Habitat House

We were engaged to deliver the pre-construction and construction phases of the refurbishment project of Habitat House on Kippax Street in Surry Hills.

The project was undertaken across eight commercial levels, two basements including end of trip facility, as well a conversion of the vacant roof into a vibrant rooftop garden. The external works included installing a timber deck, honed concrete pavers, artificial grass, seating areas and a pergola. Large mature trees such as olive trees and a dracaena draco tree were craned onto the roof from the street below.

The overall project consists of a base build refurbishment and fitout, including façade glazing replacement, structural steel installation and basement excavation works. The structural works consist of new service rises and infill stair penetrations. Additionally, the team constructed new lifts, lobby area, windows, amenities, end of trip facilities, rooftop garden and extension of the fire stairs.

In preparation for the refurbishment, all fitouts and infrastructure were completely stripped. Heavy remediation to façade glazing and spandrels were undertaken across the eleven levels, with class B hoarding erected. A new high-performance window system has been installed on both facades allowing an abundance of fresh air to mix with the new gas-driven mechanical system.

The lobby area features a curved wall made from glass bricks, austratus hemlock dowel profile ceilings, crescent border tiled wall and surface charred timber panelling.

The repositioned building seamlessly combines collaboration, wellness and healthy living, all with an edginess which feels right at home in the chic city fringe suburb.