The Magazine | Australian National Construction Review | University of Tasmania – The Forest
Adaptive Reuse and Sustainable Design
The Forest redevelopment at the University of Tasmania demonstrates how adaptive reuse can balance heritage, sustainability, and operational complexity. Hansen Yuncken’s continuity from early contractor involvement to GMP delivery enabled efficient structural adaptation, restoration, and fitout across complex, heritage-listed buildings.
The University of Tasmania’s The Forest redevelopment is one of the most ambitious adaptive-reuse projects ever undertaken in Tasmania. A fusion of heritage preservation, sustainable innovation and contemporary learning design.
“Hansen Yuncken initially engaged in an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase, collaborating closely with the University of Tasmania and the design team to refine construction methodologies, material strategies and project staging for this highly complex adaptive reuse,” said Hansen Yuncken Project Manager, Alex Gorton.
“Following ECI, we transitioned into the delivery phase under a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) contract, taking responsibility for the full redevelopment, including structural adaptation, restoration and the complete internal fitout.”
This continuity from design refinement to construction, gave the University confidence that the team could manage the complexity of such a significant transformation. “It ensured certainty across budget, programme and buildability for one of the University’s most ambitious transformation projects,” Alex explained.
Adaptive reuse sits at the intersection of engineering difficulty and architectural aspiration, and The Forest exemplified this. Multiple interconnected buildings, diverse structural eras and heritage-listed components created a web of technical challenges. “The Senior Structural Engineer described it as the most complex temporary works design of his career,” said Alex.
Tight internal spaces, limited access, heritage fabric to retain, and structural systems that needed to be partially stabilised, partially rebuilt and entirely reimagined to support the new design provided an array of unique challenges of the project team. However, the benefits of working within an adaptive reuse environment is increasingly becoming a preferred, cost-effective and sustainable alternative to demolition and rebuild.
Environmental responsibility shaped every material and construction decision. Hansen Yuncken worked with the design team to retain as much of the existing building fabric as possible, preserving embodied carbon and minimising demolition waste. Life-cycle assessments guided every finish and furniture selection, ensuring sustainable certification and end-of-life recycle-ability.
The materials strategy became one of the project’s most extraordinary achievements. Mass timber was selected for its low embodied carbon and minimal waste. Locally produced Hempcrete was installed at a scale that makes The Forest home to the largest hempcrete installation in the Southern Hemisphere. Natural, recycled and regionally sourced materials rounded out the circular economy approach.
Delivering mass timber structures, hempcrete wall systems and the breathtaking ‘forest beneath the dome’ required years of planning. The long ECI period allowed Hansen Yuncken to secure Australian-grown timber feedstock, plant and cultivate Tasmanian hemp crops, and identify and rehome Tasmanian native trees in nurseries until installation.
From the outset, the project team—including HY, Woods Bagot, the University and key consultants—established a shared project charter emphasising communication, respect and patience. “The team embraced this approach, taking pride in meeting the programme and achieving the exceptional quality evident in the final built form,” Alex explained.
Digital coordination tools such as Autodesk Construction Cloud kept programme and quality tightly managed, contributing to a delivery that achieved handover on the exact day promised.
The outcome is not only a striking educational facility but a sustainable precinct that enriches student life and the broader community.
“Every contributor operated with transparency, collaboration and a shared commitment to excellence. No individual sought to be the hero,” said Alex. “We are proud to have delivered a transformative environment that will profoundly enhance teaching, learning and research opportunities at the University of Tasmania.”
For more information contact Hansen Yuncken, 39 Patrick Street, Hobart TAS 7000, phone 03 6215 4600, email hobart@hansenyuncken.com.au, website www.hansenyuncken.com.au
Factbox
Developer: University of Tasmania
Main Construction Company: Hansen Yuncken
Architect: Woods Bagot
Structural Engineers: JMG Engineers & Planners
Architectural Precision Meets Prefabrication
Case StudiesCandour delivered precision timber façades for The Forest, combining CNC fabrication, modular assembly, and durable finishes.
Australian architecture continues to embrace the possibilities of intricate timber façades and precision prefabrication.
