Adelaide Festival Theatre Shell Rehabilitation and Protective Coating

South Australia

Value: $1.5mil

Completion date: November 2021

 

The upgrade of Adelaide Festival Plaza is key to delivering an Adelaide Riverbank that not only generates economic growth but becomes a compelling destination of choice for local, interstate, and overseas visitors by enhancing the public experience. It also improves how the area is used and perceived. This ambitious project aims to rejuvenate the heart of Adelaide, blending modern infrastructure with the city's rich cultural heritage to create a vibrant, accessible space for everyone to enjoy (https://renewalsa.sa.gov.au/projects/festival-plaza).

The Adelaide Festival Theatre is undoubtedly one of the most iconic buildings in Adelaide, recognised internationally for its architectural significance. This structure, now 50 years old and in need of urgent rehabilitation, forms part of the Festival Plaza Redevelopment worth over $600 million. The redevelopment not only aims to preserve the historical and cultural essence of the theatre, but also to enhance its functionality and appeal to a broader audience.

Portolesi Structural were chosen by the multinational construction firm Built as the preferred contractor at the start of 2021. The contract consisted of a visual and documented assessment of the existing waterproofing membrane performed through a series of tests. Repairs were carried out to the existing membrane at the various structural and non-structural components, and the application of a new waterproof membrane system as specified by engineers Aurecon. Much reliance was placed on Portolesi Structural to direct and advise the various stakeholders throughout the process due to the extraordinary level of complexities.

The civil contracting aspects of this project were particularly challenging. The team had to navigate the intricacies of working on a heritage site, ensuring that modern construction techniques did not compromise the historical integrity of the theatre. This required meticulous planning and coordination with heritage conservation experts, structural engineers, and local authorities. The goal was to seamlessly integrate new materials and technologies while maintaining the theatre's iconic appearance.

The first phase of the works was completed in an accelerated process from March to June 2021 with outstanding results, not just from an aesthetic perspective but also due to the performance of the Portolesi Structural Team. The success of this phase can be attributed to the team's expertise in civil contracting, which allowed them to efficiently manage the project timeline, budget, and quality control measures. Their ability to quickly adapt to unforeseen challenges and implement effective solutions was crucial in meeting the tight deadlines.

One of the significant challenges faced during this phase was the waterproofing of the theatre's roof. The existing membrane had deteriorated over the years, leading to leaks and water damage. Portolesi's team conducted thorough assessments to identify the areas most in need of repair. Utilising advanced waterproofing technologies, they applied a new membrane system that not only restored the roof's integrity but also enhanced its durability and lifespan.

In addition to the technical aspects, the project also emphasised the importance of safety and environmental sustainability. Portolesi Structural implemented rigorous safety protocols to protect workers and the public, ensuring that the construction site was secure and compliant with all regulations. The team also adopted eco-friendly practices, such as using low-impact materials and minimising waste, to reduce the environmental footprint of the project.

Overall, the upgrade of Adelaide Festival Plaza, with the rehabilitation of the Adelaide Festival Theatre at its core, exemplifies a successful integration of civil contracting expertise and cultural preservation. The collaboration between Portolesi Structural, Built, and Aurecon highlights the importance of combining technical proficiency with a deep respect for heritage, ultimately creating a revitalised space that will serve the community for generations to come.