As projects go, TL Robertson Library at Curtin University was a marathon rather than a sprint. Three and half years from concept to completion with multiple members of the Castledex team involved. Working directly with the client Curtin University, the architect Hames Sharley and builder Lendlease Castledex were able to offer a single source solution to all aspects of FF&E. Lendlease engaged Castledex to work as the FF&E Head Contractor with responsibility for managing multiple other companies and subcontractors to ensure reliable and sustainable operations of the library in modernised facilities.
Work commenced on a state-of-the-art compactus on Level 2 in mid-2021. Installation works included laying tracks, building moveable units and shelving, which took approximately three months to complete. These works allowed the client to move the recallable book collection for ease of access during the renovation of the rest of the library. The compactus is home to over 300,000 books and has freed up significant space on Level 3.
In parallel with works on Level 2, the Castledex Sales and Projects Team worked behind the scenes with the key stakeholders to finalise selections for furniture, present our single source option and mobilise to the site to complete work. With a value-engineered solution agreed upon, Castledex set to work managing seven other furniture companies ensuring a seamless fit-out across six floors and 17,000m2 of floor space.
Over five months, a dedicated install team completed the works achieving programme. The team liaised closely with the Lendlease site team to mitigate issues and coordinate work with other trades. Challenges included working on an active university campus, with ever-changing access routes to the site. Working closely with the Lendlease team to ensure the FF&E fit-out did not cause delays to other trades.
Castledex is proud to be part of the team that successfully renovated TL Robertson. The refurbishment transforms the facility into a learning and research hub at the heart of the university campus. The final furniture selections complement the building's iconic brutalist architecture while helping to revitalise and expand the internal space to facilitate an experience of informal learning, knowledge sharing and collaboration.
2023 Master Builders Association of Western Australia Excellence in Construction Awards
- Best Education Building $50m - $100m
- Construction on a Challenging Site
- Excellence in Waste Management
- Best Refurbishment or Renovation $50m - $100m
