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From Concept to Completion: The Value of an Integrated Façade Approach

Chevalier (Aluminium Engineering) Limited

As Australian construction projects grow more architecturally ambitious, the demand for façade contractors who can do more than simply install cladding has never been greater.

Chevalier (Aluminium Engineering) Limited is meeting that demand head-on by bringing together in-house design, engineering, fabrication, and project management capabilities.

“Chevalier has in-house design, engineering, fabrication, and project management teams, making us one of the few façade contractors in Australia that still operates its own manufacturing facility for façade products,” said General Manager Vivian Leung. “With full control over the entire process, we are able to achieve exceptional efficiency, maintain strict quality control, and ensure timely project delivery.”

That integrated model is not simply a point of difference; it is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for the complexity of modern façade work.

That capability was demonstrated on the Harbourside Redevelopment, where the façade design included a series of highly articulated vertical fins intended to replicate the organic texture of weathered sandstone. The original concept called for glass reinforced concrete (GRC). Chevalier’s team, led by Project Managers Max Li and Charles Han, proposed and successfully delivered a precision-engineered aluminium solution, achieving the architect’s intended appearance while reducing weight, improving manufacturing accuracy, and enhancing the façade’s overall sustainability performance.

“Through detailed 3D modelling, extensive prototyping, precision welding, and hand-finishing, we were able to demonstrate that aluminium could faithfully replicate the architect’s vision while delivering real advantages in quality and constructability,” says Max Li. The project also incorporated low-carbon aluminium produced using renewable energy, directly contributing to the development’s sustainability objectives.

On site, the delivery was driven by an experienced installation team including Feng Ji, Frank Qi, Colin Li, and Lucas Gong. “Successful façade installation relies on experienced people, early planning, and genuine collaboration with every trade on site,” explained site team member Feng Ji. “That’s what made Harbourside work.”

The Sydney Biomedical Accelerator (SBA) demonstrated a different dimension of Chevalier’s integrated delivery model. With an architecturally complex façade geometry and demanding structural, weatherproofing, thermal, and acoustic performance requirements, the project relied on close collaboration between design, engineering, fabrication, and project management from the earliest stages.

Project Managers Charles Han and Fred Fan led Chevalier’s response, which centred on extensive early-stage engineering coordination and 3D modelling to identify and resolve interface issues before fabrication commenced, reducing construction risk while creating a smoother pathway for manufacturing and installation.

“The complexity of the SBA demanded that our engineering and design teams were embedded in the project from the very beginning,” explained Charles Han. “By working through the critical details early, we were able to streamline fabrication and installation significantly, and ensure compliance with the project’s strict performance criteria.”

At Iglu Kingsford, multiple materials and systems have been selected to create a single coordinated facade design. Curtain walling, aluminium cladding, terracotta panels, and GRC sunshade elements each bring different structural, manufacturing, and installation requirements.

By bringing design, engineering, fabrication, and project delivery together, Chevalier is able to coordinate those interfaces throughout the project lifecycle rather than resolving them as they arise during construction. Site team members Henry Guo and Charlotte He are central to managing that coordination on the ground.

“The key challenge is ensuring seamless integration between different materials and systems while maintaining the architectural intent and construction programme,” explained Charlotte He. “Having our design, engineering, and fabrication teams all working together makes that coordination significantly more manageable.”

Chevalier’s integrated model has enabled the company to approach façades as complete building systems rather than individual manufactured components. From re-engineering complex architectural features at Harbourside, to resolving performance requirements at the Sydney Biomedical Accelerator, and coordinating multiple façade systems at Iglu Kingsford, the approach provides project teams with greater certainty from design through to installation.

“As buildings become more complex and performance expectations continue to rise, façade contractors need to contribute genuine technical expertise throughout the project lifecycle. Our integrated team allows us to work alongside architects, builders, and developers to deliver solutions that are both ambitious and practical,” explained Vivian Leung.

For more information contact Chevalier (Aluminium Engineering) Limited, Suite 2003, 109 Pitt Street, NSW 2000, phone 02 9232 3189, email cae@chevalier.com, website www.chevalier.com




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Technical Input That Shapes Better Façade Outcomes

Ultrafix Commercial Pty Ltd

Founded in 1999 and based in Pakenham, Victoria, Ultrafix Commercial Pty Ltd has delivered commercial aluminium windows, doors and glazing packages for more than 27 years across education, retail and commercial projects.