On the University of Tasmania’s The Forest redevelopment, Candour translated complex designs into high-performance, buildable outcomes, leveraging CNC fabrication, modular assembly, and advanced timber treatments to realise one of Tasmania’s most technically ambitious adaptive reuse projects.
For The Forest, Candour’s contribution was key to achieving the project’s signature organic aesthetic. Candour’s scope ranged from mass timber façades to external fins with finishes that ensured both visual performance and long-term durability in the Tasmanian climate.
“We focus on complex timber design and fabrication, using our architectural prefabrication platform to efficiently deliver high-end outcomes,” explained Founder and CEO, Jas Johnston. “We CNC machined the Masslam façade and exterior fins, factory-applied a premium timber finish, and provided H3 treatment for all external fins.”
“The scale of this project pushed us to develop new quality control and part management processes to ensure an accurate and high-quality outcome,” Jas said. These improvements have now become part of Candour’s operational backbone, strengthening their capacity for future large-scale work.
Currently, Candour is applying the same innovative thinking to major projects across sectors, including the North East Link Motorway Control Centre and a range of architectural prefabricated homes, further showcasing the versatility of their advanced timber fabrication capabilities.
With a combination of digital precision, material knowledge, and a commitment to architectural excellence, Candour continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in timber fabrication—one meticulously crafted project at a time.
For more information contact Candour, 9 Sara Grove, Tottenham VIC 3012, phone 0402 823 549, email hello@candour.cc, website www.candour.cc
Flowing with Excellence: Precision Plumbing in Action
Case StudiesCooke & Dowsett Plumbing Tasmania delivers innovative, sustainable hydraulic solutions at The Forest, combining technical precision and workforce development.
Tasmania’s commercial construction sector is evolving rapidly, with projects demanding not only technical precision but also innovative, future-ready solutions. In this environment, reliable and forward-thinking hydraulic services are critical to delivering buildings that are efficient, sustainable, and resilient.
Since its establishment in Tasmania in 2018, Cooke & Dowsett Plumbing Tasmania (CDT) has positioned itself as a trusted partner in meeting these challenges, combining technical expertise with collaborative project delivery to ensure complex developments are completed safely, on time, and to the highest standard.
Tasked with delivering advanced hydraulic systems, including syphonic drainage, suspended drainage under a raised access floor, rainwater reuse systems, and seismic design and installation, the CDT’s involvement demanded meticulous co-ordination across multiple disciplines.
“At CDT, we don’t just build systems — we build relationships,” said State Manager Alex Swift. “From early contract engagement and design development to cost planning and final delivery, our goal is to ensure every stakeholder is informed, involved and satisfied.”
With AS/NZS ISO accredited Quality and Safety Systems, the company’s WHSEQ team drives a collaborative and compliant culture across every job. “Safety, sustainability and smart technology are not optional — they’re built into our DNA,” the CDT team emphasises.
The Forest project also reflects CDT’s commitment to developing talent and nurturing the next generation of industry professionals. Apprentice plumber Sam McLagan completed his apprenticeship on this development, contributing across every stage of the project. His journey underscores CDT’s focus on mentorship and skills development, and is a point of pride for the team.
Looking forward, Cooke & Dowsett Plumbing Tasmania continues to support Tasmania’s evolving infrastructure with innovative hydraulic solutions that push industry standards and deliver future-ready performance.
For more information contact Cooke & Dowsett Plumbing Tasmania, Unit 2, 481 Main Road, Montrose TAS 7010, phone 03 6144 5504, email info@cdpg.net.au, website www.cdpg.net.au
High-Precision Plastering for Acoustic and Curved Interiors
Case StudiesPlastering Solutions Tasmania applied advanced plastering systems to achieve acoustic compliance and seamless curved ceilings.
Achieving precise acoustic performance and seamless curved ceilings in high-use learning spaces requires more than standard plastering techniques.
For the University of Tasmania’s The Forest development, Plastering Solutions Tasmania carried out the Level 1 ceiling and partition works, shaping the spaces that support teaching, collaboration and movement throughout the building.
