Construction Outlook - Issue 1

CBM PTE LTD | ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN | GALAXY BUILDERS

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OUTLOOK

AURUM GROUP Equipped with purposedriven design and a passion for modern living, Aurum Group is an award-winning space and business innovator with a steadfast focus on the future of people

DYWIDAG’s technologies have been integral to some of the most iconic infrastructure projects in the US. Mike Kelley, President – Americas, details its growth and expansion

ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN | CBM PTE LTD

FG GOLD WESIZWE PLATINUM LIMITED

S C A N D I N AV I A N D A T A C E N T E R S | E C O S E R V I C E

FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

SILVERSTONE

MASTER DRILLING

NATIONAL EWP WALLIS DRILLING

Innovative customdesigned drill rigs

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TRANZIT GROUP

LIFE HEALTHCARE GROUP

Promoting a journey of sustainable growth

A leading private healthcare provider in Southern Africa

NIPPON PAINT Applying a fresh coat

WEST WITS MINING

SWICK MINING SERVICES We revisit mineral drilling contractor Swick Mining Services, whose executive team reflect on the company’s growth story over the past two years

Expert mine management and operations

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MICHIGAN SUGAR COMPANY

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CARAVAN RESOURCES GROUP

In constant pursuit of sustainability

A leader in nextgeneration metallurgy

ADS GROUP

Vital for shaping the future of innovation and security in the UK

AMAK

Saudi Arabia’s largest fully publicly listed mining company

ALU-CAB

SASKTEL The Canadian province’s home-grown communications leader

No stranger to adventurous and market-leading innovation, we catch up with Alu-Cab, whose leadership team updates us on the company’s latest pursuits, customer-centric approach, and continuous expansion efforts over the last two years

Since 1965, Adria Mobil has been inspiring leisure travel adventures with its pioneering, innovative, and high-quality recreational vehicles

DOK-ING Mining is building a future where mining is no longer seen as dangerous or outdated, but as a space of innovation, safety, and high efficiency

Redefining rail freight solutions that connect communities and industries, delivering locally and reaching nationally

Gcwalisa reimagines a future where food security and sustainability are integral to everyday life. Josephine Katumba, Head of Operations, shares her insights

Design management is at the core of Richard Crookes Constructions’ growth and holistic service offering. Samantha Kuiper, General Manager of Design and Innovation, explores

Shahid Hassan, CEO, discusses recent innovations and developments at transformative energy solutions company Energia

Overseeing North America’s first gas-to-liquids facility, Cerilon is in a unique position to enable the continent’s energy transition. We sit down with CEO, Nico Duursema

DAVID TABI, Head of Operations and Business Development, outlines how Barbex serves the growing needs of the Ghanaian mining sector

L E T S H O L AT H E B E

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CBM PTE LTD | ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN | GALAXY BUILDERS

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A leader in specialised chemical supply chain management

FREIGHTER GROUP

Freight it for life

Chart Industries is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of process technologies and equipment for gas and liquid molecule handling

Kalle Conneryd Lundgren, CEO of Kry, Europe’s leading digital healthcare provider, discusses the growing need for an effective digital care model provider, discusses the growing need for an effective digital care model Kalle Conneryd Lundgren, CEO of Kry, Europe’s leading digital healthcare

Rick Cordaro, Vice President of Radar and Sensor Systems at Lockheed Martin, discusses building the next-generation missile defence shield Martin, discusses building the next-generation missile defence shield Rick Cordaro, Vice President of Radar and Sensor Systems at Lockheed

above and beyond to reach the area’s most hard-to-access regions province of Papua New Guinea, the Enga Provincial Health Authority goes Equipped to deliver high-quality healthcare throughout the Enga

gas and liquid molecule handling and manufacturing of process technologies and equipment for Chart Industries is a global leader in the design, engineering,

MICHIGAN SUGAR COMPANY

Neil Juhnke, President and CEO, outlines the growerowned cooperative’s latest developments, new facilities, and ongoing commitment to sustainability

Heroes Vodka is the ‘Official Spirit of a Grateful Nation’. Trisha Cancilla, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Strategy at R.S. Lipman Company, tells the full story

DYWIDAG’s technologies have been integral to some of the most iconic infrastructure projects in the US. Mike Kelley, President – Americas, details its growth and expansion

company’s advanced technological support for a multitude of freight forwarders JONATHAN PHILLIPS, CEO of Newage Software & Solutions, delves into the

of Marketing and Brand Strategy at R.S. Lipman Company, tells the full story Heroes Vodka is the ‘Official Spirit of a Grateful Nation’. Trisha Cancilla, Vice President

projects in the US. Mike Kelley, President – Americas, details its growth and expansion DYWIDAG’s technologies have been integral to some of the most iconic infrastructure

sustainability and ongoing commitment to developments, new facilities, owned cooperative’s latest CEO, outlines the growerNeil Juhnke, President and

TELL US YOUR STORY, AND WE’LL TELL THE WORLD Freight it for life

GROUP FREIGHTER

DEFENSE, INC. GLOBAL ARMSCOR

healthcare offering Reshaping Namibia’s

management supply chain specialised chemical A leader in

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CARE NAMIBIA MEDICAL

COMPANY SUGAR MICHIGAN

focus on the future of people innovator with a steadfast space and business Group is an award-winning for modern living, Aurum driven design and a passion Equipped with purpose-

the industry plays a crucial role in the future of serves as a national voice and and national trade, Ports Australia efficient gateways to international ports to be sustainable and Working to support Australian

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GROUP AURUM

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flavours of success Unpeeling the

RINCHEM

SAFRESCO

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largest tea producer The Caribbean’s

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cardiovascular care At the heart of

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OUTLOOK

TEAS LTD JAMAICAN

INSTITUTE UGANDA HEART

Africa Outlook, APAC Outlook, EME Outlook, North America Outlook, Mining Outlook, Healthcare Outlook, Manufacturing Outlook, Supply Chain Outlook, Food & Beverage Outlook, and Construction Outlook are digital publications aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers, reaching an audience of more than 800,000 people around the world.

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Equipped with purposedriven design and a passion for modern living, Aurum Group is an award-winning space and business innovator with a steadfast focus on the future of people

JONATHAN PHILLIPS, CEO of Newage Software & Solutions, delves into the company’s advanced technological support for a multitude of freight forwarders

LTD MARINE PTE OFFSHORE VALLIANZ

L E T S H O L AT H E B E

AURUM GROUP

Issue 6

Working to support Australian ports to be sustainable and efficient gateways to international and national trade, Ports Australia serves as a national voice and plays a crucial role in the future of the industry

vertical integration distinguished of vessels and A diverse fleet

in precision firearms A long-standing leader

OUTLOOK

Unpeeling the flavours of success www.foodbeverage-outlook.com

A diverse fleet of vessels and distinguished vertical integration

Equipped to deliver high-quality healthcare throughout the Enga province of Papua New Guinea, the Enga Provincial Health Authority goes above and beyond to reach the area’s most hard-to-access regions

WWW. C O N ST R UC T I O N -O UT L O O K. C O M • I SSUE 1

SAFRESCO

RINCHEM

VALLIANZ OFFSHORE MARINE PTE LTD

Enga Provincial Health Authority

T H E F O R K

The Caribbean’s largest tea producer

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A long-standing leader in precision firearms

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JAMAICAN TEAS LTD

ARMSCOR GLOBAL DEFENSE, INC.

