Eldercare Revitalising Retirement Living: A 60sqm Unit Transformation at College Green
1980s to modern transformation
Safe asbestos removal management
Full compliance upgrade
Zero resident disruption
PROJECT College Green Retirement Unit Upgrade
Total Building Cost: $150k
Project Size: 60sqm
Project Type: Retirement Living Renovation
Timeline: Rapid turnaround to minimise vacancy period
Meeting Modern Standards
In the heart of Kent Town, Eldercare’s College Green Retirement Village faced a common challenge in retirement living: updating aging units to meet modern standards and resident expectations. With units dating back to the 1980s, comprehensive renovations are essential when properties become vacant to maintain the village's premium market position.
The Challenge: From Time Capsule to Contemporary Living
PBS faced several key challenges:
- Converting dated 1980s architecture to contemporary living standards
- Managing structural modifications including balcony conversion
- Coordinating asbestos removal in an occupied facility
- Complete services overhaul while maintaining building integrity
- Addressing accessibility requirements including bathroom modifications
PBS's Approach: Technical Excellence in Every Detail
PBS approached the renovation with meticulous attention to detail and strong project coordination.
Structural Innovation
The team tackled complex structural modifications, including converting an existing balcony into a bay window. This required precise coordination of prefabricated structural steel installation and careful construction of surrounding walls to ensure seamless integration.
Technical Excellence
Working with dated infrastructure required careful planning. The team:
- Completely upgraded electrical systems to current standards
- Installed new split system air conditioning
- Replaced all plumbing and fixtures
- Remounted an existing smoke detector to the new ceiling
Quality Finishes
The transformation included:
- New aluminium windows and doors
- Contemporary wet area and kitchen tiling
- Custom joinery throughout
- Complete interior painting
- Specialised accessibility features including bathroom modifications
Safety and Compliance
PBS managed comprehensive asbestos removal with strict containment protocols, ensuring zero risk to nearby residents. All electrical and plumbing works were completed to current code requirements with full compliance certification.
The Results: Modern Living Achieved
The renovation delivered a contemporary living space that meets current market expectations while improving functionality and accessibility. Every element was meticulously executed, from the structural conversion of the balcony to the precise fabrication of floor transitions between spaces.
The transformed unit showcases:
- Modern, light-filled spaces with a new bay window feature
- Fully compliant electrical and plumbing systems
- Contemporary kitchen and bathroom finishes
- Improved accessibility features
- Seamless integration of new services and structures
"The quality of work from our specialist trades was exceptional. From the precision of the linings team to the problem-solving skills of our electricians, every contractor brought their A-game to deliver premium results. The attention to detail in resolving complex challenges, particularly around the structural modifications and services upgrades, really set this project apart."
Greg Phillips, PBS Site Manager
Why It Worked: PBS's Success Formula
PBS's success on this project came down to four key factors:
Technical Precision: Their deep understanding of building services and structural modifications ensured every upgrade met current standards.
Safety Excellence: Meticulous management of asbestos removal and construction safety in an occupied facility.
Quality Control: Careful oversight of all trades ensured premium finishes throughout.
Problem-Solving: Creative solutions for challenges like floor level differences and structural modifications.