Case Study: Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre

Client: Harry Seilder & Associates

Project
The $40 million Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre was commissioned by the City of Sydney to address Sydney's need to get physical.This landmark development boasts three pools, a spa, steam room and gym over three storeys, setting a new benchmark for leisure centres worldwide.The centre meets the demands of the booming inner-city suburb of Ultimo and has made a double splash by maintaining a design focus on environmental sustainability.

Designed by the late, world renowned, Australian architect Harry Seidler, the centre's unique wave-shaped roof features hydraulically operable roof vents that create natural ventilation. Harvested rain water serves internal amenities such as toilets and sprinkler systems, and sensor activated lighting minimises wasted energy.

Our role
Rider Levett Bucknall assisted Harry Seilder & Associates to establish a reliable budget and manage the construction cost of the Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre during the project's design, tendering and construction stages.

Client benefits
Rider Levett Bucknall worked closely with Harry Seidler & Associates and the design team throughout the project. Director Mr Stephen Mee explained that strong relationships ensured "the integrity of the major design elements were accommodated within the project budget."

Early consultation with sub-contactors ensured accurate, market-relevant pricing was translated and adopted into the project cost plan.

Testimonial
"Rider Levett Bucknall have always been very keen and professional in the provision of their services from initial cost plan advice provided at competition stage, through the various design changes and associated estimates, their advice during the tender process and finally in the administration of progress claims during construction."
John Curro, Harry Seidler & Associates