Rethinking Construction Economics: Strategic Imperatives for Sustainable Infrastructure
As the construction sector grapples with an evolving economic landscape, it is imperative that industry stakeholders adopt a more analytical approach to understanding and addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with the cost of construction. The confluence of recent global events, such as the pandemic and geopolitical tensions, has undeniably exacerbated existing issues, but these are merely symptoms of deeper, systemic inefficiencies that require strategic intervention.
Firstly, it is critical to recognise the inherent complexities in construction economics which are influenced by both supply chain dynamics and regulatory environments. The stabilisation of material costs, although a welcome development, does not offset the increased volatility in labour markets and compliance requirements. These elements are not isolated; they are intricately linked with broader economic policies and labour strategies.
The significant demand for resources driven by large-scale infrastructure projects in Queensland and New South Wales highlights a strategic misalignment in resource allocation. This not only inflates costs but also diverts critical skills and materials away from local projects here in the ACT. Moreover, the escalating layers of compliance, while intended to enhance safety and quality, have paradoxically decreased productivity by increasing the administrative burden on construction firms.
Addressing the labour shortages requires a dual approach: improving the attractiveness of the construction industry as a career option and enhancing the skill set of the existing workforce. This is not merely a question of increasing numbers but of fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce. The underrepresentation of women, for instance, is not just a social issue but a significant untapped resource that could help alleviate some of the labour shortages that are currently driving up costs.
Furthermore, in recent times, the risk allocation in construction contracts has shown a worrying trend towards placing an unsustainable burden on contractors. Many contracts now require contractors to assume responsibility for unforeseen underground conditions, such as unexpected rock formations or contaminated soil. Additionally, contractors are often expected to manage risks associated with weather events, such as severe storms or prolonged rainfall, which can delay projects and increase costs significantly. This practice compels contractors to either inflate their bids to cover these potential risks or face severe financial consequences if such conditions are encountered. These risks, often outside of their control and difficult to predict, not only jeopardise their financial stability but also discourage them from bidding on projects, leading to less competition and higher overall costs in the construction industry.
Looking ahead to the next 12 to 36 months, particularly within the Canberra region, stakeholders must navigate these challenges with a clear strategic focus. The anticipated rise in labour costs, driven by union negotiations in Queensland and New South Wales, will likely have a cascading effect on project budgets and timelines in the Territory. This necessitates a proactive approach to labour relations and wage policies to prevent these costs from undermining the viability of key infrastructure projects.
The construction industry stands at a pivotal juncture. To move forward sustainably, there needs to be a concerted effort across all levels of the industry to adopt more strategic, thoughtful approaches to resource management, regulatory compliance and workforce development. By addressing these issues head-on, we can ensure that our infrastructure not only meets today’s demands but is also resilient enough to serve future generations.
Manteena Teams Up with the Australian Sports Commission on a Major Project.
Manteena has secured a significant contract with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) to develop an innovative hypoxic system at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). This cutting-edge project is set to transform the training landscape for Australia’s top athletes, offering them a unique advantage through altitude enhancements right where they live.
Project Highlights: AIS Altitude House
The core of this initiative is to revamp four residential clusters in the existing Block E of AIS Residence of Champions to house 22 athletes. The focus extends beyond just altitude training advantages to significantly improving access and living standards for the athletes.
Key Developments
Collaborative Excellence
This project is a collaborative effort between Manteena and the ASC, driven by a shared goal to provide top-tier facilities for athletes. Manteena’s expertise in construction combined with the ASC’s vision paves the way for setting new standards in sports training infrastructure in Australia.
Advancing Athletic Training
The AIS Altitude House project aims to do more than just build and refurbish; it seeks to give Australian athletes a performance edge. By integrating hypoxic systems that simulate high-altitude conditions, athletes can look forward to benefits such as better endurance and faster recovery, crucial for excelling on the international stage.
As the project kicks off, Manteena is committed to delivering a facility that not only meets but surpasses expectations, ensuring Australian athletes have the resources they need for years to come.
Manteena is pleased to announce that we have re-signed as the major sponsor of the Women’s XV for the upcoming 2024 season. Manteena is now entering our third year as the major sponsor of the women’s program. With new coach Duke To’o on board and the recruitment of Wallaroo fly-half Jay Huriwai, we are looking forward to watching a revamped Women’s Whites XV take the field and seeing them continue on their winning ways.