The project is defined by its curved forms, learning landscapes and quiet, nature-inspired interior palette. “The project incorporated a specialty acoustic system in key teaching and communal areas, which required a high level of care to install correctly,” said Plastering Solutions Tasmania Director, Mitch Turner.
One of the central challenges was the use of the FADE acoustic product, a semi-rigid fibreglass insulation panel finished with a spray-applied compound designed to create high acoustic absorption.
“It required precise handling, from the initial tape and setting of joints right through to the finished spray coats. Each stage had to be inspected, patched, and signed off before we could move to the next,” explained Mitch.
The project also featured extensive curved detailing throughout bulkheads, pelmets and ceiling forms in large teaching spaces. “The most complex FADE ceiling was a curved shell design integrated seamlessly into curved bulkheads and pelmets,” Mitch said. “These areas best showcase our craftsmanship. The precision needed to achieve those transitions was significant.”
To maintain a consistently high standard, Plastering Solutions Tasmania worked closely with Hansen Yuncken through on-site quality assurance. “Our main site manager, Andrew Hughes, oversaw the QA process and reviewed all framing and preparatory work to ensure the final finish met the project’s expectations,” Mitch explained.
Reflecting on the project, Mitch acknowledged the collective effort behind the work. “I’d like to extend a huge thanks to my team at Plastering Solutions Tasmania for their hard work and commitment, and to Hansen Yuncken for trusting us with such a great project.”
For more information contact Plastering Solutions Tasmania, 87-99 Talbot Road, South Launceston TAS 7249, phone 03 6128 3026, email mitch@pstas.com.au
Warmth, Function, and Precision: Glazing Solutions for Heritage-Inspired Design
Case StudiesVOS Constructions & Joinery delivered precision bespoke glazing, combining technical expertise with architectural excellence.
While VOS Constructions & Joinery is widely recognised as one of Tasmania’s largest and most established builders, VOS’ specialist Glass and Joinery division integrated complex glazing systems with extensive custom joinery throughout the learning and collaboration spaces.
The glazing scope integrated with timber interior finishes and included the supply and installation of 13.52mm Evantage clear heat-strengthened custom laminated glass to internal timber windows, along with Capral aluminium sliding windows, hinged doors and automatic sliding doors.
“We worked closely with the joinery teams from the beginning of the project to ensure the timber rebates and beads were produced accurately for the glass installation,” Glazing Manager Mitchell Free explains. “That early co-ordination meant the glazing integrated seamlessly with the timber architecture.”
The breadth of the package required careful sequencing and detailed co-ordination with the larger construction programme. “The volume of product required across the site was substantial, and ensuring everything arrived on time, was fabricated precisely, and integrated seamlessly was a major focus for our team,” said Glazing Manager Mitchell Free. “The internal glazing package demanded absolute precision. We worked closely with suppliers to meet the exacting requirements, and our installation teams delivered finishes that complement the mass-timber architecture beautifully.”
Across the Learning Landscapes, open collaboration areas, stair cores, and teaching spaces, VOS’ joinery and glazing elements elevate the warmth and sophistication of the timber-led design. Including circular modular work booths, curved banquette seating, terraced learning landscapes, timber wall linings, and acoustic panelling, many of the joinery elements featured curved or complex geometries, requiring detailed 3D modelling and modular fabrication to ensure accurate installation on site.
“The way the custom laminated glass complements the timber features and internal garden is inspiring,” Mitchell explained. “When you walk through the curved pod meeting rooms and look out across the timber stairs toward the garden, the finish really stands out.”
For more information contact VOS Constructions & Joinery, 70 Browns Road, Kingston TAS 7050, phone 03 6229 0300, email reception@vosgroup.com, website www.vosconstruction.com.au
Translating Architectural Ambition into Structural Reality
Case StudiesDanmor Engineering delivered precision steel fabrication, protective coatings, and innovative structural solutions for The Forest.
Precision, reliability, and innovation in structural steel are increasingly critical as architectural ambition and complex geometries push Tasmania’s commercial and infrastructure projects to new heights. Danmor Engineering Pty Ltd leverages more than four decades of expertise in steel fabrication, industrial painting, and protective coatings to deliver technically demanding projects with enduring quality.
