Sydney Water Administration

Situated at 240 Quakers Hill Road, Quakers Hill, an unused building on Sydney Water’s water sanitation plant site required a significant transformation. Rather than opting for a costly rebuild, Sydney Water engaged Intermain to refurbish the building to create a new site administration building. The project navigated both structural and environmental challenges, and successfully delivered a modern, efficient, and functional administration office that met Sydney Water’s operational needs.

This project presented a unique opportunity to set a benchmark for future refurbishments of similar buildings across several other sites.

Creating a Purpose-Build Office Through Thoughtful Design

The Sydney Water refurbishment project covered a comprehensive scope, turning the once-dormant, two level building into a fully functional workspace. The office refurbishment included modifications for an open plan working environment, the upgrade of key facilities such as staff kitchens, office areas, meeting rooms, a laboratory and site surveillance room. Accessibility was improved with a new bathroom, end-of-trip facilities, and installation of an internal passenger lift.

The building’s structure saw substantial improvements, including a new roof, new glazing, balcony upgrade, upgraded electrical and fire services, and enhanced security solutions. Externally, the building was transformed with external cladding and a 600sqm car park with EV station and landscaping improvements.

Electrical safety and innovative solutions

A major complexity involved managing high-voltage electrical cabling within an overhead gantry, adjacent to the building. Intermain’s approach, proposed during the tender process, provided a safe solution to carry out works adjacent to these cables.

Additionally, the site’s poor soil conditions required strategic planning for car park construction, while a revised stormwater system and retaining wall design addressed long-standing flood issues. Through these solutions, the project not only overcame significant obstacles but also ensures the site’s resilience in future.

Refurbishment with Sustainability and Environmental Care

Sustainability played a crucial role in the refurbishment, with waste management strategies ensuring responsible disposal of asbestos and recycling of materials. The integration of efficient water and energy systems enhanced overall sustainability, contributing to long-term operational benefits.

Among surprises, were the sites’ feathered inhabitants. Intermain’s team identified a nest in a nearby tree that was home to Lorikeet chicks. The team quickly consulted with ecological experts, and safely relocated the tree and nest.

The Result

The Sydney Water refurbishment project stands as a testament to Intermain’s expertise in delivering a cost-effective and sustainable solution and a complex commercial upgrade while maintaining operational continuity. Intermain’s expertise ensured that the project met high safety and quality standards, and achieved a successful thorough Federal Safety Audit. By aligning with Sydney Water’s vision, this project demonstrated how existing assets could be revitalised to meet contemporary workplace requirements while minimising environmental impact.

For more details on our office refurbishment and fitout services, contact us today.