arete Australia was engaged as principal contractor in early December 2020 to deliver the Deakin University NA Building refurbishment at the Waurn Ponds Campus. Situated within the Geelong Technology Precinct, Building NA underwent a three-month transformation to create a revitalised workspace for the Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute.
Spanning approximately 1,400sqm across the Ground Floor and Level 1, the project involved complex mechanical upgrades, including major removal and replacement within ceiling voids and roof areas that required careful management of loading and removal activities. The refurbishment provided a fresh fitout tailored to the tenant’s working style, introducing new workspaces, offices, kitchen and breakout zones, and a new airlock and entry that accommodates an inter-floor stair linking the double-height entry area to Level 1.
Throughout the project, arete maintained close collaboration with Deakin University’s internal architectural team and coordinated efforts with client-procured security and AV contractors to achieve a vibrant, cutting-edge office environment in one of the university’s flagship science buildings.
The project reached Practical Completion in March 2021.
