is particularly proud of that award because of the category they won. In the future, he says REP Building is looking to do more high quality multi-unit projects, and this victory proves that the company can achieve the same quality on multi-residential projects that they can achieve on single-family homes. Moving forward, REP Building is also looking to grow – but to grow organically, “on the back of hard work and determination,” Robert says. “Over the years, we’ve ridden the ups and downs,” he says. “We’ve been through the GFC, we’ve been through downturns in markets, we’ve been through THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
bushfires and COVID – and we’ve come out stronger and more experienced on the other side. Now we want to keep growing organically, one small step at a time. Along the way, we want to keep improving all aspects of the business.” Lastly, as they grow, REP Building is also considering expanding geographically – and they believe their project management tools can help with that, as those tools allow them to have real-time access to all the project information they could want, no matter where they are in the country or the world. “Everything is integrated in our software,” Robert explains. “We can closely monitor every individual project; we can keep track of all the details. The clients can monitor their projects too, they can interact with us if they have questions or concerns, and we can get back to them right away.” “I think that opens up some new doors for us,” he adds. “With this kind of system in place, we can work remotely. We can potentially expand our business beyond the Canberra market. We can potentially go anywhere we want.” “However, first of all we want to make sure we have the Canberra market covered,” he says. “We want to make sure our business is strong in Canberra; that our quality is the highest it can be and that our customers are getting everything they need from us. Once we’re sure of that, we’ll think about expansion.” DECEMBER 2023 INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO www.studioblack.com.au | info@studioblack.com.au | 0410 501 729
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on REP Building, including their services, projects, and past client reviews, get in touch with Robert, Joe, and their team by visiting https://www.repbuilding.com.au
Standing the test of time
DECEMBER 2023 WESTERN AUSTRALIA’S MOST TRUSTED SUPPLIER Plasterboard, Building systems, Wall and Ceiling materials and Quality tools and accessories. WA Direct stocks a vast range of materials which includes BGC’s GTEK™ plasterboard products, Knauf Earthwool Insulation, Studco Metal Building Systems, BGC Fibre Cement, AMF Ceiling Panels and Hume doors. WA Direct Plasterboard is a family owned and operated business specialising in the provision of plasterboard and building materials throughout Western Australia. WA DIRECT IS A MAJOR DISTRIBUTOR FOR THE LOCALLY MANUFACTURED GTEK™ RANGE OF PREMIUM QUALITY PLASTERBOARDS. For more information contact WA Direct at 250 Welshpool Rd, Welshpool WA 6106 (08) 9458 2965 admin@directplasterboard.com.au
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA GTEK™ Wall is an interior wall lining system for residential and commercial applications. GTEK™ Curve is a thin flexible plasterboard that can be used to create curves on interior walls and ceilings. GTEK™ Ceiling is a 10mm plasterboard sheet designed specifically for ceiling use. GTEK™ Cornice adds exciting finishing touches to interior wall and ceiling joints. GTEK™ Fire is used in fire-rated systems, consisting of single or multiple board layers. GTEK™ Fire & Wet Area is used in wet areas governed by fire resistance limitations (FRLs). GTEK™ Wet Area is a water-resistant plasterboard for walls in wet areas. GTEK™ Sound is high-density plasterboard specifically designed to reduce unwanted noise. GTEK™ Impact is ideal for high-traffic areas where walls are subjected to regular stress. GTEK™ Total Plus offers market-leading fire, water, sound and impact resistance. All GTEK™ plasterboards are manufactured with an advanced fire-resistant core, which can significantly slow down the spread of flames and reduce the amount of smoke produced during a fire. WA Direct proudly supplied the full range of GTEK™ plasterboards and accessories to these more recent Hanssen projects: AT238, Civic Heart and the Aurora. gtekplasterboard.com.au (08) 9374 2900 For more information contact GTEK™ Plasterboard at 290 Bushmead Road, Hazelmere, WA 6055 GTEK™ Plasterboard range:
Established over 70 years ago, WA Direct is proud to have grown to become one of Western Australia’s most trusted suppliers of plasterboard, building systems, wall and ceiling materials and quality tools and accessories. From their humble beginnings in 1950, they have evolved to employ over 40 staff with branches in Welshpool and Kalgoorlie. Their dedicated team ensures that every customer receives the very best service and advice. And with a fleet of 15 trucks at their disposal, they are also able to deliver goods anywhere, anytime. For over three decades, WA Direct has been a major distributor for the locally-manufactured GTEK™ range of premium quality plasterboards. GTEK™ plasterboards are recognised for their strength and versatility that can be tailored to meet the specific needs for both commercial and residential projects. Over the years, WA Direct and GTEK™ Plasterboard have cultivated a steadfast partnership rooted in professionalism, reliability, industry expertise, and staff proactiveness. This collaborative spirit, coupled with exceptional communication, mutual respect, and unwavering support, has paved the way for outstanding customer outcomes. Overall, WA Direct is a valued partner of BGC Plasterboard, and both companies benefit from their strong relationship. As the largest plasterboard manufacturer in WA, BGC Plasterboard ensures a consistent and reliable supply of plasterboard products, meeting WA Direct's demanding needs and minimizing stockouts. This means that WA Direct can always count on having the plasterboard they need in stock, even during peak demand periods. BGC Plasterboard stock holding capacity provides distributors with a competitive edge, allowing them to always offer their customers high-quality, reliable, and sustainable building solutions. DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
DECEMBER 2023
Hanssen is Western Australia’s largest apartment builder specialising in high-rise buildings. Since forming in Perth over 30 years ago, they have completed more than 6,000 apartments, they have grown into a 56,000-squaremetre head office and yard facility, and they have come to employ approximately 600 highly-trained, multi-skilled team members. Under the continued leadership and vision of Gerry Hanssen, company founder and executive director, the company is still growing to this day – and as they grow, they are committed to improving. Their goal is to stay ahead of their developers through the development and implementation of unique working and training models, to continue training the next generation of tradies, workers, and builders, and to continue building the most economical and efficient highrise residential apartment developments in the state. “For more than three decades, Hanssen has worked diligently to become specialists in the management and construction of large-scale building developments,” says Darren Linton, Managing Director. “This is achieved with effective co-ordination and co-operation, working together for the best outcome of the project.” “Over the years, our company has been instrumental in shaping the WA landscape through our unique, highquality developments, which has helped cement our reputation as Perth’s building company of choice.” That industry reputation, Darren explains, has been hard-earned, and the team at Hanssen doesn’t take it for granted. When Gerry Hanssen set up the company 30 years ago, he spoke to a construction lawyer who advised him that only five per cent of registered builders last 20 years in the industry. In the years since, the industry has only gotten more challenging, which makes Hanssen’s longevity “a great achievement.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
“We’ve stood the test of time,” Darren says. “We’re still here today and we still have so much more room to improve.” When Hanssen started, the company comprised three people working out of a small office in South Perth. As the years progressed, they expanded first into Burswood, and later to Belmont, where they started doing their fabrication and manufacturing. In 2013, they finally moved to their current 56,000-squaremetre facility in Hazelmere, where they still operate from today. They now primarily build in the Perth inner city area, but they have completed projects from Mandurah, to Hazelmere, to the northwest in Karratha. Over the years, as Hanssen has grown in size, they have also grown in terms of their service offering and capabilities. Today, they are “a true builder,” Darren says, “in the sense that we own a large amount of material, plant, machinery, scaffolding, and even tower cranes.” Today, Hanssen is equipped with their own precast and BubbleDeck factory (more on that later), window factory, steel fabrication, and in-house mechanics to service and maintain all their plant and equipment. They also have their own design team, which includes architects, engineers, and drafters – and that team works closely with Hanssen’s site teams and the teams in their factories. Speaking of site teams, Hanssen also employs a roster of service teams – with plumbing, electrical, communications, mechanical, and HVAC capabilities, all under one roof. Again, those teams work closely with the company’s design team, which enables early design collaboration, which often results in more optimized solutions and cost-savings for their solutions. “Although it is more responsibility, having all these areas in house enables us to have more control,” Darren explains. “Rather than working individually or against each other, we co-operate and resolve issues quickly which in turn allows us to build more efficiently.” DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