Health Authority Enga Provincial

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NAMIBIA MEDICAL CARE Reshaping Namibia’s healthcare offering

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UGANDA HEART INSTITUTE At the heart of cardiovascular care

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CBM PTE LTD | ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN | GALAXY BUILDERS

With original and exclusive content compiled by our experienced editorial team, we look to promote the latest in engaging news, industry trends, and success stories from across the globe.

Your company can join the leading industry heavyweights enjoying the free exposure we provide across our platforms with a free marketing brochure, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and help you grow your business.

Visit www.outpb.com/work-with-us for details on how your company can feature for free in one of our upcoming editions.

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WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

NEW FOUNDATIONS

EDITORIAL Head of Editorial: Jack Salter jack.salter@outpb.com

It is my pleasure to introduce you to our inaugural issue

Deputy Head of Editorial: Lucy Pilgrim lucy.pilgrim@outpb.com

of Construction Outlook – the new multi-channel brand

Senior Editor: Lily Sawyer lily.sawyer@outpb.com

launched by Outlook Publishing, bringing you the very latest developments from the construction industry.

Editor: Ed Budds ed.budds@outpb.com

The modern luxury and timeless elegance of Anagram

Editor: Rachel Carr rachel.carr@outpb.com Copy Editor: Lauren Kania lauren.kania@outpb.com PRODUCTION Art Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outpb.com Senior Designer: Devon Collins devon.collins@outpb.com Designer: Louisa Martin louisa.martin@outpb.com Production Manager: Alex James alex.james@outpb.com Digital Marketing Director: Fox Tucker fox.tucker@outpb.com Website Content Manager: Oliver Shrouder oliver.shrouder@outpb.com Social Media Executive: Jake Crickmore jake.crickmore@outpb.com BUSINESS CEO: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outpb.com Managing Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outpb.com Chief Technology Officer: Nick Norris nick.norris@outpb.com A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outpb.com Finance Assistant: Victoria McAllister victoria.mcallister@outpb.com C O N TA C T Construction Outlook Norvic House, 29-33 Chapelfield Road Norwich, NR2 1RP, United Kingdom Sales: +44 (0) 1603 804 445 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 804 431 SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0) 1603 804 431 jack.salter@outpb.com www.construction-outlook.com Follow us on Linkedin: @constructionoutlook

Homes (Anagram), a prestigious collection of properties located at the highly sought-after Kheam Hock Road in Singapore, graces our debut front cover.

Anagram Homes stands as a prestigious project by award-winning boutique property developer, Aurum Land – a core brand of Aurum Group and whollyowned subsidiary of Woh Hup Group.

Leveraging the latter’s deep expertise in construction and engineering, Aurum Land brings a design-led and human-centric approach to property development.

“A key feature of Anagram is its monolithic language; defined by a series of fenestrations, the development’s otherwise solid exterior is fragmented by little pockets of green, drawing nature into each home,” outlines CEO, Michelle Yong.

“With a reputation for thoughtful architecture, lifestyle-oriented design, and exceptional quality, Aurum land has consistently delivered homes that blend form and function.”

Form and function also combine at award-winning structural and façade engineering firm, Eckersley O’Callaghan (EOC).

EOC is unique as it specialises in both structures and façades, which shines through in architectural projects where both are integrated.

“Our dual expertise not only keeps material costs down for the client but contributes to the overall sustainability of each project. We’re focused on creating value from efficiency,” Yanchee Lau, Director – Hong Kong, points out.

In Texas, Galaxy Builders (Galaxy) is a leading general contracting firm whose out-of-this-world projects are built all over the Lone Star State.

The company is currently bidding and pricing more contracts than ever before, with a robust pipeline of projects and steadfast belief that the future is bright for both Galaxy and Texas.

“Galaxy remains as excited as ever to be in the multifamily construction space,” shines Alan Gonzales, Executive Director of Business Development.

The foundations of this first edition also include CBM Pte Ltd, Sanfield (Management) Limited, L&L Companies, and many others from across the construction industry.

We hope that you enjoy the first of many issues to come.

Jack Salter Head of Editorial, Outlook Publishing Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 3

CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK CONTENTS

FEATURES

68 Sanfield (Management) Limited Building Homes with Heart

01 CONTENTS REGULARS

ASIA PACIFIC

28 Aurum Group Bespoke Luxury for Living Well Focusing on the future of people

Developing Hong Kong’s future-ready construction ecosystem

78 Raubex Construction Australia Constructing Lasting Connections Building relationships and trust

6 NEWS Around the construction sector in seven stories

8 EXPERT EYE Why castors matter in strengthening global supply chains

BUS INE SS INSIGHTS

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10 Expert Design Management

42 Eckersley O’Callaghan

Delivering excellence, managing risk, and adding value across complex builds

Truly integrating engineering and architecture

N O R TH A M E R I C A

16 Integral to Iconic Infrastructure

54 CBM Pte Ltd

Out-of-this-World Projects

The growth and expansion of DYWIDAG’s US operations

TO PICA L FOCUS

20 Redefining Architectural Possibilities Building foundations to empower education

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Where Form and Function Combine

Frontrunners in Singaporean Facilities Management Adopting a sustainable, innovative, and customer-centric approach

88 Galaxy Builders Building thriving places through trusting relationships

96 L&L Companies Built on Grit. Defined by Legacy.

Driven by Vision.

Upholding people, principles, and performance

CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK CONTENTS

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128 GIBB

E U R O P E & MI DD L E E AST

Complex Projects in a Complex Environment

144 Tesmec Group

Understanding the challenges and opportunities in South Africa

Embedded in Virtuosity Supporting strategic energy infrastructure projects

138 Rawson Developers Building Homes, Designing Lifestyles

106 MBA Energy & Industrial Executing a Bold Construction Vision

Residential developments in and around Cape Town

138

Elite service, no matter the project

AF R IC A

144

114 Denya Developers A Design Vision – From Concept to Creation Exceeding expectations in real estate

120 Mike Buyskes Construction With Passion from Pretoria From luxury lodges to commercial and retail spaces

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Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 5

NEWS

Around the construction sector in seven stories…

EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

A NEW ERA OF DUBAI LUXURY LIVING

A S I A PAC I F I C

HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY UNDERGOES MAJOR REBRAND HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY (HCM) has announced it will be rebranding as LANDCROSS, effective from April 2027.

