RB&A ensured consistent residential fitout quality through in-house manufacturing, coordinated installation, and close project collaboration.
RB&A by Design
RB&A by Design has played a key role in delivering the refined internal finishes at LOUISE, contributing to the high-quality residential outcome through its specialist glazing and fitout expertise.
Working across the 17-storey development, RB&A was engaged to deliver a comprehensive internal package which required a consistent, high-calibre finish across approximately 89 apartments, each designed to reflect a carefully curated architectural vision.
“Our scope included the supply, manufacture and installation of wardrobe sliding doors, shower screens, mirrors and glass kitchen splashbacks,” said Director Bart Bara. “It was about ensuring every element aligned with the overall design intent while maintaining quality across the entire project.”
Achieving this alignment required a structured and collaborative approach from the outset. RB&A worked closely with the project team through a detailed shop drawing process, ensuring all designs were reviewed and approved prior to manufacture. This was further supported by physical sample sign-offs, providing certainty that finishes and materials met both client and architect expectations.
“Materials were selected as per specification, and the design was run through a shop drawing process, approved by both the client and architect,” Bart explained. “Physical samples were also signed off, which helped ensure the final product met the intended standard.”
Consistency across a high-volume residential project is a key challenge, particularly where multiple apartments must achieve uniform finishes within tight construction timeframes. RB&A addressed this through its vertically integrated model, leveraging in-house manufacturing capabilities to maintain strict quality control throughout production.
“RB&A has the capacity to purchase materials in bulk, which reduces variation between batches,” Bart said. “The majority of our finished products are manufactured in our Clayton facility, where we have strict guidelines around quality control before installation.”
This in-house capability not only ensured product consistency but also supported efficient project delivery. With dedicated full-time installation teams, RB&A was able to allocate experienced personnel to site, ensuring works progressed smoothly and in line with programme requirements.
“On site, we have full-time installation teams, and we assign the right personnel to meet the specific requirements of the project,” Bart added. “That allows us to maintain efficiency and deliver on time from start through to handover.”
Sequencing and coordination were critical to the success of the fitout phase, particularly given the number of trades involved. RB&A worked closely with the builder and other subcontractors to align its installation programme with key trades, including kitchen installers, plasterers, tilers and painters.
“We sequenced our works around other trades as per the construction programme,” Bart said. “Having in-house manufacturing reduces lead times, which gives us the flexibility to fit in with the overall sequencing and minimise delays.”
Material performance and durability were also key considerations, particularly in a residential environment where long-term use and ease of maintenance are essential. “All systems we supply and install exceed industry and Australian standards,” Bart noted. “That ensures durability, performance and long-term value for the end user.”
The result is a cohesive and high-quality internal finish that complements the broader architectural vision of LOUISE. Despite the complexity of delivering multiple scopes within a tight programme, RB&A successfully integrated its works with the wider construction team, contributing to a seamless project outcome.
“The project was notable for us because we were able to deliver a high calibre finish within a tight timeframe, working around multiple trades,” Bart said. “We’re very pleased with how our team integrated on site to deliver a successful outcome for everyone involved.”
For more information contact RB&A by Design, 1503 Centre Road, Clayton 3168 VIC 3175, phone 0433 185 500, website www.rbadesign.com.au