“When you work with Ultrafix, we become an integral part of your builder’s programme,” said Director Jason Male. “No matter the situation, we deliver quality on time, every time. It’s that can-do, reliable attitude that you can expect from working with our team.”

That approach was demonstrated at St Francis Catholic College, where Ultrafix delivered the project’s windows, doors and glazing package.

Working with a team of seven, the company installed the distinctive segmented curtain wall system incorporating structural corner box sections and spandrel glazing adaptors on the south façade.

The project required careful problem-solving from the outset to resolve structural glazing constraints. Ultrafix contributed to the design of the final façade, creating a solution that was not only buildabile, but also balanced structural requirements with the project’s architectural intent.

Supported by a team of 17 experienced professionals, Ultrafix continues to deliver aluminium window, door and glazing packages across education, retail and commercial projects throughout Victoria.

While fabrication and installation remain core elements of façade delivery, projects involving bespoke glazing systems often require specialist input well before materials arrive on site. By contributing during design development, contractors can help address structural glazing constraints, improve constructability and support efficient project delivery.

This integrated approach continues to inform Ultrafix’s work across commercial, education and retail developments throughout Victoria.

For more information contact Ultrafix Commercial Pty Ltd, 1/23 Southeast Boulevard, Pakenham VIC 3810, phone 03 5940 0666, email admin@ultrafix.com.au, website www.ultrafix.com.au



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Heritage Glazing Solutions: Preserving Character with modern Façades

Altitude Facades

In premium architectural projects, the facade is often where design ambition is won or lost. Delivering bespoke finishes, large-format glazing, and heritage-inspired detailing requires far more than product supply, it demands specialist expertise capable of transforming architectural intent into built reality.

This challenge is particularly evident in adaptive reuse developments, where façade systems must preserve a building’s architectural character while meeting contemporary performance, compliance, and constructability requirements.

For Altitude Facades NSW, these complex projects sit at the core of the company’s expertise. Established in 2014 and led by Managing Director Rino Soriente, whose 40 years of industry experience spans some of Sydney’s most significant projects, specialising in bespoke architectural glass, aluminium, and steel facades, cladding, windows, and canopies.

At the Rosebery Engine Yards refurbishment, Altitude Facades NSW delivered a customised steel glazing package that combined heritage authenticity with contemporary performance requirements. Responsible for the complete design, engineering, supply, and installation scope, the company navigated strict heritage requirements while maintaining the precision craftsmanship needed to realise the project’s architectural vision.

“This was an adaptive reuse project with a strict heritage compliance standard,” says Rino. “Every glazing and façade element had to match the original intent of the building, which required an exceptional level of care from design right through to installation.”

The scope included more than 2,500m² of clerestory windows and what is anticipated to be Australia’s largest pivot doors for a commercial retail setting. This remarkable achievement required the doors to be designed and fabricated entirely in-house, with a hand-applied rust finish used to achieve an authentic heritage aesthetic. Frameless glass doors completed the shopfront treatment.

Current projects include the Cutaway, SCEGGS Wilkingson House refurbishment, 175 Pitt Street, an early learning centre in Turramurra, and a façade refurbishment at Bondi Westfields.

For more information contact Altitude Facades, 105/14 Loyalty Road, North Rocks NSW 2151, phone 0424 262 557, email sales@altitudegroup.net.au , website www.altitudefacades.com.au



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Pioneering Complex Curtainwall and Façade Engineering

Ausrise Façades delivers precision-engineered, curtain walls and architectural façades, combining innovation, and technical excellence.

Ausrise Facades

For over two decades, Ausrise Façades has been at the forefront of façade innovation and precision, specialising in complex curtainwall systems, high- performance glazing, and architectural cladding solutions across Australia.

With 23 years of experience and a skilled team of 50 professionals, the company has become synonymous with quality, craftsmanship,
and collaborative delivery, which were on display in their recent work on the UNSW Health Translation Hub (HTH) project.

Located within the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct, the HTH project posed a unique opportunity and significant technical challenge: to create a world-class façade system for a facility that brings together education, research, and clinical care under one roof.