The new name reflects the company’s propensity for more innovative solutions across its global footprint in the construction and mining sectors, particularly in the context of an industry-wide shift towards smarter and more

sustainable operations.

The Japan-based business strives to go beyond machinery, empowering its customers with intelligent, connected, and more eco-friendly solutions.

The name LANDCROSS in particular represents a partnership philosophy for HCM, opening its doors to technology leaders and building a trusted dealer network.

EMIRATES DEVELOPMENTS, IN partnership with Hilton, has announced the launch of Hilton Residences, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), a residential development project that integrates expertise in hospitality, innovative design, and community environment to redefine luxury living in Dubai.

The 38-floor residential tower, situated between Sheikh Zayed Road and Jumeriah Lake, will comprise a vertical structure of glass and light, blending urban sophistication and Dubai decadence for visionary professionals and investors.

The project marks a new benchmark for premium living as it perfectly demonstrates Emirates Developments’ commitment to creating iconic residential projects that shape the future of urban life in the United Arab Emirates.

EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

EUROPE’S MOST EXPENSIVE CONSTRUCTION CITIES UNVEILED A RECENT REPORT has found that both Zurich and Geneva are the most expensive cities in Europe for construction projects, closely followed by London.

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The ‘Data Centre Construction Cost Index 2025-2026’ from global project management and consultancy firm, Turner & Townsend, also indicated that rising costs across Europe are driven by mounting pressures from labour shortages and major supply and demand delays, particularly as sectors such as data centres continue to surge.

According to the index, Switzerland’s construction costs

continue to be comparatively high, with an average cost to build of €4,978 per square metre (sqm).

AFRICA

A S I A PAC I F I C

SOUTH AFRICA’S CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT SHRINKS DUE TO MYRIAD factors, including rising construction costs, declining private investment, and limited growth in the country’s residential sector, South Africa’s (SA) construction industry is expected to shrink by two percent by the end of the year.

Recent findings from Statistics South Africa indicate that the average construction materials price index had very limited year-on-year growth in the first half of 2025 at just 0.7

EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

£60 MILLION NEIGHBOURHOOD IN THE WORKS PLANS HAVE RECENTLY been unveiled to build a £60 million housing development on redundant scrubland just outside Sheffield city centre.

Social-impact property developer Capital&Centric is at the helm of the project, facilitating 192 comfortable

Sheffield

SUSTAINABLE ROOF TILES FOR THE WIN

percent, whilst the value of residential building plans passed in SA during the same period fell by 8.4 percent.

International matters have also been a contributing factor, as recent US tariffs had a major effect on key global supply chains, leading to a serious deficit in construction materials.

and modern rental homes alongside multiple communal spaces including shared lounges, a courtyard, and a rooftop terrace.

Named the Fitzwilliam, the development aims to create a sense of community, combining homely apartments with picturesque greenery.

The apartment block’s surrounding streets will also be complemented by street lighting, benches, planted trees, and public art celebrating Sheffield’s industrial past.

A RECENT COLLABORATION between RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia and Bristle Roofing has seen the development of sustainable roof tiles using coal ash and recycled glass, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 13 percent compared to traditional concrete tiles.

The partnership between Australia’s largest tertiary institution and one of the country’s largest manufacturers and installers of concrete and terracotta roof tiles has brought innovative industrial waste management solutions to the fore.

Indeed, both entities utilise materials – that would otherwise end up in landfill – in a way that meets the nation’s waste management requirements, whilst also forging a pioneering approach in the Australian roofing sector.

NORTH AMERICA

INDUSTRY LEADERS RECOGNISED BY CSI TWO MAJOR INDUSTRY leaders from Construction Specifications Canada (CSC) – a non-profit membership organisation improving the standards of construction documentation across the country – were recently honoured by the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) at its national conference in Cleveland, Ohio.

Nick Franjic, Executive Director, and Russell Snow, former President of CSC, both received awards for their contributions to the industry.

Franjic, who has led CSC from strength to strength over the last three decades, was named as an Honorary Member of CSI, the institute’s most prestigious recognition.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 7

Rolling Responsibly With the construction industry feeling the impact of supply chain disruption, Colin Barton, Director of UK-based castor and wheel specialist, Coldene Castors, explores castors’ crucial role in strengthening global supply chains and how the cruciality of mobility components should not be overlooked Writer: Colin Barton, Director, Coldene Castors

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hen people discuss global supply chains, the conversation often focuses on complex digital systems, trade routes, and geopolitical risk.

What rarely enters the discussion are the components that quietly make the entire system move – literally!

Castors and wheels may not grab headlines, but they are critical to the safe, efficient, and agile movement of 8 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

materials on construction sites and throughout logistics networks.

In sectors where mobility is everything, their role in strengthening supply chain resilience is far greater than most give credit for.

SUPPLY CHAINS UNDER PRESSURE In recent years, the construction industry has felt the impact of supply

chain disruptions like no other.

Global shipping delays, rising material costs and pressure on skilled labour have forced businesses to rethink how they operate.

Businesses are placing greater emphasis on productivity, flexibility, and resilience, from the sourcing of raw materials to the movement of finished components on-site.

One of the most significant operational challenges in this environment is material handling.

Construction sites depend on equipment, components, and structures being moved efficiently, safely, and often at short notice – if this doesn’t happen, projects can stall, costs can rise, and deadlines can slip.

These everyday but essential movements are where castors, wheels, and other mobility solutions can play a pivotal role.

EXPERT EYE CONSTRUCTION

THE MOBILITY LINK IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN Material handling isn’t just about forklifts, cranes, or automated systems; a huge proportion of site logistics depends on trolleys, racks, platforms, and moveable units which rely on castors and wheels to transport loads safely and quickly.

The reliability of this equipment directly affects productivity. Castor failure may sound trivial, but when a mobile work platform or a modular component cannot be moved, it can disrupt entire workflows.

In fast-paced construction and manufacturing environments, those delays can quickly add up.

Robust, well-designed mobility components help ensure that materials flow smoothly through the supply chain, right to the point of use on site.

RESILIENCE THROUGH DESIGN AND SPECIFICATION The construction industry has undergone shifts towards modular building, just-in-time delivery, and on-site assembly.

These methods increase reliance on equipment that can be repositioned quickly and safely; this is where ergonomics, weightbearing capacity, and smart design all become critical.

Choosing the right castors and wheels is more than a simple technical exercise; it’s a strategic one.

Factors such as ground surface, load type, turning radius, braking systems, and resistance to debris all determine how equipment performs under pressure.

In a global supply chain that needs speed and reliability, just one poorly specified component can create unnecessary friction.

SUSTAINABILITY AND LIFECYCLE Sustainability is increasingly driving supply chain resilience. Frequently

failing components contribute to wasted materials, downtime, and a higher carbon footprint.

