Builder: Brookfield Multiplex
Architect: Lysons Architects
Contractor: Expoconti
Project Value: $220million

RMIT University is Australia’s largest tertiary institution, so when it came to consolidating three of their existing academic colleges onto the Swanston Street Campus, covering a massive 35,000m2 and costing more than $220 million, it provided the perfect opportunity for Contractors, Expoconti and Rondo to work together on another significant project.

Expoconti and Rondo, along with the project architects, Lysons Architects and builder, Brookfield Multiplex, are combining their expertise to ensure the design and construction of the RMIT Swanston Academic Building (SAB) offers a higher quality and innovative learning experience for students.

To achieve this, the newly launched Rondo MAXIframe® External Wall Framing System was specified, with Rondo MAXIjamb® designed for installation around door jambs and internal window openings. This meant Expoconti could save time on site as MAXIjamb replaces the necessity for multiple stud configurations, as well as offering greater performance capacities than traditional wall stud framing.

In addition to MAXIframe, Rondo has been supplying KEY-LOCK® Suspended Ceiling Systems, Steel Stud Drywall Framing Systems and DUO® Exposed Grid Ceiling Systems. To date, Rondo has supplied a total of 91,000l/m of product for inclusive use on 15 stories and to ensure Rondo is always on hand to resolve any onsite obstacles, a Rondo technical representative has been making weekly site inspections and will continue to do so until the project is complete.

Due for completion in October 2012, RMIT University will provide students and staff with 12 lecture theatres, 64 teaching spaces, 10 specialist learning venues, two-storey cantilevered student portal, nine additional double height student portals for study and recreation, landscaped indoor gardens and a high performance facade with double glazing and sun shadows.