31/07/2020
After almost two years, June 2020 has marked the practical completion of our Collingwood Yards project (formerly Collingwood Arts Precinct), one of the largest heritage restoration projects that McCorkell has ever undertaken. The project involved converting the heritage-listed tech school into a hub that provides spaces and support for small-to-medium creative organisations.
The works were secured through an ECI process, acknowledging McCorkell’s long history of completing projects on the same site. Our very own Howard McCorkell worked closely with the key stakeholders including the CAP Board of Directors, providing construction consulting services during the extensive design development phase, right through until planning submissions.
Our design contribution also led to a number of significant changes, savings and future growth opportunities.
“On behalf of the board, CAP is delighted to express our great appreciation and formally acknowledge the McCorkell Brown Group as a key partner for the incredible contribution that their stellar team have made to reinvigorate these abandoned halls into a place for artists and arts organisations to work, collaborate and build community.”
Daniel Besen, Chair in the Board of Directors
Collingwood Yards
The works began with demolition, structural rectifications, DDA works and installing new services throughout the three main buildings.
Once the early works package was completed, the rest of the scope was carried out which included; restoring shop fronts and glazing through the precinct, constructing three new external masonry lift shafts adjoining to steel stairways and platforms, creating a new linkway to Perry Street, and creating a new feature linkway to Johnston Street with perforated steel cladding and gold leaf brickwork pillars. Customisable LED feature lighting was also installed throughout the entire precinct including the Johnston Street facade and linkway, and at the top of the new lift shafts.
In addition to the original scope, we also completed external works to the public realm including a large central courtyard, amphitheatre and landscape escarpment.
As is the case with all of our projects, we placed a huge amount of energy in fostering a great relationship with the client and key stakeholders. As a result of our team’s approach and quality of work, we were also engaged to deliver three tenancy fitouts within the precinct – BUS Projects, West Space and Music Market Building C. We also completed integrated fitout works for CAP Studios, PBS Radio and Music Market that were formed under the existing contract.
This great outcome reinforces our mantra of working collaboratively with our clients. Great work generates great opportunities.
Image Credits: Chalk Studio