In contrast, durable, serviceable, and repairable components help extend equipment lifespan and reduce the need for replacements.

This has become particularly relevant as the industry moves towards circularity, with more organisations embedding lifecycle thinking into their procurement.

Castors and wheels are a prime example of where attention to durability and maintenance can have a measurable impact on cost and environmental performance.

LOCALISATION AND AGILITY Another trend shaping construction supply chains is localisation.

In response to Brexit, COVID-19 pandemic-related disruption, and geopolitical uncertainty, many UK-based businesses have sought to shorten their supply chains to improve reliability and reduce lead times.

This has offered new opportunities to consider how components are sourced and specified.

Partnering with local engineering and manufacturing firms helps ensure mobility components meet the real demands of specific sites and sectors.

Beyond the speed of delivery, it enables better quality control and closer collaboration amongst designers, engineers, and end users.

Equipment that rolls smoothly, absorbs vibration, and requires less force to move reduces physical strain and lowers the risk of musculoskeletal injury.

Sound design here translates directly into healthier, more productive workplaces.

A QUIET CORNERSTONE OF SUPPLY CHAIN STRENGTH Global logistics strategies, digital platforms, and significant infrastructure investments often dominate the headlines.

Still, much of a supply chain’s real resilience lies in the small, overlooked components that keep it physically moving.

The performance of mobility components affects everything, from productivity and ergonomics to sustainability and site safety.

In an industry where margins are tight and pressure to deliver is high, paying closer attention to these often-overlooked details can be the difference between an operation that creaks under pressure and one that rolls smoothly forwards.

ABOUT THE EXPERT Colin Barton is Director of Coldene Castors, a UK-based manufacturer of bespoke castors, wheels, and polyurethane components.

TRAINING AND ERGONOMICS A final but often underestimated factor here is ergonomics. Poorly matched mobility solutions can easily lead to worker fatigue and injury, undermining productivity and creating safety risks.

Incorporating ergonomics into design and training ensures that equipment moves efficiently and safely.

Construction workers spend long hours handling materials, often in challenging environments.

With over two decades of industry experience, Barton works closely with construction, logistics, and manufacturing clients to enhance mobility, safety, and operational resilience through practical engineering solutions. coldene.com

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 9

RICHARD CROOKES CONSTRUCTIONS ASIA PACIFIC

EXPERT DESIGN MANAGEMENT

Design management is at the core of Richard Crookes Constructions’ growth and holistic service offering. We explore why this capability is critical to delivering excellence, managing risk, and adding value across complex builds with Samantha Kuiper, General Manager of Design and Innovation Writer: Jack Salter 10 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

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esign management is not only expected by clients but also necessitated by the complexity and volume of documentation now required on projects.

Without robust design documentation, builders carry increased risk – making expert design management essential.

Bridging the gap between design

© ARTHUR VAY PHOTOGRAPHY

and construction is therefore crucial.

Samantha Kuiper, General Manager of Design and Innovation at Richard Crookes Constructions (RCC), has been instrumental in achieving this synergy.

Samantha’s career initially unfolded in the world of architecture, where her passion for design and project management flourished.

Since then, her career has been defined by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a steadfast commitment to advancing design management within the construction industry.

Samantha’s move to RCC in 2019 presented an opportunity for her to further advance design management practices.

“We are committed to design management excellence, with one of the largest in-house design management teams in Australia,” she acclaims.

DESIGN MANAGEMENT SERVICE A consistent experience through the adoption of RCC’s tailored processes Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 11

RICHARD CROOKES CONSTRUCTIONS ASIA PACIFIC

– led by Samantha with the support of a Design Process and Compliance Lead – is critical to the company’s design management service offering and key to the procurement of quality documentation.

To address inconsistency of design management services across projects, RCC’s Design Management Standards (DMS) were produced – a comprehensive handbook covering all elements of market-leading design management.

This document is critical given the complexity and evolving standards of the construction industry in Australia, ensuring both compliance and quality construction.

The DMS guides internal stakeholders with design

management responsibility through the full project lifecycle, including planning, contracts, and processes.

A collaborative approach and problem-solving mindset are also vital to RCC’s design management, as is the ability to challenge designs to mitigate risk and optimise outcomes.

“Challenging designs and encouraging an innovative mindset that can add value to the project for both RCC and our clients is a core part of our service offering. Innovation is central to our approach, and we continue to look for opportunities,” Samantha tells us.

Moreover, RCC drives design outcomes whilst considering other elements that might impact successful project delivery such as

“WITH A DIVERSE RANGE OF B AC KG R O U N D S , O U R I N - H O U S E E X P E R TS L E V E R AG E T H E I R S P E C I F I C E X P E R T I S E TO TA C K L E C O M P L E X D E S I G N C H A L L E N G E S AC R OSS A L L D I S C I P L I N E S ” – S A M A N T H A K U I P E R , G E N E R A L M A N A G E R O F D E S I G N A N D I N N O VAT I O N , RICHARD CROOKES CONSTRUCTIONS

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cost, time, and compliance.

ELEVATED BY CULTURE Fundamental to RCC’s design management service offering are a collaborative culture and respectful interactions with the company’s extended delivery team, including consultants, clients, and subcontractors.

“Our ecosystem enjoys working with us, leading to a very productive environment and high levels of repeat engagement,” Samantha notes.

The industry is also shifting, with successful outcomes achieved through support and collaboration.

“If we want to get the best out of our people and delivery partners, it’s important to build relationships and

RICHARD CROOKES CONSTRUCTIONS ASIA PACIFIC

© BRYN DONKERSLOOT

respect between businesses,” she acknowledges.

At RCC, a culture of design excellence and optimisation sets the tone from project inception to completion.

“With a diverse range of backgrounds, our in-house experts leverage their specific expertise to tackle complex design challenges across all disciplines,” Samantha states.

This culture is widely recognised and respected, setting the company apart and helping it to attract and retain top talent.

Rather than outsourcing, RCC is focused on building an internal capability that futureproofs the business and enables retention due to visability of career pathways and opportunities.

STANDOUT DESIGNS The restoration of Sirius Building (Sirius) into 75 modern apartments

in The Rocks represents significant adaptive reuse.

A story of survival and adaption, Sirius is one of many Australian buildings to benefit from being redeveloped rather than knocked down and rebuilt.

The skilful regeneration of this landmark building marks an exciting new era for Sirius, which now stands as a beacon for enduring architecture and ambitious retrofit projects in Australia.

Each apartment is a masterpiece, offering panoramic views, bespoke finishes, and an atmosphere of refined elegance.

Designed by BVN, Sirius was brought to life by the design management expertise and construction capability of RCC and demonstrates its commitment to delivering future-focused infrastructure.

