Durability Consulting for $18.5 Million Warehouse Conversion

A stunning transformation is underway as billionaire philanthropist and renowned art collector Judith Neilson prepares for her latest design statement with an $18.5-million warehouse conversion. Colliers Project Leaders was engaged to upgrade the building at 66 Bay Street, Ultimo, from an existing commercial building to a single 5-storey bespoke luxury residence. BCRC is proud to play a crucial role in this high-profile development, providing expertise and durability consulting for the project.

Set in the heart of Ultimo at 66 Bay Street and designed by Atelier Andy Carson, this adaptive reuse project will transform an early 20th-century warehouse into a luxurious contemporary residence.

With extensive experience ensuring the long-term integrity of heritage buildings, BCRC’s involvement highlights the importance of durability assessment when planning substantial upgrades.

A Vision of Adaptive Reuse

The project aspires to be a prime example of world-class adaptive reuse. Originally constructed in 1911, the warehouse has seen significant changes over the years, including a 1980s renovation that added a fourth floor. The current design is ambitious, calling for the complete removal of internal walls and ceilings, as well as excavation to add a basement level. Inside, the residence will feature a new spiral staircase, lift, fire stairs, and bespoke finishes, while the exterior will receive a modern facelift to blend historic charm with contemporary elegance.

Why Durability Consulting Matters

Given the building’s age and the scale of the renovation, the project called for expert durability consulting to assess the condition of the concrete and avoid costly repairs in the future. BCRC’s role in this project underscores the importance of understanding the structural health of existing materials, especially when repurposing older buildings.

BCRC’s Durability Consulting

BCRC is providing comprehensive consulting services throughout the project, including:

• Concrete Mix Design Review and Assessment: Ensuring that the new concrete used in the project meets the highest standards for strength, longevity, and compatibility with the architectural requirements.

• Advice on Construction Processes and Material Selection: Guiding the selection of materials and construction methods to achieve optimal performance, sustainability, and durability of the concrete elements.

• Top-Class Architectural Finishing of Concrete Elements: Providing expertise to ensure the concrete finishes not only meet structural requirements but also achieve top-quality aesthetic standards that enhance the overall design.

• Construction/Engineering Detail Review: Assessing construction drawings and reviewing subcontractor tenders to ensure the project is executed efficiently and according to specification.

• Thermal Modelling and Crack Control Measures: Addressing potential issues like crack development and temperature control in the concrete to prevent long-term damage and ensure structural integrity.

• Quality Inspection and Supervision: Overseeing the on-site work to ensure all aspects of the renovation comply with durability and quality specifications.

Maximising the Life of Your Asset with BCRC Durability Consulting

The warehouse conversion is on track to be completed later this year. Once finished, it will stand as an exemplar of adaptive reuse, blending historical integrity with cutting-edge design. BCRC’s durability consulting will ensure that this luxury residence will not only be visually stunning but structurally sound for generations to come.

BCRC is a trusted leader in construction materials and durability consulting. We provide expert planning-stage durability consulting, asset service life predictions, and repair/remediation solutions for existing structures. Our unmatched expertise ensures long-lasting, resilient buildings.

This project highlights BCRC’s expertise with heritage structures, and we’re proud to be part of a team that’s creating a unique piece of Sydney’s architecture.