Duratec revitalised the City of Perth Library with a facade upgrade, maintaining iconic charm while introducing cutting edge engineering and design.
In the heart of Perth’s CBD, the City of Perth Library is a recognisable and striking architectural feature. Recently, it underwent a major facade remediation led by Duratec, aimed at resolving structural issues and refreshing its appearance. What resulted was a safer, sleeker building that blended modern engineering with heritage charm.
The problem beneath the surface
The library’s original facade featured around 180 aluminium mullions, vertical supports that held decorative stone panels known as ‘cassettes.’ While visually impressive, these panels were vulnerable to thermal expansion and contraction. Over time, this caused cracking and, in some cases, falling debris that could pose a serious risk to pedestrians.
To prevent accidents, scaffolding was installed for over a year prior to Duratec’s long-term solution.
Innovative solutions and smart design
Duratec replaced over 3,000 stone cassettes with approximately 10,000 durable Cement Fibre Composite (CFC) panels from EQUITONE. These new panels, installed to a hidden ‘envelope’ system, were designed to handle wind loads and thermal movement while maintaining the building’s curved, or ‘saw-tooth’ aesthetic.
Precision was key. With 75 columns under construction at once, traditional tools like string lines and laser levels weren’t practical. “We’d have had to cover the library in a web of lines or spend a fortune on lasers,” said Senior Project Manager, Corey Parker.
The team adapted the Nvelope NV3 system, typically used for flat facades, to fit three intricate panels into tight spaces, repeated across 180 vertical mullions, spanning the height of the seven-storey-building. This unique application drew attention from the system’s supplier, who flew in from Sydney to witness the installation.
Engineering meets ingenuity
To prepare the team for the Nvelope NV3 system’s installation, Duratec ditched traditional manuals and created custom jigs and a step-by-step installation guide, likened to a Lego Technics manual. Once the initial setup was complete, tape measures were no longer needed; the jigs ensured millimetre perfect accuracy and consistency across the facade.
Project Coordinator Michael Voynovsky, whose background in ceramic tiling and an eye for detail, explained: “Even half a millimetre out could ripple through the entire design.” The colour-coded jigs streamlined the process, with more than 15 different jigs developed to ensure alignment across all teams.
Preserving heritage, enhancing safety
Duratec also innovated in access and safety. Instead of drilling into the structure, mast climbers were fixed to exposed mullions, reducing noise, vibration, and installation time. Extendable platforms with rubber flanges where also added to the climbers with the purpose of catching falling debris, protecting pedestrians below.
These mast climbers allowed access to multiple elevations simultaneously, without obstructing the library’s natural presence in the precinct.
Teamwork and growth
Corey and Michael both praised Duratec’s support throughout the project. Michael, who transitioned from residential renovations to site supervision, credited the company’s investment in training and mentorship. Corey, a civil engineer and long-time Duratec team member, highlighted the satisfaction of hands-on problem solving and collaboration.
He also acknowledged the broader team: “From tendering to execution, everyone showed foresight, commitment, and ingenuity. The crew maintained a great culture and work ethic throughout the project.”
A win for the community
Beyond technical achievements, the project delivered real benefits. Safety was significantly improved, and the building received what many described as a “100-year clean.” The new cladding provided a refreshed heritage look that aligns with modern design standards.
The project also finished ahead of schedule, eleven months instead of twelve, and stayed close to budget with minimal variations. Corey praised the City of Perth and Griffith Architects for their collaborative approach, which was vital to the project’s success.
Setting a new standard
The City of Perth Library facade remediation is more than a construction success. It’s a model for future projects. Through innovation, precision, and teamwork, Duratec has shown how modern engineering can preserve an iconic facade while enhancing safety and aesthetics.
Thanks to the dedication of all involved, the library has a look to last and will continue to serve the community.
The numbers:
- By the end of the project, Duratec had recycled 160 m³ (128 tonnes) of stone and 38,661 kg of aluminium
- 3,377 stone cassettes removed, with an average weight of 55kg
- 10,695 individual EQUITONE panels installed
- Over 71km of aluminium extrusion installed for the makeup of the sub framing
- 358,410 screws used to secure the new subframe to the mullions and to secure the panels to the subframe
- Total time: 11 months and 4 days – from 13 July 2024 to 17 June 2025
- Total man-hours: 27,325 hours
- Lots of coffee consumed!
