THE PROBLEM
Clinton Apartments is located on the busy stretch of Old South Head road as it approaches Bondi Junction. The upper levels of the building offer panoramic views of the surrounding district including views of Bondi Beach and the heads of Sydney Harbour. This exposure comes at a cost, however, as the exposed and elevated location of the block provides an aggressive marine environment which over time takes a toll on external building components. In particular, the originally installed windows and balustrades have suffered gradual deterioration and their performance had diminished to a point where replacement was the only viable option. The owners saw the need to upgrade as a chance to not only comply with new legislative requirements but, also, to take advantage of advancements in available materials to improve the acoustic performance of the windows and to boost property values by improving the amenity of the apartments. In addition, to complete the package of improvement works, the owners took the opportunity, whilst access equipment was in place, to renew the waterproofing membranes on all balconies and to upgrade their appearance with a new tiled finish.
THE PROCESS
An access system was designed that consisted of scaffolding and swing stage platforms to facilitate personnel and materials access to the work areas. The works and access plan was designed so that work inside individual units was completed in a single period of 3-5 days in order to minimise the disturbance that occupiers experienced. An overhead protective hoarding was erected over the building front entrance to ensure safe access for residents. Regular site meetings were held with the Superintendent to provide updates & feedback on the works and to address any potential upcoming issues.
THE SOLUTION
The Owners Corporation engaged a local project manager to provide a detailed specification and tender document detailing the acoustic, structural and weatherproofing performance of the new windows and doors. The specification called for a high level of acoustic performance to reduce the traffic noise from the nearby road. We worked closely with G James Glass & Aluminium to arrive at a glazing solution that met all requirements.