On the University of Tasmania’s The Forest redevelopment, Danmor was entrusted with the main structural steel package, translating complex design intent into precise, build-able solutions that balance aesthetic excellence with structural integrity.
“The scale and delivery schedule for this project demanded careful co-ordination,” explains General Manager Danny Morris. “We had multiple detailers working simultaneously to ensure every area and contractor was aligned, especially given the complex geometry and integration of existing structures.”
Among the project’s standout engineering achievements was the curved dome truss, meticulously designed to support the glazed central atrium, a signature architectural feature of The Forest. “That dome truss was a real challenge,” Danny said. “It required precision fabrication and installation to achieve both the aesthetic and structural integrity the architects envisioned.”
At the height of construction, 14 of Danmor’s skilled team members were onsite, supported by the company’s advanced in-house fabrication capabilities, including a CNC fibre laser (processing up to 40mm plate) and a beamline system (max profile 1100 x 460mm).
As a Dulux Certified Coating Specialist, Danmor also ensured the steel components were treated to the highest protection standards.
With more than four decades of experience, Danmor Engineering Pty Ltd continues to set the standard in structural steel fabrication and installation, industrial painting, and protective coatings across Tasmania’s commercial, infrastructure, and private development sectors. Current projects include the refurbishment of Elizabeth Street Pier, the Royal Hobart Showground Development, and the Selfs Point Sewage Treatment Plant.
For more information contact Danmor Engineering Pty Ltd, phone 03 6445 1350, email danmor@danmor.com.au, website www.danmor.com.au
Hempcrete in Action: Delivering Sustainable, High-Performance Interiors
Case StudiesX-Hemp, Hannan Build and Australian Hemp Masonry Company delivered Australia’s largest hempcrete installations at UTAS The Forest project.
The University of Tasmania’s The Forest building is a bold testament to the potential of bio-based construction — and at its heart lies a remarkable collaboration between X-Hemp, Hannan Build, and the Australian Hemp Masonry Company. Together, these innovators brought the hempcrete vision to life across 28 teaching and learning spaces and a liftwell, marking one of Australia’s largest and most complex hempcrete installations to date.
“There was continuous communication between the three companies from the outset through to completion,” said Klara Marosszeky, Managing Director of Australian Hemp Masonry Company. “We were all committed to ensuring it was a positive experience and outcome for UTAS, Woods Bagot, and Hansen Yuncken. The project is a great opportunity to showcase the possibilities of hempcrete construction.”
Australian Hemp Masonry Company developed the hempcrete product, supplying a proprietary lime binder manufactured in Sydney and consulting on every phase of the project. They also worked closely with architects Woods Bagot from the early design stages, delivering educational sessions for their team.
Their Tasmanian partner, Andi Lucas and X-Hemp, provided the locally processed hemp hurd, ensuring the build met the university’s sustainability goals — including low embodied energy, carbon storage, and superior thermal, acoustic, and air quality performance.
Hannan Build – Shane Hannan and Tully Dunn, brought over a decade of installation expertise to the table. “This project is all about feature walls,” Klara explained. “While hempcrete is traditionally rendered, the off-form walls allowed Shane and his team to play with colour and tone — each batch of hemp bringing natural variation that’s beautifully showcased in the finished design.”
Despite the challenges of working on a multi-storey adaptive reuse site alongside hundreds of trades, the team’s collaboration and commitment ensured seamless delivery. “It’s a beautifully executed showcase project,” Klara says. “Together, we’ve demonstrated that sustainable, bio-based construction can be both beautiful and viable — and that it’s the future of Australian building.”
X-Hemp
0413 388 470
www.xhemp.au
Hannan Build
0429 658 886
Australian Hemp Masonry Company
0422 750 612
www.hempmasonry.com.au
Function and Form: Custom Lift Solutions for High-Performance Buildings
Case StudiesAccess Solutions delivered bespoke, timber-finished lifts at the University of Tasmania – The Forest, combining technical precision with design integration.
As buildings increasingly prioritise bespoke design and integrated architectural expression, vertical transport is no longer just functional. Access Solutions provided bespoke vertical transport solutions that aligned seamlessly with The Forest’s architectural and thematic vision.
