David Jones Redevelopment Awarded for Innovation

A major redevelopment of the David Jones store in central Melbourne has won an innovation award from the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS).

The inaugural AIQS Infinite Value Awards honoured projects that, according to the Institute, "push boundaries in terms of design, development and delivery".

BlueScope Steel was the naming supporter of the award and the redevelopment's quantity surveyor, WT Partnership, accepted the award from BlueScope Steel business development manager for Victoria and Tasmania, Josh Dolan.

Paul Sullivan, WT Partnership's director in charge of the project, who oversaw all costs, said the award brought a strong sense of satisfaction.

"It is pleasing to receive this accolade for what was a challenging but ultimately rewarding project, where the team needed to overcome a number of architectural and engineering problems while adhering to budget," he said.

"The amount of construction and alteration was vast.

"The new central atrium, with its scissor-style escalators, was especially tricky to realise. As per modern design codes, it had to be made into a fully structural member of the original buildings while also standing alone.

"Due to the additional storey added on the east side of the building, existing building columns required major strengthening at all levels and foundations were enlarged.

"The team was also very conscious of protecting original heritage features, store fittings and stock whilst minimising noise and vibration disturbance," Mr Sullivan said.

AQIS CEO Michael Manikas said the redevelopment had impressed judges in key areas, earning it the top honour over two other strongly credentialed finalists.

"Challenges faced included demolition of several buildings to make way for major new structures, including a brand new central atrium, and moving of the lift core from the centre to the side.

"The team also ensured the store remained open throughout construction with minimal interruption to patrons and the efficient containment of building dust.

"Finally, judges recognised the outstanding quality of the fit-out," Mr Manikas said.

BlueScope Steel market manager - commercial and industrial - Manu Siitonen said the Australian steel maker was proud to be associated with the AIQS Infinite Value Innovation Award.

"We are delighted that, through our sponsorship of this award, we can assist in recognising such standard-setting projects," Mr Siitonen said.

"When walking through the David Jones store the result is obviously spectacular and demonstrates the project team's tremendous foresight and ability."