The building includes a revitalised common area, which retains original

RCC – AT A GLANCE • AUD$1.6 billion turnover • Operational throughout New South Wales, Queensland, and the Australian Capital Territory • 800+ employees • 60 percent repeat clients • 100 percent familyowned and managed • 49 years in business

features such as timber batten walls and bison artworks.

Innovative engineering solutions preserved the historic façade at Sirius, including prefabricated steel structures and imported copper to retain the original brutalist expression.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 13

Digital engineering, including sophisticated visualisations, building information modelling (BIM), and augmented reality, supported all stages of delivery, whilst vertical transport challenges created by the five interconnected buildings were solved by designing lift cores in the building’s ‘spine.’

Custom springs and shock absorbers were also incorporated to manage load bearing and vibration challenges related to the seven private terrace pools.

Another award-winning RCC development, Kurraba Residences (Kurraba), is located on Sydney’s Lower North Shore and has two standout design features.

“Kurraba’s façade utilises a slip brick cladding system, with corrosionresistant materials built for longevity in its harbourside setting,” Samantha insights.

“The curved sliding doors and windows are also designed to meet extremely high water penetration.”

14 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

“ O U R T E A M I S A C T I V E LY P U S H I N G T H E B O U N D A R I E S O F FA Ç A D E D E S I G N A N D ENGINEERING” – SA M A N T H A KU I P E R , G E N E R A L M A N AG E R O F D E S I G N A N D I N N O VAT I O N , R I C H A R D C R O O K E S C O N S T R U C T I O N S

RCC worked closely with consultants and subcontractor partners to ensure the suitability of all materials, systems, and finishes at Kurraba, given its close proximity to the harbour.

IN-HOUSE EXPERTISE RCC has several in-house design experts involved in the delivery of projects like Sirius and Kurraba – including experts in façades, structure services, and digital design.

As the design space has become extremely complex, experienced and knowledgeable subject matter experts are needed to interrogate designs and come up with efficiencies and opportunities.

RCC has an all-encompassing offering in this space with experts that focus on mitigating risk and maximising value opportunities in their niche.

“A façade manager bridges technical and stakeholder needs, reinforcing the role of design management in delivering clarity, alignment, and high standards across all parties,” Samantha outlines.

“Our team is actively pushing the boundaries of façade design and engineering,” she highlights.

This adds value and bolsters RCC’s service offering by developing innovative and efficient procedures that elevate safety and quality standards, whilst minimising risk, to

RICHARD CROOKES CONSTRUCTIONS ASIA PACIFIC

meet the demands of increasingly complex buildings.

The use of digital tracking tools, meanwhile, enables real-time visibility of production and delivery and transparency around the end-to-end supply chain journey, from procurement, production, and manufacturing to delivery and installation.

ENGINEERING EXPERTISE Structural engineering is another critical component of design management that often accounts for 20 to 40 percent of the build cost and is central to the construction timeline.

RCC’s in-house structural engineering experts ensure consistency and quality by applying best-practice solutions across projects.

Lessons learnt on one project are rapidly applied to others, helping to mitigate risks and improve design outcomes in real time.

“Due to its complexity and scale, structural engineering requires a deep understanding of both design and construction,” shares Samantha.

“RCC’s delivery capability is strengthened through expert in-house engineering oversight and continuous improvement.”

As part of skillset transfer, RCC provides hands-on mentoring to site engineers and design managers,

encouraging them to challenge assumptions and ask the right questions.

The opportunity to upskill its workforce ensures everyone can review documents and mitigate risk whilst developing their expertise.

This grows the company’s capability and futureproofs RCC by transferring skills from the older generation, who have the building experience, to the younger, techsavvy generation.

“RCC’s design management specialists play a key role upskilling the next generation – ensuring technical literacy is paired with deep construction understanding,” Samantha emphasises.

EVOLVING SPACE RCC sees the design management space evolving with the greater integration of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into design processes.

There is unprecedented opportunity to create more efficiency and certainty as teams leverage technology to obtain higher quality documentation.

“I expect data will support faster, more accurate decision-making that is based on evidence. As a result of extensive data collation, RCC will be better equipped to assess the best design decisions with a higher level of

certainty,” Samantha closes.

Industry readiness with technology is one of two challenges the company foresees. With a team of experts eager to evolve, learn, and grow – paired with the organisation’s innovative and progressive mindset – RCC is well placed to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of Australia’s evolving construction industry.

The burden of compliance is the other notable challenge; increased regulation and industry complexity, with more risk passed to the builder, increases administration.

To mitigate this, a focus on strong design management is becoming increasingly more important.

Design management is a necessary part of both RCC’s service offering, and the wider industry. Given Samantha’s involvement, oversight and leadership, RCC is well placed to navigate these challenges into the future.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 15

INTEGRAL TO ICONIC INFRASTRUCTURE DYWIDAG’s technologies have been integral to some of the most iconic infrastructure projects in the US. Mike Kelley, President – Americas, details the growth and expansion of its US operations with the opening of a new facility in Pottstown, Pennsylvania Writer: Jack Salter

F

ounded in Germany in 1865, DYWIDAG has been a global leader in structural and geotechnical engineering solutions for 160 years.

This leadership comes from a combination of long-term engineering experience, proprietary product technology, and an 16 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

integrated approach that combines high-performance hardware with instrumentation and monitoring.

That mix of deep R&D with product standards compliance, global project experience on landmark structures, and local manufacturing and technical support allows DYWIDAG to deliver solutions that reduce construction

time, improve durability, and enable data-driven lifecycle management of assets.

“We’re proud to be a leader in the geotechnical sector, focusing on understanding and engineering the ground beneath our feet to support safe and lasting infrastructure,” highlights Mike Kelley, President – Americas.

DYWIDAG NORTH AMERICA

“Our expertise lies in soil stabilization, ground reinforcement, advanced anchoring solutions, and post-tensioning products and services that allow bridges and tunnels to withstand complex geological conditions.”

The company manufactures and supplies post-tensioning and pre-stressing systems, including DYWIDAG Threadbars, stay cable systems, concrete accessories, and a broad range of geotechnical products such as ground anchors, soil nails, and reinforcing steel for micropiles.

DYWIDAG also provides monitoring/data-driven asset management solutions and corrosion protection technologies.

By combining sensor-integrated and/or robotic technology and decades of global experience, DYWIDAG’s solutions deliver reliability, durability, and peace of mind for engineers and construction teams.

“We serve public agencies, asset owners, design-build contractors, and large private developers on major infrastructure and vertical building projects,” Kelley tells us.

ICONIC PROJECTS DYWIDAG operates in 50+ countries and employs over 1,600 people worldwide.

In the US, the company’s technologies have been integral to some of the country’s most iconic infrastructure projects.

Indeed, it has supplied anchoring and soil nailing systems for Apple’s headquarters in California and multistrand anchors for excavation support used on One World Trade Center in New York, which is the tallest building in the US. These installations illustrate DYWIDAG’s role on technically demanding, high-specification projects where durability, precision, and regulatory compliance are essential.