“We installed six lifts into the University of Tasmania – The Forest project ranging from 400kg, 1150kg to 2500kg capacity,” says Sean Sutton, General Manager at Access Solutions. The scope included one heavy-duty cargo lift, which was prioritised early in the programme to support site logistics, followed by five custom passenger lifts.
The project demanded seamless scheduling and flexible delivery, with several lift installations occurring over the holiday period when labour resources were limited. Despite these seasonal constraints, Access Solutions maintained momentum across a nine-month installation period, with two to three teams on-site at any given time.
A defining feature of this project was the highly customised interiors that reflected The Forest’s timber-rich aesthetic. “Five of the lifts are custom made with a special interior fitout in keeping with the Forestry themes—timber wall linings, Tas oak handrails, indirect lighting and custom laid floor tiling,” Sean explained. The company collaborated with its sister business, Access Property, to deliver the bespoke lift car finishes.
“The interior design process was comprehensive,” said Sean. “We trialled over five lighting systems before we were satisfied with the indirect lighting, and sourcing the right Tas oak panelling took time.”
System integration also called for rigorous co-ordination. “Lift installation required intensive collaboration with the builder and other trades for shaft preparation and materials handling, all while maintaining a focus on safety.”
Proudly Tasmanian-owned and backed by 30 years of lift industry experience, Access Solutions views this project as a standout achievement. “Our teams can be proud of their work, and we’re proud to be part of this exciting project,” Sutton concludes.
For more information contact Access Solutions, 223 Harrington Street, Hobart TAS 7000, phone 03 6229 2476, email info@access-solutions.com.au, website www.access-solutions.com.au
Complex Geometries, Flawless Execution: Tiling with High-Performance Materials
Case StudiesTas Tiling Contractors delivered precision tiling solutions supporting architectural intent, durability, and performance at UTAS The Forest.
Tas Tiling Contractors completed a highly detailed tiling package that reflects the newly redeveloped University of Tasmania -The Forest project’s natural aesthetic and refined architectural vision.
The company was engaged to carry out tiling works across Level 2, including floors and walls of the Bridge area, along with approximately 300m² of flooring and 300m² of paving in the Level 1 car park. Works commenced in June 2024 and were completed in October 2025.
“The project involved working with detailed architectural layouts and various surface transitions, particularly around the Bridge and curved wall areas,” said Jiho Choi, Director, Tas Tiling Contractors. “Maintaining consistency in grout lines and tile alignment across complex geometries required close co-ordination with other trades and careful planning.”
One of the most technically demanding challenges was the installation of the thin brick tiles, which were cut down from full Brickworks Daniel Robertson bricks to just 20mm thick.
The project used an equal mix of three colour selections—Cambridge, Black and Buff—across the tiling surfaces. “Working with three different colours and slightly inconsistent brick sizes demanded precision and patience to ensure a uniform and high-quality finish,” Jiho explained.
Substrate preparation, levelling, and the selection of high-performance adhesives and grout systems were essential to achieving durability and performance in high-traffic areas. Tas Tiling Contractors undertook careful inspection and quality checks at each stage to ensure alignment with the design intent and long-term functional needs of the space.
“We’re proud of delivering high-quality finishes that align with the project’s natural aesthetic and architectural intent,” Jiho said. “It was a rewarding experience to contribute to such a significant Tasmanian project that combines design excellence with sustainability.”
“I’d like to thank our team for their hard work and Hansen Yuncken for their support throughout the project. We’re proud of what we achieved together,” said Jiho.
For more information contact Tas Tiling Contractors, U2 14A Main Road, Moonah TAS 7009, phone 0499 996 424, email
choi@tastiling.com
Building Performance Through Communications Infrastructure
Case StudiesILEC delivered large-scale communications infrastructure, supporting reliable digital performance across UTAS’s complex Forest redevelopment.
As universities invest in digitally enabled learning environments, communications infrastructure has become a critical layer of building performance rather than a background service. On the University of Tasmania’s The Forest redevelopment, ILEC Pty Ltd delivered large-scale structured cabling and fibre optic systems that demanded precision, coordination, and long-term reliability across a complex, highly visible campus environment.
