Viega fittings chosen for Queensland's "Tower of Power"
Proven track record earns Viega place in iconic building
A high profile, high-rise building in the centre of Brisbane that houses Queensland Government offices, including 5000 public servants. It’s the sort of project that attracts a lot of public and media interest – and industry accolade, having been awarded the 2017 Brisbane Project of the Year by Master Builders Queensland.
Dubbed The Tower of Power, 1 William Street (1WS) is the tallest commercial building in Brisbane and the Queensland Government’s Executive Building, which occupies all 40 floors.
Jointly owned by Cbus Property and ISPT, this Premium Grade office tower is described as “an iconic built form that embodies the optimism and confidence of Queensland, while responding to the city, the environment, the lower George Street precinct, and the contemporary workplace.”
So, when it came to choosing pipework products for this prestigious and high-profile project, contractor Axis Plumbing turned to Viega. “Viega’s proven track record, warranties and on-site training were among the reasons we chose them for this project,” Axis Plumbing’s Queensland Project Manager Rob McAlister says. "Also, the removal of hot works certainly assisted with the choice to use press systems."
Rob also understands the technical capability of the Viega press fit system and its suitability for large projects such as 1WS. Axis was able to complete its works on time as well as have the assurance that services were installed with the integrity that is synonymous with Viega’s German-made zero-defect press fittings.
“The best thing about the Viega Propress system is that it offers fast, flexible and safe copper pipework installation, which helps overcome the challenges of working on such a large-scale project,” says Rob. “The product gives us the ability to capture any unpressed joints thanks to their Smart Connect-Feature.”
Green Credentials
Axis Plumbing provides a range of specialist building services for the construction and maintenance phases within the commercial building market centre. The globally renowned group has had extensive involvement in Green Star projects and prides itself on providing quality services. It was telling that Axis Plumbing specifically chose Viega products for the job.
1WS is not only the tallest commercial building in Queensland’s capital but is also designed to be the catalyst for the revitalisation of the Queens Wharf precinct. The upgraded precinct will include a mix of office and commercial spaces, hotels, a casino, cultural facilities, residential developments, and retail centres.
The design also aims to achieve a high level of environmental credentials, targeting a minimum 5.0 Star Green Star Office Design Rating (V3) and a 5.0 star NABERS Energy rating.
As with any project of this size, and with so many trades working around each other, it was imperative to maintain a strict timetable. “With regards to the copper press systems, simplicity and time were specific requirements,” Rob says. “I have used the Viega system on many other projects previously.”
1WS, which welcomed its first occupants in October 2016, is unique for more than its size. Each floor has a theme and colour scheme dedicated to a Queensland icon or natural phenomena. The top levels, 40 and 41 (the new home of Queensland’s Premier), are dedicated to the water dragon, while sugar cane rules the three levels below.