“At One World Trade Center, our high-quality, multi-strand anchors were used in the foundation works early in construction, demonstrating our capability to deliver reliable deep foundation solutions in highly constrained urban environments,” outlines Kelley.

“These installations illustrate our role on technically demanding, high-specification projects where

durability, precision, and regulatory compliance are essential,” outlines Kelley.

DYWIDAG is also an active supplier and technical partner on the Gordie Howe International Bridge project, which is currently under construction between Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, Michigan.

The company provided mutistrand stay cables to support the composite deck and specialized technical assistance throughout construction.

It also recently deployed a remote-controlled inspection bot which performs visual inspections of the protective sheathing for the bridge’s stay cables. In addition, the stay cable system provided has the capability to utilize a de-icing system.

“This is one of the company’s largest and most technically advanced North American bridge involvements,” Kelley acclaims.

DYWIDAG also provided geotechnical and post-tensioning expertise for the Golden Gate Bridge seismic retrofit to help strengthen the structure and meet modern earthquake resilience standards.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 17

POTTSTOWN FACILITY The DYWIDAG Threadbar stands apart as one of the only pre-stressing steel bar systems manufactured in the US that fully meets ASTM A722 manufacturing and performance standards.

These higher-capacity bars allow engineers and contractors to reduce steel congestion, accelerate concrete placement, and achieve stronger, more efficient structures.

“This gives us a distinct competitive 18 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

edge on projects where performance, quality, low-relaxation steel and constructability matter most,” Kelley prides.

DYWIDAG recently opened a production and distribution facility in Pottstown, Pennsylvania – located in the former Bethlehem Steel complex – to manufacture DYWIDAG Threadbar systems locally for the Northeast US market and to strengthen regional inventory and stockholding.

This results in shorter lead times for post-tensioning and anchoring hardware, increased availability of larger-capacity reinforcement bars for support of building foundations, reduced shipping complexity, and faster delivery for large-scale projects while contributing to local economic revitalization.

Local production also reduces

“WE’RE PROUD TO B E A LEADER IN THE G E OT E C H N I C A L S E C TO R , FOCUSING ON U N D E R S TA N D I N G AND ENGINEERING THE GROUND B E N E AT H O U R F E E T TO SUPPORT SAFE AND LASTING INFRASTRUCTURE” – M I K E K E L L E Y, P R E S I D E N T – A M E R I C A S , DY W I DAG

logistics friction for contractors, helps avoid supply bottlenecks on large programs, and lets DYWIDAG offer quicker specification support and on-site technical assistance.

“The Pottstown facility is focused on geotechnical aspects of the business. Geotechnical applications are critical for soil stabilization, ground reinforcement, and foundation anchoring, and enable engineers to tackle challenging ground conditions,” notes Kelley.

DYWIDAG NORTH AMERICA

Importantly, this new site also positions DYWIDAG close to major infrastructure hubs in the Northeast US, such as Philadelphia and New York, and builds on the region’s industrial legacy.

DYWIDAG’s growth in the Northeast US is further strengthened by the addition of three exceptional professionals – Maureen Merson, Rey Clavel, and Steve Scott – who bring decades of technical, engineering, and project management expertise.

“Their leadership ensures clients across the region receive the highest level of support and responsiveness,” Kelley emphasizes.

In the Southeast US, meanwhile, DYWIDAG recently announced the expansion of its concrete repair and strengthening services.

The expansion strengthens its ability to deliver general concrete repair, post-tension repair, posttension modifications, and carbon fiber installation in the region.

“To support this initiative, we’ve appointed Christopher Burnett as Sales Manager, based in Orlando, Florida,” reveals Kelley.

SAFER, SMARTER, AND MORE SUSTAINABLE Looking ahead to 2026, DYWIDAG is advancing an ambitious growth strategy in North America built around four key priorities.

First, the company is scaling its US manufacturing and inventory, with a focus on ramping up DYWIDAG Threadbar production and maintaining robust regional stock to meet accelerating demand.

DYWIDAG is also enhancing regional project support – leveraging shorter lead times, localized production, and the expertise of its expanding Northeast team to deliver unmatched responsiveness to customers.

The company’s monitoring services will also be expanded, integrating smart anchor technologies to enable predictive maintenance and create more resilient infrastructure.

“Finally, we are deepening our involvement in major infrastructure programs, from bridges and seismic retrofits to commercial foundations and cross-border projects, where DYWIDAG’s solutions will set new

standards for performance and reliability,” Kelley confirms.

These priorities are vital to DYWIDAG sustaining its position as a trusted partner in building the next generation of safer, smarter, and more sustainable infrastructure across North America.

Alongside its four key priorities, the company remains deeply focused on sustainability and lifecycle management.

Through advanced corrosion protection and data-driven monitoring solutions, DYWIDAG helps infrastructure owners extend asset life, lower maintenance costs, and improve resilience.

“It’s this combination of technology, expertise, and long-term vision that continues to set DYWIDAG apart in the infrastructure market,” closes Kelley.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 19

REDEFINING ARCHITECTURAL POSSIBILITIES In South Africa, early childhood development centres are harnessing innovative, sustainable construction methods to create brighter futures and cultivate equitable environments for generations. We explore how Natural Building Collective weaves the threads of community and sustainability together Writer: Rachel Carr

20 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

I

n the vibrant tapestry of South Africa (SA), early childhood development (ECD) centres play a crucial role in nurturing childhood advancement, particularly in underserved communities.

Establishing the groundwork for lifelong learning, these centres emphasise physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development to enhance access to quality education.

Additionally, they promote

TOPICAL FOCUS NATURAL BUILDING COLLECTIVE

methods which emphasise the use of natural materials and environmentally sound techniques.

These often include tyres, cob – which consists of sand, clay, and straw – and ecobricks, ingeniously crafted from plastic bottles densely packed with clean non-recyclable plastic waste, all aiming to reduce reliance on conventional, non-renewable resources.

Constructing buildings from such materials is an innovative approach to sustainable architecture, leveraging waste materials to create durable, ecofriendly structures.

Typically focusing on education and community engagement, Natural Building Collective offers workshops, training sessions, and resources for individuals interested in their own

projects. It aims to raise awareness about the benefits of natural buildings, such as improved indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and a smaller ecological footprint.

By fostering a community of like-minded individuals and professionals, Natural Building Collective encourages collaboration and innovation in the construction industry, ultimately striving to create healthier living environments that harmonise with nature.

ECO-FRIENDLY EDUCATION The lack of access to ECD centres in areas like Cape Town, particularly in communities such as Heideveld, not only disadvantages children in their educational journey but also contributes to long-term societal issues.

© RIAAN WEST

parental involvement through skills enrichment workshops and support educators with training programmes to create effective learning environments.

