The Big Issue

Transformation within five weeks

Schiavello Construction’s role as construction manager saw responsibility for all aspects of the fitout which was required to be completed in a compressed timeframe of five weeks.

When construction commenced only the base build plans had been completed, with the design and construct fitout plans being completed in the first weeks of construction. It was Schiavello Construction’s involvement in this stage that allowed for the works to be completed in a compressed timeframe.

Working off a sketch plan Schiavello Construction transformed the space, which had been unused for years and was filled with rubble, to incorporate six new offices into the space, a kitchen, reception area, meeting and training areas.

Using all of Schiavello's resources

Having control over all the trades including the painting, partitions, electrical, mechanical and fire protection services, feature fixture installation, architectural joinery and signage through Schiavello’s in-house resources, provided the resources in a timely manner. This ensured the progress of works met the accelerated program and was finished in five weeks.

Schiavello provided all site management, preliminaries and supervision as a free service and completed the construction works at cost price for The Big Issue, as a continuation of the relationship with Westpac and to extend the generosity that Westpac had shown by offering the space at a charitable lease rate.

A first class office

“Through our partnership with Westpac we were introduced to Schiavello Construction who have done a truly remarkable job in transforming an unused basement to a first class office that The Big Issue staff and our program participants will benefit from for years to come.

To be provided with the use of a new custom designed office space is an opportunity that we never thought would be available to us and we have been overwhelmed by the generosity, commitment and hard work of everyone involved.”

Tim Dempster, Business Manager - The Big Issue.