The building’s large footprint and intricate curved facade, combined with its prototype development and cultural influences, create a distinctive and impactful endeavor in the built environment. Its hybrid structure cleverly integrates structural concrete for the carpark, lift, and stair cores, ensuring vital stability for the Glue Laminated Timber (GLT) columns and beams. Meanwhile, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is employed for the floor plates, showcasing an innovative use of materials locally procured within Victoria.

The project’s unique custom mass timber design pushed construction boundaries, extending fire testing procedure to meet strict permit requirements, showcasing its commitment to safety, innovation, and compliance.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including lockdowns, site restrictions, and adverse weather in 2022, our project team persevered during timber structure installation and kept to the construction schedule. In 2022, material and labor shortages further pressured our timeline, but our adaptable team consistently found creative solutions to push the project forward.

Adding to the complexity, the project was awarded with a partially developed design, necessitating close collaboration between design and construction teams for a seamless, timely execution.

The project’s success in overcoming pandemic restrictions, weather challenges, shortages, complex fire testing, and design changes showcases the team’s dedication and expertise. Galkangu is noteworthy for its innovative use of sustainable materials like CLT and GLT, offering structural strength, fire resistance, and environmental benefits. The facility has achieved a remarkable 6 Star Green Star rating and a 6 Star NABERS rating, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and environmental efficiency.