“We are once again thrilled to be supporting the women’s rugby program and in particular the pathway opportunities that open up for the women coming through the playing ranks at the Queanbeyan Whites,” says Mark Bauer, Manteena CEO.
“We know the Whites have a strong junior program and can’t wait to see what this new wave of talent injects into the senior side.
“Our association with the Whites reinforces our strong commitment to support local community clubs from Queanbeyan, ACT and the surrounding region”.
Best of luck for the season!
We are pleased to announce the completion of Symonston East Edge 2, a collaborative effort between Manteena, Evri Group and Turco and Associates. This state-of-the-art three-story office building, with over 6,000 square meters of space, reflects a commitment to sustainability and innovation in line with the ACT Government’s environmental initiatives. A standout feature of this project is the transition from traditional gas boilers to an entirely electric heating and cooling system, a move inspired by the ACT Government’s push for more energy-efficient infrastructure. This shift not only places our project at the forefront of technological adoption in Canberra but also exemplifies our transition towards a dynamic “design and construct” approach. By collaborating with subcontractors possessing specialised global expertise, we ensured that Symonston East Edge 2 leads in sustainability and energy efficiency, demonstrating our dedication to contributing positively to the environment and the community.
From the outset, our goal was clear: to leverage our expertise in buildability to achieve the best design and cost efficiencies. The partnership between Manteena and Evri Group turned potential into reality, with construction commencing in July 2022.
The building’s rapid construction featured a mix of concrete and steel, highlighted by a striking internal atrium that connects tenancies.
The project boasts a bespoke curtain wall façade, designed in Australia and fabricated in Thailand, marrying aesthetics with functionality. The landscaping complements this, offering a secure yet welcoming outdoor area and connection with the adjacent Red Baron Café..
Our partnership with TFG Facades exemplifies our dedication to innovative solutions, optimising the façade system to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The architectural design required precision fabrication to ensure a the seamless installation.
The interior design, featuring elegant travertine tiles and bespoke ceilings, creates a warm ambiance. Embracing sustainability, the building adopts s state-of-the-art electric heating and cooling system and introduced cutting-edge water management technologies.
Addressing the building’s unique façade and engineering hurdles, such as a 15-meter suspended beam, showcases Manteena’s skill in merging complex designs with practical construction methods. Integrating stringent security measures without compromising design quality was also a key achievement.
The building is at the forefront of sustainable design, with features like a 99kW solar panel system and facilities encouraging eco-friendly transport options. These elements, alongside innovative shower facilities and EV charging stations, underscore our commitment to environmental responsibility.
Handing over Symonston East Edge 2 to Evri Group signifies a significant step forward in our mission to drive innovation and sustainability in the construction sector. This project reflects our capability to deliver top-tier, eco-friendly construction solutions and a commitment to advancing the industry.
Manteena’s Net Zero Emissions Commitment – Paving the Way for a Sustainable Tomorrow
At Manteena, we believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in safeguarding our planet. As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, we are proud to announce our Net Zero Emissions Commitment. Read below as we outline the details of our strategy, its significance and the steps we are taking to achieve our ambitious goals.
What Is Net Zero Emissions?
Net Zero Emissions refers to achieving a balance between the greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere and those removed or offset. In simpler terms, it means that the total emissions produced by our operations are effectively neutralised through various measures.
Our Three Pillars of Action
1. Reducing Our Carbon Footprint
We recognise that minimising our impact on the environment starts with reducing our carbon footprint. Here is how we are doing it:
2. Offsetting Emissions
While reducing emissions is crucial, some unavoidable emissions remain. To address this, we are actively participating in carbon offset projects. One such project we are proud to sponsor is the Mai Ndombe REDD+ Project in the Congo. By preventing deforestation and supporting local communities, we are making a positive impact.
3. Engaging Our Stakeholders
Our strategy extends beyond our organisation. We are collaborating with clients, suppliers and industry partners to create a ripple effect. Together, we can drive change and inspire others to adopt sustainable practices.
The Benefits
The Outcome
Manteena has achieved the status of being a Net Zero (Scope 1 & 2) company. Additionally, we have established a dedicated working group to address the long-term objective of reducing Scope 3 emissions in collaboration with both the government and industry stakeholders.
We are excited to share that Manteena Security, along with the Museum of Australian Democracy OPH Heritage and Capital Projects, International Conservation Services, Celia Cramer Conservation, Conservation Works, Eric Martin & Associates and Art & Archival, has been recognised with the first-place award in the “Architecture and Building Conservation” category at the 2023 National Trust (ACT) Heritage Awards.