Earlier this year, Hanssen completed work on ‘AT238,’ which is a 32-storey highrise complex with 121 luxury apartment units, located in the heart of East Perth’s historical hub. According to Darren, it was “one of the most challenging projects in our time,” as it commenced during the height of COVID and the start of the associated labour and material issues. “This forced us to change and adapt, looking for alternative products and other means of finding skilled workers,” Darren recalls. “We still managed to finish in less than two years and deliver a project which was a finalist in the ‘High-Rise’ category at the UDIA awards. Considering reported issues with other residential housing projects taking up to three-tofour years to build, this was a great achievement from the management team and all involved.” Building opportunities DECEMBER 2023
YEARS Following up on the success of that project, Hanssen currently has three more projects under construction, including ‘Civic Heart’ in South Perth, ‘Aurora’ in Applecross, and ‘The Point’ in Rivervale. Civic Heart is going to be the company’s largest project to date and the tallest building in Perth outside the CBD. It comprises two towers with the taller tower rising to 38 storeys, and both towers consisting of 324 combined units. The company expects to complete construction by mid-next-year, and then launch Aurora and The Point shortly after. “So next year will be a big year in completed new apartments, which is clearly a high priority with the Government as the supply of new dwellings is trending downwards,” Darren says. AT238 was developed by Finbar, one of Western Australia’s largest and most trusted apartment developers. Finbar is also the developer behind all three of Hanssen’s ongoing and upcoming projects. The project team on all those jobs also includes S.S. Chang Architects, one of Perth’s leading apartment designers. Hanssen has enjoyed longstanding relationships with both those companies: “We are a unique team that has worked together for over 25 years,” Darren says. “We coordinate, we co-operate, and we’re all driven by a common goal – which is providing better lifestyles and homes for our buyers.” “Working relationships are very important to Hanssen at all levels of our business,” he adds. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
“We also have longstanding relationships with trusted suppliers who have performed well for us over the years, and we understand it goes both ways. Post-COVID, during the times of materials shortages, we managed to not be impacted too greatly because we were working with suppliers who we have built trust with.” “We stand by three principles for great business: price, quality, and service,” he says. “When working with various companies, we always keep these three principles in mind.” Darren believes that enduring commitment is a big part of why a partner like Finbar continues the working relationship. He also says that other points of difference include: their meticulously-designed working guide; their history of award recognition; the way they empower and motivate their staff; and their use of the innovative BubbleDeck system in all their projects. Firstly, there’s the company’s working guide, known as the ‘Hanssen Standard Details’ (HSD). Using that guide, the company is able to educate workers with step-by-step instructions containing pictures and words, ensuring that every worker has the knowledge needed to do a job safely and efficiently, no matter their experience level. “Think of it as a complete set of IKEA instructions on how to build a building,” Darren says. “It’s a unique but simple manual that teaches safe and efficient procedures from everything from excavation, to hanging doors, to carpet install and landscaping – all the way to DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
installing and dismantling our tower cranes.” “The HSD is issued to each worker – either as a soft copy on their phone or a hard copy on-site,” he continues. “This ensures tried-and-tested practices and materials are followed, and opinions and arguments are removed. The HSD is also continuously updated as new materials come to market or better methods are agreed upon.” As previously mentioned, that method of quality control has helped Hanssen earn a consistent stream of industry awards and accolades. Most recently, for example, they were a finalist at the 2023 Urban Development Industry of Australia (UDIA) Awards in the ‘High Density’ category for their work on AT238. That’s just one of many awards, commendations, and finalist nods that the company has received from the UDIA over the years. Hanssen has not only been recognized for the quality of their work, however. In 2021, they were also commended by ‘Ngalla Maya Aboriginal Employment Access,’ which is an Aboriginal corporation that seeks to provide education, employment and training services to the Aboriginal people of Western Australia. They recognized Hanssen for their support and employment of Aboriginal men and women. In 2019, Hanssen was also named ‘Host Employer of the Year’ at the Apprentice Employment Network Awards.” “In our time, we have trained over 1,500 apprentices in 30 DECEMBER 2023