This prepares children for future educational success and fosters healthier communities through a holistic approach that combines early learning, nutrition, health, and emotional well-being, embracing play-based curricula to develop essential skills such as language and problem-solving.

Amidst the education sector’s funding and structural challenges, Natural Building Collective and its partners are actively facilitating the construction of ECD centres and redefining architectural possibilities.

It is dedicated to promoting and practising sustainable building

© RIAAN WEST

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 21

TOPICAL FOCUS NATURAL BUILDING COLLECTIVE

To break this cycle, the construction of a new Montessori ECD centre by Natural Building Collective is taking shape. Built in collaboration with Greater Commission United and Uthando (Love) South Africa, the Goal50 Edu Hub aims to empower local youth and educators.

Its design has a creative twist and is a thoughtfully planned, sustainable space that will provide essential support to the local community.

Incorporating 5,000 rammed-earth tyres, the walls will be formed with ecobricks and glass bottle details, cob, and natural plasters.

Spanning 750 square metres, it will encompass two outdoor play areas equipped with astro-turf, natural landscaping, and a jungle gym.

The facility will include four generous classrooms, an administration annexe with office and reception areas, and a service building – with the first floor serving as a residential unit for the school principal.

The design prioritises climate change considerations by using sustainable building materials and techniques that establish a new standard for environmental responsibility.

The interior will be meticulously crafted to inspire and stimulate young minds, creating a nurturing and engaging environment for early learning.

More than just buildings, sustainable ECD centres are a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change.

By establishing a state-of-the-art centre in Heideveld and elsewhere across SA, Natural Building Collective is setting the standard by providing essential and environmentally-responsible infrastructure for the community.

TRANSFORMING LIVES

© NATURAL BUILDING COLLECTIVE

22 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

Natural Building Collective boasts a notable history of undertaking transformative projects, most prominently for the non-profit

TOPICAL FOCUS NATURAL BUILDING COLLECTIVE

excavated site, which allows for easy compaction.

For packing the walls constructed with tyres, cob, and ecobricks, materials were sourced through outreach efforts to local schools and individual donations. Additionally, glass bottles were obtained from a recycling firm.

Exterior walls are coated with an earthen plaster reinforced with cement to ensure ease of maintenance, whilst interior walls feature lime plaster.

BUILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE The costs of conventional construction are typically externalised, meaning a lot of the work is done off-site in terms of manufacturing materials such as bricks and cement.

© RIAAN WEST

organisation Ulwazi Educare in Delft, Cape Town.

The school strived to provide the necessary facilities to give the children a positive start in life, but was stifled by financial constraints.

As a result, it has been reimagined by Natural Building Collective to support an ECD centre.

Currently recognised as the largest tyre building in SA, it was designed in collaboration with award-winning sustainable architect Paul Marais and demonstrates the innovative use of natural materials, most of which are recycled and reclaimed.

The classrooms began as repurposed and refurnished shipping containers until Natural Building

Collective became involved and rebuilt them, alongside the ECD centre, utilising tyres, ecobricks, cob, glass bottles, bricks made from the recycled film industry waste, and reclaimed doors and windows.

Moreover, it will expand its use to cater to senior citizens, community outreach programmes, and support groups, continuing the narrative of sustainability and renewal.

The tyres are arranged in rows and compacted with earth until they become solid, and to ensure uniformity, all tyres in each row are chosen to have the same depth.

The fill material used for the tyres is a mixture of recycled building rubble and earth sourced from an

© NATURAL BUILDING COLLECTIVE

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 23

TOPICAL FOCUS NATURAL BUILDING COLLECTIVE

INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNIQUES ECOBRICK CONSTRUCTION: • Walls and insulation – Plastic bottles can be filled with sand or other materials to create dense, insulated walls. These bottles are typically stacked and plastered over to form stable walls that provide insulation against heat and sound.

• Benefits – Using plastic bottles helps reduce waste and offers a costeffective building solution. Bottles can be sourced cheaply or even for free from local communities, thereby promoting recycling.

• Design flexibility – Structures made from plastic bottles can be designed in various sizes and shapes, allowing for creativity and customisation in architectural design.

TYRE CONSTRUCTION: • Rammed earth technique – Used tyres are often filled with soil and stacked to create walls. This method, sometimes referred to as ‘tyre building’, provides substantial thermal mass, which helps regulate indoor temperatures.

• Strength and durability – Tyres are incredibly durable and can withstand harsh conditions. When compacted and covered with stucco or earth, tyre walls can last for many years.

• Environmental impact – Utilising old tyres helps mitigate the environmental issues associated with tyre disposal, reducing landfill waste and pollution.

Both methods emphasise local involvement and eco-friendliness, offering workshops and volunteer opportunities that allow community members to learn and participate in the building process.

This approach not only fosters skill development but also builds a sense of ownership and connection to the created spaces.

© NATURAL BUILDING COLLECTIVE

24 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

This process does not directly benefit local communities, as factories are often not near the building site.

In contrast, sustainable building requires a far greater proportion of the work to be carried out on-site. As tyre building requires a lot of physical work, more local people are employed for the duration of the project, learning new skills. Furthermore, the money goes where it is really needed – to the community.

Many sustainable materials can be sourced locally, minimising financial and environmental costs. They

© RIAAN WEST

enhance comfort with natural thermal efficiency and, when combined with passive solar design, help to regulate indoor temperatures yearround by generating a significant portion of their own energy through smart material use.

Historically, the construction industry has been a major energy consumer and greenhouse gas (GHG) emitter, with cement production the third largest global source of anthropogenic carbon emissions following fossil fuels and land-use changes.

Utilising a hybrid of natural and recycled building materials and sustainable techniques can thereby reduce GHG emissions and foster vital infrastructure that benefits communities.

As a result, sustainable buildings have a lower carbon footprint not only during construction but also throughout their lifespan. By nature, they create a more positive social impact as they do not depend on materials with high embodied energy, thereby contributing to local job creation.

The Goal50 Edu Hub building, along with others like it, will serve as a showcase for innovation and eco-friendly construction practices, proving that sustainability and community development go hand-in-hand, fostering a legacy of positive change for future generations.

Through such visionary projects, Natural Building Collective is not merely constructing buildings; it is laying the foundations for change, transformation, and uplifting communities, one brick at a time.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 25

Adding to the success of its regional titles; Africa Outlook, EME Outlook, APAC Outlook, and North America Outlook, Outlook Publishing is proud to introduce a new platform dedicated to the construction sector.

A multi-channel brand, Construction Outlook brings you the positive developments driven by organisations across the global construction industry through its various platforms.

Discover exclusive content distributed through its website, online magazine, social media campaigns and digital dispatches, delivered straight to your inbox with a bi-weekly newsletter.

Through these compelling media channels, Construction Outlook will continue to foreground the movers and shakers of the industry.