Over a two-and-a-half-year delivery period, the Tasmanian-based electrical and communications specialist was responsible for designing and installing the project’s communications infrastructure.
“We handled all the communications infrastructure, including the structured cabling and fibre optic cabling on the project,” said James Rand, Project Manager at ILEC. “It was one of the larger projects we’ve been involved in, with around 2,400 data outlets and significant fibre infrastructure between the multiple communications rooms.”
The project’s scale and visibility made the installation particularly challenging. “There is over 100km of Cat6A cables installed throughout the building,” James explained. “A lot of it’s on display, so it all had to look good, which meant a lot of planning and attention to detail.”
Working within a live construction site, co-ordination with multiple trades was essential. “There were so many parties involved; AV, electrical, and other services,” James said. “Some of the AV packages required early handover of our cabling, so timing and sequencing were key. It was a real team effort to make sure everyone had what they needed, when they needed it.”
For James, the standout achievement was the quality of the final result. “I’m really proud of how well the team performed and how the finish came together,” he reflected. “A lot of work went into the early documentation to make sure every cable had its place, and it shows in the result.”
ILEC worked hand-in-hand with FIP Electrical Tasmania and the builders Hansen Yuncken, maintaining close collaboration from start to finish. “It’s been a long project but a great experience,” James concluded. “Everyone’s worked together really well, and we’re proud to have helped deliver something of this scale and quality for UTAS.”
For more information contact ILEC Pty Ltd, Unit 6, 2 Kennedy Drive, Cambridge TAS 7170, phone 03 6248 4255, website www.ilec.net.au
Growing the Vision: SLS Brings The Forest at UTAS to Life
Case StudiesSLS Landscape Group crafted a technically precise, immersive forest landscape, bringing tranquillity and natural beauty to the University of Tasmania – The Forest.
On projects where landscape is embedded within the building fabric, success requires construction discipline and experience in interpreting architectural intent with innovative, build-able solutions.
At the University of Tasmania’s The Forest redevelopment, SLS Landscape Group delivered a transformative living internal and external landscape that required careful sequencing, technical coordination, and a nuanced understanding of the project’s design vision.
Drawing on extensive experience delivering complex urban landscapes, SLS executed works across multiple zones, creating a cohesive forest-like environment that now sits at the heart of the campus.
“In the Atrium area, we constructed all the garden areas and planting, including the installation of the Stratavault system and forest pool,” explains Dean Harris, General Manager. “We also handled boulder placement, the timber boardwalk, irrigation including the misting system, paving base works, gravel pavement, and concrete footings for the light poles and fallen tree.”
Their detailed craftsmanship extended into the laneway, where SLS delivered garden construction, irrigation and planting, boulder placement, sandstone retaining walls, and additional forest pool installations. In the carpark precinct, they constructed the garden areas, irrigation, planting, timber handrails, and further sandstone retaining structures.
“Working in a relatively small workspace around other trades with limited access provided some challenges,” Dean said. “Sourcing suitable material for the forest pools to ensure they held water was another hurdle. And with the architect aiming to recreate a dense forest environment, fitting in all the specified plants within the space was challenging.”
Designed by Realm Architecture, the landscape intent was deeply integrated with the building’s form and the university’s sustainability-led vision. “What we were undertaking had already been designed to fit in with the overall environment. Realm has done an amazing job,” Dean explained.
For more information contact SLS Landscape Group, 14 -16 Hale Street, Derwent Park TAS 7009, phone 03 6273 0075, website www.slslandscapegroup.com.au
High-Performance Commercial Tiling Solutions
Case StudiesDynamic Hobart Tiling ensured high-quality, durable, and coordinated tiling outcomes across
diverse spaces within The Forest redevelopment.
As one of Tasmania’s emerging leaders in specialist commercial tiling services, Dynamic Hobart Tiling, led by Director Henry Nguyen (Cert IV in Construction and Building), delivered proven technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and a highly collaborative approach to the landmark University of Tasmania – The Forest development.