years,” Darren explains. “That’s an average of 50 a year.” Training apprentices at that volume, Darren adds, is a key part of how Hanssen has combated the industry’s ongoing labour shortage: “Hanssen gives everyone an opportunity and our system allows good people to come through. The question I receive the most recently was ‘how are you dealing with the labour shortage?’ Nearing our peak of 700 workers we have had to look outside the square and adapt to market conditions.” “A program which we are still running is giving selected exprisoners an opportunity to work and change their lives,” he adds. “Some of them are now leading hands in their area. We started this in 2018 with a small group. During COVID it really took off but our culture had to be right, our sites had to be drug and alcohol free and the support network had to be in place.” “We also approached a TAFE where Gerry did a presentation and offered engineering students who couldn’t get work an opportunity to work in our factory and design department. Funnily enough, these students couldn’t find work as they lacked experience – something too common in all workplaces.” Currently, Hanssen has close to 100 apprentices across all their sites and yard. Across the board they have a range of ages, from 16 to 85. Their last count of different nationalities was 60, and they also have above average female workers on their sites because they encourage more to join.” Darren admits there is a cost to all the training they do. He says they often hear others in the industry say that cost is prohibitive, that “you can’t afford to train.” Hanssen, however, takes the opposite view – “we say you can’t afford not to train.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
Yet one more factor that sets Hanssen apart from their competitors is their aforementioned use of the BubbleDeck system in all their projects. BubbleDeck is a precast biaxial concrete floor system, which makes floor slabs lighter and stronger by incorporating large, hollow recycled plastic balls in a lattice of steel. Using BubbleDeck can make a building overall 30 per cent lighter – and lighter structures mean limitedto-no beams, larger columns spans, smaller footings or rafts, and the possibility of offsite manufacturing. BubbleDeck’s 100-per-centrecycled plastic air-filled balls also reduce the amount of nonstructural concrete required. For example, on Civic Heart alone it is saving up to 16,000 cubic metres of concrete. That means 2250 fewer concrete trucks heading to site and as a summary saving 4300 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Always improving DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
Hanssen was the first company to introduce and use the BubbleDeck system in Australia and New Zealand. Moving forward, the company’s goal is to continue pursuing those kinds of innovations and to continue playing a leading role in their industry. “Against the odds of the market, we’re going to keep doing what we are doing,” Darren concludes. “Stay in our lane and always look at improving. The COVID years seem like a long dark tunnel but we always believed if we get to the other end, we will be a lot better for it. We are always loyal to Finbar and respect our history but we are not closed to new opportunities, if our goals align.” “We are aware of the number of building companies falling over Australia wide and the industry as a whole needed change,” he adds. “Hanssen is lucky to have a system that Gerry has created from 55 years’ experience in the industry.” “One of our previous goals was to build the tallest apartment building in WA. Now that has happened, it would be an honour to build the tallest building in WA in the future. So new doors are opening and we are excited to see what the future holds.” DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on Hanssen, their story, their unique approach and capabilities, their past projects, their award recognition, and a lot more – including how to get in touch with Darren and his team – visit https://www.hanssen.com.au/
Always looking ahead
CA Architects is an accomplished, award-winning architectural practice always looking ahead, they create what they believe will shape tomorrow with their offices in Cairns, Brisbane, and Townsville. Their experience in building projects, which includes several unique projects, is extensive, and they provide a full range of architectural services from project inception to completion.
DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
DECEMBER 2023
Carlo Amerio, CA Architects founder and director, states “Our reputation rests on a continued commitment to quality and pursuing excellence. Through innovation and a proactive approach to the design process, we constantly strive to improve our performance and that of our clients. Our experience, resources, and local knowledge ensure that we are prepared to handle a diverse range of projects and provide innovative, practical solutions of the highest calibre.” Carlo has been practising as an architect since 1984. He developed extensive knowledge in numerous building types, including residential, commercial mixed-use, and master planning, throughout the years. He initially established CA Architects in Cairns in 1993. The practice has grown over the years and now employs 20 staff. From the start, the mission of CA Architects has been to design buildings and urban environments that bring value to their communities. Their goal was never to focus on just one sector or typology – Carlo always wanted the practice to be diverse and apply the same holistic approach to problemsolving to all areas to enhance the environment. CA Architects work on an extensive variety of projects ranging in size and value. Their specialties include master planning and urban design; workplace and education; cultural and community; mixeduse and commercial; private and multi-residential; and hospitality and leisure. On the higher-end jobs, they regularly joint venture with other national and international firms, which allows them to take on projects of virtually unlimited value. Carlo feels that clients choose CA Architects because of their commitment to outstanding design. “We’re known for delivering high-quality projects,” he reiterates. “We’re one of the few practices in the region that is third-party quality accredited THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
and has a strict QA protocol to follow. We ensure that we have the most up-to-date technologies and continue training.” “We’re also known for our quality service,” Carlo adds. “We’re approachable and easy to work with. We work with clients as part of a team, listen to their needs and deliver to their expectations.” “At CA Architects, we understand projects do not always run perfectly, but what’s important is that when issues arise, you resolve them quickly and move on. That is exactly what we do and how we’ve developed solid relationships with our clientele.” Over the years, CA Architects have also built great relationships with industry partners, builders, and suppliers they source from. ForestOne, Australia’s biggest independent timber and ornamental surface products distributor, is a frequent supply partner. They are a sales and distribution for timber and decorative surface materials. They are a company with sales and distribution teams in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Cairns, and Townsville. Through their extensive distribution network, they provide responsive customer service and timely product delivery. They focus on offering natural, beautiful products in all markets and are committed to responsibly sourcing, promoting, and supplying certified forest products. ForestOne’s environmental commitment makes them a good fit for CA Architects, who always take an environmentally sustainable design approach and strive to source renewable or recyclable resources whenever possible. DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
CA Architects strives to create positive impacts on the environment and local community, as seen in two recent interconnected and multi-award-winning projects: the Cairns Performing Arts Centre and the Munro Martin Parklands. The Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) is Queensland’s largest regional performing arts centre, located on a site with a lengthy history connected to the community and the arts. CA Architects, in collaboration with Cox Architecture, designed a completely new facility to meet the needs of local arts organisations and big touring organisations such as the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Oz Opera, among others. Meanwhile, the Munro Martin Parklands served as a cultural hub in Cairns. The park has seen several name changes, served as a command centre, and hosted several sporting and social events. CA Architects were involved in Making an impact DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
