James Hardie Innovation Centre

The refurbishment of James Hardie’s premises at 10 Colquhoun Street, Rosehill, stands as a testament to collaborative problem-solving and thoughtful design in the industrial sector.

Breathing new life (and sunlight) into an existing building

The project delivered a comprehensive commercial fitout upgrade, transforming the main entry and office areas and introducing a new passenger lift and revitalised external façade. Guided by a client-provided design from Liquid Design, the team focused on enhancing the arrival experience and ensuring the new works integrated seamlessly with the existing office environment. The result is a cohesive, modernised workplace that supports daily operations and improves the overall user experience.

Delivery and challenges

The delivery phase overcame timing constraints related to lift installation, and design clarifications required during construction. Groundworks required elevated planning and safety considerations, supported by a coordinated site approach.

One of the project’s notable innovations was the decision to use screw piles for the external ramp and entry slab, which provided a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional subgrade works. Sustainability was addressed through diligent waste management and tracking, reflecting a commitment to responsible construction practices from all parties. The engineering process also featured unique moments, such as the underpropping of the slab above while new columns and footings were installed below, which required precise coordination and technical expertise.

Outcome

Delivered within a live, secure industrial site, the project benefitted from strong stakeholder engagement, value engineering and a collaborative approach. The completed refurbishment provides James Hardie with a revitalised entry and upgraded workplace aligned with the client’s design intent, improving functionality, visual appeal and long-term performance across the Rosehill site.