At the University of Tasmania’s The Forest redevelopment, Dynamic Hobart Tiling mobilised its highly skilled team of ten tradespeople to execute complex wall and floor tiling works across multiple building levels. The scope included high-use, high-expectation environments such as Level 1 End-of-Trip facilities, Level 2 Back-of-House areas, teaching spaces, and premium corporate zones, all requiring a consistently high-end architectural finish.
“This project required the installation of a wide variety of tile formats, ranging from intricate Japanese mosaics to large-format panel tiles,” explains Henry Nguyen. “Achieving the specified finish demanded advanced technical capability, accurate setting-out, and strict adherence to workmanship standards across every stage of delivery.”
To mitigate long-term waterproofing, durability, and system compatibility risks, Dynamic Hobart Tiling implemented a fully integrated Mapei system, incorporating screeds, membranes, adhesives, grouts, and silicones. “By adopting a single, fully compatible system, we were able to secure full manufacturer warranties while ensuring long-term performance and consistency across all applications,” said Henry.
Project delivery was underpinned by disciplined coordination and early engagement with the builder, consultants, and key stakeholders. Dynamic Hobart Tiling worked closely with the builder, architect, and client from initial pricing and programming through to site mobilisation and final handover, ensuring all works were delivered in strict accordance with engineering and architectural documentation.
Documentation control, sequencing, and quality assurance were managed through Aconex and BIM 360, supported by regular site meetings that maintained clear communication across trades and significantly reduced the risk of downstream rework.
For Dynamic Hobart Tiling, The Forest project demonstrates how early technical input, consistent installation methodology, and collaborative site engagement can successfully deliver complex tiling packages within high-performance institutional and commercial environments.
Established in 2022 and led by Henry Nguyen, who brings more than a decade of hands-on industry experience supported by formal construction qualifications, Dynamic Hobart Tiling has rapidly built a reputation as a trusted contractor for high-end commercial and institutional projects across Tasmania.
For more information contact Dynamic Hobart Tiling, 230-234 Murray Street, Hobart TAS 7000 phone 0416 727 768, website www.dynamichobarttiling.com.au
Seamless Furniture Integration for Future-Ready Heritage Learning Environments
Case StudiesZenith Interiors delivered custom furniture and workspace solutions, blending contemporary functionality with heritage building character.
Delivering contemporary, high-performance interiors within heritage-listed buildings demands more than furniture,
it requires nuanced understanding of the building’s function, history, and architectural intent.
Zenith Interiors delivered a highly tailored interior fit-out for the University of Tasmania’s The Forest, achieving a rare balance between contemporary workspace design and sensitive heritage integration. The scope of works included a comprehensive furniture and workspace solution across the building’s academic, research and community zones.
“This included Orbis workstations with custom Echo Panel curved and precinct screens, a suite of seating solutions including Noho Move chairs, JAC side and tub chairs, Tipo chairs, Primary tables, along with custom Verse Rooms in crafted hardwood timber and integrated storage,” said Vera Meharg, Marketing Director at Zenith Interiors.
“One of the biggest challenges was integrating contemporary furniture solutions into irregular spaces without compromising the heritage fabric or the architect’s intent for openness and connectivity,” Vera explained. Custom precinct screens and timber Verse Rooms were purpose-designed to align with the building’s historic character while delivering modern acoustic performance and privacy.
Sustainability and user wellbeing were embedded throughout the fit-out strategy. Zenith specified low-impact and recycled materials where possible, including the Noho Move chair made from upcycled materials and Echo Panel acoustic screens manufactured from recycled PET. Ergonomic seating and height-adjustable workstations were selected to support comfort, adaptability and long-term usability, while modular systems ensure the spaces can evolve over time.
“The standout achievement is the seamless integration of contemporary, flexible workspaces within a heritage-listed building. The custom Verse Rooms exemplify that balance—offering privacy and function without detracting from the building’s historic character,” said Vera. The result is a vibrant, future-ready learning environment that honours the past while supporting modern education, research and collaboration.
For more information contact Zenith Interiors, Level 6, 555 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, phone 03 9693 2600, website www.zenithinteriors.com
Sustainable Furnishing for a Future-Focused Campus
Case StudiesLiving Edge supplied 150 sustainably designed Herman Miller chairs for the University of Tasmania – The Forest, aligning with its circular design vision.