“Our scope of work included all external curtain wall façades—glass, GRC (glass reinforced concrete), aluminium feature elements, fixed louvres, and frameless glazing at the podium,” said Kevin Hartin, Director at Ausrise Façades. “Every one of our 50 staff members was involved in this project in some capacity. It was truly an all-hands on effort.”

From the outset, the HTH’s architectural ambition was clear, with striking geometric forms and curved aluminium and GRC features shaping the building’s exterior. Ausrise was brought on for their ability to deliver complex façade systems with high technical accuracy and aesthetic precision.

“What made this project really stand out were the scale and shape of the GRC projections,” Kevin explained. “They involved large- format panels with very tight tolerances and complex curvature that pushed the limits of conventional fabrication and installation.”

Overcoming the engineering challenges of both these curved aluminium and GRC elements required early engagement with structural consultants, iterative 3D modelling, and customised mounting systems.

The Ausrise team worked closely with the builder, architect, and façade engineers to ensure every panel aligned with the architectural vision while maintaining long-term durability and thermal performance.

The podium-level frameless glazing system also presented logistical and sequencing complexities. These were resolved through meticulous staging and real-time coordination with other trades. Despite the scale and technical difficulty, Ausrise delivered their scope on time and to specification.

“The HTH project exemplified what Ausrise does best, bringing engineering, fabrication, and site installation together seamlessly to meet architectural intent,” said Kevin. “We’re proud to have been part of such an important project for UNSW and the broader research community.”

Beyond the HTH, Ausrise continues to push the boundaries of architectural façade delivery. The company is currently working on the Macquarie University Engineering and Astronomy Building, another architecturally ambitious project that showcases their deep capability in technical façade solutions.

With a growing portfolio of major university, commercial, and public infrastructure projects, Ausrise remains committed to its founding values of quality, innovation, and collaboration. Their vertically integrated model (combining in-house design, manufacturing, and installation,) enables them to tackle increasingly complex façades with confidence and precision.

“Over the past 23 years, we’ve built our reputation on consistency and problem- solving,” Kevin noted. “Every project is different, and we pride ourselves on adapting our systems and processes to suit. At the end of the day, it’s about delivering value, performance, and design excellence to our clients.”

For more information contact Ausrise Façades, 6/5 Clerke Place, Kurnell NSW 2231 Kevin Hartin – phone 0422 803 933, email kevin@ausrise.com.au, Paul White – phone 0422 803 932, email paul@ausrise.com.au, website www.ausrise.com.au

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Crafting Architectural Character With Quality Cladding

East Group Interiors delivered high-quality cladding and internal linings, bringing bold architectural vision to life.

East Coast Interiors

When TOGA Group set out to deliver the ambitious MADE Marrickville project, they knew it would require trusted trade professionals capable of delivering both style and substance.

One of those key collaborators was East Group Interiors, a Sydney-based gyprock and cladding specialist that brought exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to the table.

Founded in 2021 by William Liu—following nearly a decade at the helm of East Group Construction—East Group Interiors has quickly earned a reputation for high-quality internal and external lining and cladding works. “We specialise in gyprock works, focusing on both internal and external applications,” said Operations Director Steven Zou.

Their scope at MADE Marrickville was extensive, covering internal plasterboard walls and ceilings, Alpha Panel concrete partition lining, and external Alpha Panel cladding. The striking green aluminium feature blades that wrap the building façade are a standout on the project.

“It’s a perfect combination,” says Steven. “We were honoured that TOGA trusted us with both cladding packages—and we didn’t disappoint.”

The project wasn’t without its challenges. “The programme was extremely tight, but we brought in experienced workers and maintained a high standard,” Steven explains. “Even over Christmas, we only took one week off. William and I always believe in under-promising and over-delivering.”

Perhaps most rewarding was seeing the architect’s industrial vision come to life. “At first, we questioned using Alpha Panel as cladding—it’s a raw material, not a finished one. But once we understood the design intent, we focused intensely on quality. Now, the façade looks fantastic.”

Steven credits their success to a values-led approach. “Honesty, integrity, and transparency—that’s how we run our business. That’s how we keep delivering for our customers.”

For more information contact East Group Interiors, C8/101 Rookwood Road, Yagoona NSW 2199, phone 02 9708 3972, mobile (Steven) 0411 704 796, email estimating@eginteriors.com.au, website www.eginteriors.com.au

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