The story of WS2 began with GDI’s vision to create value using spare plot ratio to transform an unappealing and underutilised annex on the existing Westralia Square site. The prime space on the existing unmatched access to major rail, bus and road networks but it’s position between buildings and above a busy operating car park required a strategic and technical approach. 

Working closely with Arup, GDI tasked the team with the challenge of creating a sustainable and boutique office building which maximised new net lettable area with minimal impact to the income producing carpark below St Georges Terrace level. 

Arup ascertained that the existing grid capacity of neighbouring Westralia Square could support the new building however the structure could only hold three storeys of concrete structure. The alternative which was put forward was a steel frame structure with cross-laminated timber (CLT) floor plate which provided the significant benefit of a circa 70 per cent embodied carbon saving compared to the reinforced concrete equivalent.

To design 12 levels of 880m² floorplates to fit the existing building structure Arup designed an elegant engineering solution of sloped load transfer beams to connect both buildings and provide support via a diamond-shaped steel bracing system on the outside of the building. This design balanced the building’s load without adding extra mass to the design. 

The engineered solution was embraced by Benson MacCormack Architects who chose to express the diagonal structural elements, at plaza level and behind the façade on each tenancy level providing a unique and honest architectural language. 

With such a novel approach, a building partner capable of pioneering new construction methods and reinventing possibilities was required. Built was a clear stand out as a tier one builder with deep experience in adaptive re-use. 

Engaged under an ECI, Built adopted their ‘digital-first approach’ to further test engineering and building logistical challenges and to produce detailed design and shop drawings well ahead of site commencement. This allowed for early procurement of off-site manufacture items, a high level of quality and cost control and reduced site re-work. 

Once on site, the WS2 structure and facade was built approximately 30% faster than a similar conventional concrete structure with significantly less labour at a time when the construction industry was significantly constrained by covid and post-covid labour shortages. The works incorporated significant precinct works and transformed the Westralia Square precinct. 

The Perth office market response to WS2 has been overwhelmingly positive and exceeded expectations, resulting in the asset being over 80% leased before Practical Completion and setting some of the highest face rents during this economic cycle.

While WS2 has become known for only world class innovation and green credentials, it has only been made possible through the collaboration of its best in class, multi-disciplinary team.