In a project defined by deep environmental responsibility and future-focused design, Living Edge played a pivotal role in equipping the University of Tasmania – The Forest with furniture that reflected the same ethos driving its architecture.
As a premium supplier of design-led, sustainably manufactured furnishings, Living Edge provided 150 Herman Miller Setu chairs, which combined performance, aesthetic integrity, and circular design thinking.
“We worked closely with Woods Bagot throughout the furniture selection process,” explained Tim Batchelor, Senior Education Consultant at Living Edge. “Beyond fit-for-purpose and ergonomics, the university was particularly interested in design for disassembly, warranties, and products with recycled and recyclable content. Given the high level of sustainability objectives for the project, Living Edge and Herman Miller were ideal partners.”
The 150 Herman Miller Setu chairs selected for The Forest exemplify this alignment. Combining ergonomic comfort with a lightweight, highly recyclable frame, the Setu embodies circular design principles, supporting long-term asset lifecycle strategies and end-of-life material recovery, key priorities within the university’s sustainability framework.
Throughout the procurement phase, Living Edge was required to provide detailed documentation confirming sustainability credentials, lifecycle transparency, and compliance with circular design frameworks. “As part of Living Edge’s LivingOn sustainability programme, this was readily available information which we were able to support Woods Bagot and the client with,” said Tim.
The Forest has been recognised as an architectural and environmental benchmark, integrating renewable materials, biophilic design, and thoughtful future-use planning. For Living Edge, contributing to a project of this calibre reflects their enduring commitment to sustainable innovation in commercial interiors.
“The Forest is an ambitious project with sustainability considered in every design element—from its new life to its end-of-life,” Tim reflects. “This aligns perfectly with Living Edge’s ‘Furniture for Life’ sustainability philosophy, which underpins every brand we bring to the Australian market.”
For more information contact Living Edge, phone 1300 132 154, email info@livingedge.com.au, website www.livingedge.com.au
Visit Living Edge in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane
Crafting Functional Beauty: Timber Joinery in Complex Adaptive Reuse
Case StudiesUCI Joinery delivered bespoke, timber-rich interiors at the University of Tasmania – The Forest, combining craftsmanship, sustainability, and commercial expertise.
UCI Joinery translated complex design intent into a cohesive, timber-rich interior for The Forest, delivering bespoke joinery solutions that combined heritage sensitivity, sustainability, and high-traffic durability. With more than 35 years in the industry and a growing footprint in the commercial sector, the project marked a defining step forward for the Tasmanian-based joinery specialist.
“Our scope covered a wide range of joinery elements,” said Karina Allan, Manager at UCI Joinery. “That included kitchen and print-point joinery, along with a substantial amount of planter and integrated seating joinery throughout the building, including the Corporate Services and TCoE (Kobe) zones.”
Timber was the defining material across the entire package, aligning with both the heritage nature of the former forestry warehouse and the sustainability ambitions of the project. “Everything was based around timber—lots of veneer and solid timber finishes,” Karina said. “That material choice really supported the story of the building and helped retain a strong connection to its original purpose as a forestry facility.”
Sustainability was a major driver in the project’s material direction. “That’s one of the reasons timber features so heavily,” Karina explained. “The finishes link back to the building’s history, but they also support the project’s environmental objectives, which were a big focus throughout.”
For UCI Joinery, the project presented a departure from standard commercial work and demanded a highly customised approach. “It was very different to what we’d done before. It’s very bespoke,” Karina said. “Every element felt special because it required so much tailoring to the space.”
Despite the complexities of the project, the UCI team embraced the opportunity to explore a wider application of joinery in commercial and high traffic spaces, stretching their expertise to deliver a thematic, high-quality commercial solution.
The result is a refined, timber-rich interior that enhances both the beauty and usability of The Forest, reflecting UCI Joinery’s growing reputation for craftsmanship in complex, design-led environments.
For more information contact UCI Joinery, 14-16 Tasma Street, Hobart TAS 7000, phone 03 6425 1399, email hobart@ucitas.com.au, website www.uci.com.au