Complex Structural Works in the Heart of Rundle Mall
Sarah Constructions was engaged to deliver extensive internal and external alterations to 27 Rundle Mall — a commercial refurbishment project in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, designed to revitalise the premises for retail and office use.
The project scope included structural alterations to integrate three buildings internally, creating a larger open-plan retail tenancy on the ground floor, with a new void entry and basement storage. The upper levels included a tenant office, separate open-plan workspace, toilets, and a plant room. Externally, the existing façade was replaced on the ground floor, with a contemporary tiled frontage and aluminium cladding, while a new glazed canopy with perforated aluminium and integrated LED lighting was installed to modernise the building’s street presence.
With restricted access in a high-traffic pedestrian zone, works were staged to minimise disruption. Demolition and noisy operations were undertaken outside retail hours, while all materials and waste were moved discreetly via laneway logistics.
Structural Strategy Solutions
Operating within the limits of an existing structure, we coordinated the complex cranage and installation of large structural steel beams—part of the 60 tonnes of new steel incorporated into the build. As the roof and its supporting structure remained in place, conventional installation methods were not possible.
Instead, new welded beams were craned in through upper-level windows, then transported internally via dollies before being lifted into place using chain blocks and lifters. This method required extensive temporary engineering solutions, including additional back propping and custom-designed supports to accommodate the cranage process.
The structural steel design was revised around this installation sequence, with beams spliced and sized according to access restrictions. This strategic approach enabled us to safely and efficiently strengthen the building while working within the constraints of a high-traffic, occupied site.
Adaptable Project Delivery
Although engaged under a Managing Contractor model, we provided added value by stepping into a Design and Construct role due to a lack of design documentation. We engaged a structural engineer to review the existing structure and proposed design, then engaging them to design the permanent works and ensure safety and compliance.
Live CBD Environment
Operating in Adelaide’s busiest pedestrian mall, the site faced no laydown area, noise curfews, and limited access for deliveries. We mitigated this through strategic night works, early-morning deliveries, and lean material handling.