This award recognises the outstanding conservation and restoration work on heritage-listed buildings. A huge shout out to: Claire, Alex, Dylan, Jess, Matt F, Remo and the entire team for your incredible contribution to this project. Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off and this award underscores our commitment to preserving and restoring heritage with the highest standard of excellence. It was a huge honour to be entrusted by the Museum of Australian Democracy OPH Heritage and Capital Projects and to work closely with the design team, heritage & conservation experts and all our other subcontractors.
Restoring a National Icon: Old Parliament House
The recent restoration of the Old Parliament House, a site of profound historical significance in Australia, presented a unique challenge. This iconic building, representing the unity between the crown and people, suffered extensive fire damage, marking a somber moment in our national history. The damage was not just physical but symbolic, affecting a structure deeply intertwined with Australia’s political and social narrative.
The extent of the devastation was significant, with the fire engulfing the entire front of the building, resulting in soot and smoke damage that marred the Kings Hall ceiling and blackened various interiors. The intensity of the fire and the subsequent water damage left an indelible mark, causing irreparable harm to varnished timber, fabrics, sculptures, and the intricate parquetry floor. This tragic event called for a meticulous and sensitive restoration approach.
A Delicate Balance: Conservation and Restoration
The challenge of the restoration lay in balancing authenticity and heritage conservation. Manteena Security’s approach was defined by careful decision-making to preserve as much of the original structure and materials as possible. This endeavor involved detailed cleaning of diverse materials and replicating damaged items with the correct patina, thereby preserving the stories and history embedded in the building’s fabric.
Specific conservation efforts included the main staircase, display cases, signage, and the iconic doors. While some parts were beyond recovery, every effort was made to retain original elements, taking into account the changes throughout the building’s history. This was a task that required not just technical skill but a deep understanding of the building’s historical context.
Democracy and Engagement: Reopening the Doors of History
The restoration of the Old Parliament House goes beyond physical repairs; it underscores the importance of this landmark in Australian democracy. As a focal point for civic engagement and education, the building’s reopening enables visitors, particularly school children, to connect with Australia’s democratic history. Through these restoration efforts, Manteena Security has helped to ensure that this essential chapter of Australian history remains accessible, allowing future generations to understand and appreciate the value of democracy in our nation.
Manteena Residential has been recognised as one of Australia’s best builders at the Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards, hosted in Perth.
Named as finalists in 5 categories after an incredibly successful ACT MBA Building Excellence Awards in September, Manteena Residential was awarded the National Renovations/ Extensions Award $650K-$1M for the Macgregor St Residence, demonstrating the highest quality build in Australia for this category.
This project saw the Manteena Residential and N1 Creative teams undertake a renovation and extension of an old Deakin Cottage. The extension integrates seamlessly with the works that have been completed in the original part of the home, creating an oasis that makes you completely forget you are in Canberra’s Inner South upon entering the front door. Extension works consisted of the new entry, master suite, kitchen and dining area, outdoor Alfresco area, powder room, butler’s pantry and sunken lounge.
“It’s an absolute honour to be recognised at this level, and a true testament to the work our team produces. I could not be prouder to work with these boys and our incredible team of contractors and consultants every day,” says Manteena Residential Operations Manager, Danny Agnello.
Danny was recognised himself as a finalist in this year’s National Young Builder of the Year category, after a 21 year career at Manteena and being awarded Young Builder of the Year at the MBA ACT Awards in September.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Danny at Manteena for the last 21 years. His journey from Cadet, to ACT Young Builder of the Year is one we are all very proud of,” says Manteena CEO, Mark Bauer.
“We’re very proud of the Residential team and our wider team of subcontractors and consultants. Having delivered 3 award-winning homes, and to be recognised for ACT “House of the Year” at the State Level, and now to receive this recognition on the national stage is a reflection of the teams commitment to quality and excellence.”
This is not the first time Manteena Residential has been recognised on the national stage, after taking out 2021 “Residential Builder of the Year” and “House of the Year” for its Tennyson Crescent Residence, a project that continues to set the standard of quality construction across the ACT and beyond.
Manteena is thrilled to announce a significant accolade within our team – congratulations to Danny Agnello on being named the Master Builders Association ACT “Young Builder of the Year”!
Danny’s journey at Manteena is one of a passion for building, growth and commitment. From his beginnings as a labourer to his current role leading Manteena Residential, Danny’s dedication to the craft of building has been unwavering. His rise is not just a personal success story but a reflection of the strength and talent within our team.
The success of Manteena Residential is a shared achievement, a testament to the combined efforts of our dedicated team. Danny himself acknowledges this collaborative spirit: “This recognition from the MBA is not only a personal milestone but also a tribute to the hard work and commitment of our entire team. A special thank you to Scott Press and Anthony Aloe, and our partners at ARAA and Archertec Interiors. Their contributions have been pivotal to our success, and this award symbolises our joint ambition to continually elevate the standards of the building industry.”
We are extremely proud of Danny’s leadership and the high standards he upholds. His accolade is a deserved one, shining a light on his individual talent and the collective excellence of the Manteena Residential team.
Congratulations, Danny!
We are thrilled to announce that Manteena, in collaboration with Architects Ring & Associates and Archertec Interiors, has been awarded the MBA ACT ‘House of the Year’ for our Deakin project at the 2023 Master Builders ACT and Asset Construction Hire Building Excellence Awards.
This accolade speaks to the devotion, craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail our residential team and building partners poured into this ambitious project.
Unmatched Craftsmanship in Every Corner
A home’s soul lies in its details. Every room, corner and element in the Deakin project whispers a story of unparalleled craftsmanship. The show-stealer was undeniably the handcrafted staircase, which stands as a testament to precision, having been delivered to the millimetre. The process of creating each timber stair tread required on-site templating followed by off-site manufacturing. It is this precision that can be observed throughout every nook and cranny of the house.
From brick corbelling, intricate parapets, elegant wainscoting and detailed cornices & skirting boards; the dedication to preserving master craftsmanship is evidently felt.
Innovation and Global Inspiration
This home wasn’t just built; it was curated. The wrought-iron balustrades, painted to mirror the finish of the aluminium window frames, bring a touch of vintage elegance. In a harmonious blend of local craftsmanship and global aesthetics; chandeliers, pendants and wall lights were handpicked and sourced through the homeowner’s European connections.
Our approach to design was both aesthetic and functional. Flooring direction was meticulously planned to softly separate the rooms, allowing them to seamlessly connect. The consistent high-quality visible throughout the house was achieved through weekly team meetings, specialised workshops and creating prototypes to finalise key details.
Beyond Design: Adaptability in Focus
One of the standout features of this project was the team’s adaptability. The team capitalised on voids identified during the modelling phase. Our innovative team then transformed these spaces into practical storage drawers and introduced a laundry chute to the floor below, optimising every inch of the residence.
A Symphony of Collaboration
This project stands as a symphony of collaboration between Manteena, Architects Ring & Associates, and Archertec Interiors. The outcome? An architectural marvel of finely detailed architecture and bespoke modelling, rendering a house that’s not just a dwelling but a work of art.
https://www.manteena.com.au/project/norman-street-residence-deakin/
We’re incredibly proud to showcase our award-winning custom-built home, valued at over $4m. Nestled in the heart of the historic Red Hill precinct, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to our commitment to design, precision and client vision.
Masterfully designed by Adam Hobill of Adam Hobill Design, the journey began in late 2018 with a humble butter paper sketch. The design brief was clear: to craft a home that exudes traditional elegance while championing connectivity to outdoor spaces, natural light, and ventilation. The site’s generous width paved the way for a symmetrical footprint, with rooms radiating off a central spine to harness natural ventilation and light.
One of the client’s core visions was an outdoor entertainment expanse that flawlessly wove the pool into the entertainment hub. This vision was brought to life impeccably, as the backyard now serves as a sanctuary for sun-soaked summer days and offers a cozy sunken fire pit retreat for winter evenings.
The team’s collaboration with the client began in early 2019. After diligently refining the design and coordination for over 12 months, the groundbreaking moment arrived in June 2020 (just before COVID shutdowns). Fast forward 21 months to May 2022, and the dream was realised—a splendid three-story residence that harmoniously complements its surroundings. As time progresses, the landscaping will further accentuate the home’s beauty, while its bitumen driveways, front fencing, hedges and piers will continue to echo the heritage of the streetscape.
A project of this magnitude owes its success to the dedication and hard work of our exceptional team. A heartfelt acknowledgment to Lewis H, Kaspar C, Anthony A, Scott P, Mitch G, Emma T, Adam P, Nick P, Barrie D, Liam K, Chris P, Jack G, Beth C, Danny A, Angus M, and Frazer B.