redevelopment to transform the space into a vibrant public amenity and unique open-air performing arts venue. The design, created in collaboration with Prowse Landscape Architects and supported by Cox Architecture, comprises an outdoor amphitheatre and stage connected by multiple arbours to give the community a continuous experience of the new flora and fauna. The outdoor stage, which accommodated an entire Symphony Orchestra with the flexibility to host a variety of professional, amateur, and community events, is additionally furnished by “botanical actors,” with a 10-metre high trellis proscenium “flourishing with the radiant colours of the Mandeville vine.” A six-metretall curving gabion wall made of local rock acts as a backdrop. The Munro Martin Parklands has been repeatedly recognised by industry organisations, including the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA), in recent years. At the 2017 Far North Queensland Architecture Awards, hosted by the AIA’s Queensland Chapter, the project received the title ‘Regional Project of the Year.’ The parklands received praise from the jury for their “clever use of landscaping,” which “minimises traffic noise while subtly encouraging people to explore the park and celebrate the heritage aspects of the site.” The jury also praised the design team for delivering a “vibrant tropical design incorporating an outdoor theatre setting with DECEMBER 2023
a dramatic, green proscenium in the heart of Cairns.” In 2017, at the AIA Queensland State Architecture Awards, the Munro Martin Parklands also won an award in the ‘Urban Design’ category. In 2021, at the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects Awards, the parklands won the category for ‘Excellence in Parks and Open Spaces.’ The Cairns Performing Arts Centre has also received numerous awards. Most notably, CA Architects and Cox Architecture were awarded the FDG Stanley Award for Public Architecture and the Queensland Architecture Medallion, the AIA’s state architectural awards’ highest distinction, in 2021. AIA Jury Chair Eloise Atkinson applauded the building for its state-of-the-art technology and facilities, increased audience capacity, and compatibility with its tropical landscape: “CPAP is undeniably a building that responds to its site, its city, and its wet tropical environment, reflecting the colours, filtered light, lush vegetation, and lifestyle of the tropics,” Eloise remarked. “It is a complex building technically with extraordinary flexibility in terms of performance modes.” She also praised the building as “architecturally significant” and a “wonderful cultural asset” to the community. She described it as “a public building that enables more cultural experiences and is a catalyst for economic growth.” Carlo attributes their awardTHE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
winning achievements to the relationships built with clients and stakeholders. CA Architects’ goals are to continue achieving success through collaboration and by continuing to deliver high-profile and awardwinning projects such as CPAC and the Munro Martin Parklands. They aim to continue working on projects of this calibre. “There’s a succession plan in place for the young directors to take over,” Carlo explains. “They are eager to expand the business and develop it into other areas.” They plan to grow the practice to the next level.” “There’s definitely a big future for CA Architects,” Carlo concludes. DECEMBER 2023
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on CA Architects, what they do, their past projects, and their latest news and concepts – and to get in touch with Carlo and his growing team – visit https://www.caarchitects.com.au/
Leading the Way in Western Australia Passive Home Construction
DECEMBER 2023
ISMART Building Group, based in Perth, Western Australia, is a leader and an innovator in the passive home building market. By pairing careful, conscious design with intelligent building practices, ISMART produces some of the most sustainable homes available. Their homes are high quality, energy efficient, and affordable. “We strive to achieve the highest performance that we can get. We strive to deliver the most energy efficient and healthy homes that are possible to build in the world at the moment,” states Brian Guinan, owner/ director of ISMART. He says this is what sets them apart from other builders. “For me, that’s the difference. We’re not just going to settle for the normal, run of the mill built to code kind of stuff.” Brian brings a background as a carpenter in his native Ireland and a project manager in New York to his current work with ISMART. He says he came to Perth 13 years ago due to the availability of work there. “In 2013 I went to college and got my builders tickets and decided I was going to be a builder.” He took over ISMART in 2017. ISMART is a registered builder of high-end residential homes specializing in passive homes that offer low energy use, high energy efficiency, and high sustainability. The company also provides consultation to external builders including heat recovery ventilation installation, air tightness installation, and inspections and testing. Another section of the company serves as an industry partner and distributor for pro clima Australia’s airtight membranes, weather resistant barriers, and adhesives and tapes. Brian says those are the “three main arms of the company under one banner.” ISMART builds across the Perth metro area and also offers build assist or sub-contractor assist in regional areas. “We tend to use our local partner builder in that situation. We would provide the specialties of the passive house and the local THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTYzNTg=