Built engaged Slabtec to supply and install Sika’s Carbodur CFRP strengthening system, designed by TTW Canberra, to strengthen several existing beams in the recent upgrades to the Life In Australia Gallery function room.

The project involved significant structural changes and refurbishment, including creating an opening in the existing façade and installing a new external staircase with a glazed facade joining all three levels.

This project is one of the largest gallery conversions undertaken by Built in the ACT, with plans for the upgraded Life In Australia Gallery to reopen to the public in 2021.

The design by TTW involved flexural strengthening with the Sika’s S1214 CFRP laminates on the beam soffits and also shear strengthening using angled S1214 CFRP laminates on the beam sides in a number of critical locations.

We are very proud to be able to be a part of the construction of a building that houses so much of Australia’s important history.