To participate as a featured company and join us in this exciting endeavour, contact one of our Project Managers today.

SUBSCRIBE NOW TO THE DIGITAL MAGAZINE

www.construction-outlook.com/work-with-us

BESPOKE L U X U RY FOR LIVING WELL Equipped with purpose-driven design and a passion for modern living, Aurum Group is an award-winning space and business innovator with a steadfast focus on the future of people. Michelle Yong, CEO, tells us more Writer: Lucy Pilgrim

| Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram

T

he real estate landscape in Singapore has experienced significant transformation over the last five years, especially in today’s post-COVID-19 pandemic world.

This coincides with the industry’s increased attention on wellness, sustainability, flexibility, and multigenerational living.

“The concept of a home has evolved from being a physical space to becoming a sanctuary and hub for work, wellness, and social connection,” opens Michelle Yong, CEO of Aurum Land, a leading boutique property development company in Singapore.

There has additionally been a noticeable shift towards communitycentric and mixed-use developments that not only encourage crosssector collaboration but also provide convenient living without 28 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

compromising on lifestyle.

This industry-wide shift aligns with a simultaneous rise in the use of digitalisation in construction and property management, whilst environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices also remain at the forefront of real estate organisations’ minds.

“At Aurum Land, we’ve embraced this shift by placing an even greater emphasis on design thinking, purposeful living, and user experience across all our developments,” Yong highlights.

Indeed, the company has evolved to become an award-winning boutique property development business, renowned for its design-led residential projects such as The Hyde, NYON, The Asana, and The Orient, each of which are located in prime districts across Singapore.

AURUM GROUP ASIA PACIFIC

AURUM GROUP ASIA PACIFIC

wellness, and asset management, all driven by a shared commitment to shaping sustainable businesses that positively impact lives across generations.

“What this means is that all the businesses we create have an intention and objective to leave a positive impact on people with a forward-looking perspective,” Yong insights.

DO WELL AND DO GOOD

“With a reputation for thoughtful architecture, lifestyle-orientated design, and exceptional quality, Aurum Land has consistently delivered homes that blend form and function.

“The company continues to push boundaries by creating homes that reflect modern aspirations whilst positively shaping urban living experiences,” Yong affirms.

Aurum Land is a boutique property developer and wholly-owned subsidiary of Woh Hup Group, one of Singapore’s largest and most 30 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

established construction companies with over 98 years of industry experience.

Leveraging Woh Hup Group’s deep expertise in construction and engineering, Aurum Land brings a design-led and human-centric approach to property development, consistently delivering award-winning residential projects known for thoughtful architecture and highquality finishes.

As part of Aurum Group, Aurum Land contributes to a diverse portfolio encompassing real estate, fitness,

Aurum Land is key to Woh Hup Group’s growth and diversification strategy which is extending the organisation’s capabilities upstream.

On the other hand, Aurum Land gains access to deep construction and engineering expertise and strong relationships with suppliers, consultants, and stakeholders across the value chain thanks to Woh Hup Group’s global network, providing the company with a strong foundation of quality, reliability, and scale.

“When I joined Aurum Land in 2007, my goal was to build on the strong reputation and technical excellence of Woh Hup Group to offer discerning property buyers a more decisionled and human-centric approach to property development,” Yong recalls.

This objective was realised through the company’s distinguished approach whereby developers put themselves in homeowners’ shoes when making decisions and uphold a high attention to detail across all their designs.

As a result, Aurum Land’s customers consistently receive unique and compelling design concepts that excel in urban living convenience.

Elsewhere, the company is also bound by Woh Hup Group’s core purpose to ‘Do Well and Do Good’, which sees it building a sustainable business that positively impacts lives across generations.

“We’ve taken this ethos and embedded it into our property development philosophy, allowing us to marry form, function, and heart.

HOW DO STRONG SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIPS CONTRIBUTE TO THE SUCCESS OF AURUM LAND? MICHELLE YONG, CEO: “Strong partnerships are essential to our success. At Aurum Land, we work with trusted architects, consultants, suppliers, and contractors – many of whom have been with us for years.

“We value transparency, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to excellence.

“Woh Hup Group’s extensive network strengthens our supply chain and allows us to innovate without compromising on quality or safety.”

Shaping Singapore’s Urban Landscape Established nearly a century ago, Woh Hup has grown to become a pioneer of Singapore’s construction and civil engineering industry through the consistent delivery of high-quality, innovative building solutions for the nation’s landmark developments Founded in 1927 by Yong Yit Lin as a one-man firm, Woh Hup has significantly evolved from its humble origins.

Over the past 98 years, the company has grown alongside Singapore’s urban development, establishing a strong national footprint to become one of the country’s largest privately-owned construction and civil engineering specialist.

Woh Hup’s position at the forefront of the built environment has been achieved by providing highquality, sustainable, and innovative construction solutions, supported by the continued dedication, passion, and hard work of its 3,000+ employees and workforce.

This enviable reputation is further strengthened by its commitment to high standards of quality and safety across every project, creating lasting value for clients.

From the design concept stage through to project completion, Woh Hup’s dedicated team of professional engineers are fully engaged to collaborate with the company’s extensive list of clients and consultants, ultimately optimising design and construction methods.

CRAFTING SINGAPORE’S LANDMARKS

Woh Hup’s expansive project portfolio has solidified its place at the helm of Singapore’s built environment sector, boasting more than 160 projects since 1927.

Some of Woh Hup’s more notable projects include:

NYON

This remarkable development received numerous accolades upon its completion, such as the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Construction Excellence Awards Merit in 2013 and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Gold Award a year earlier.

Jewel Changi Airport Jewel Changi Airport is an exceptionally crafted 10-storey structure with five levels both above and below ground, creating one of the deepest basement buildings in Singapore.

Gardens by the Bay Gardens by the Bay offers three distinctive waterfront gardens that contribute to Singapore’s reputation as the world’s premier garden city.

Completed in 2012 for the National Parks Board, the development serves as an architectural icon, horticultural attraction, and shining example of the far-reaching impacts of sustainable energy technology.

Reflections at Keppel Bay A showcase of luxury waterfront living in the bustling metropolis, this magnificent structure is Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind’s first residential development in Asia, making a mark on Singapore’s development landscape.

Photos: Showcasing Aurum Land developments built by Woh Hup

1919

The Orient

The Asana

Boasting a total floor area of 135,700 square metres, Jewel Changi Airport is specially designed in a unique geometrical shape in order to face all three of its terminal buildings, which have a sky train track running through them.

The true significance and a highly impressive engineering feat nestled within Jewel Changi Airport is a 40-metre rain vortex touted the world’s largest man-made waterfall at the time of construction.

The development earnt a vast array of accolades for its forward-thinking construction approach, including President’s Design Award Singapore and Building of the Year from Singapore Institute of Architects - Architectural Design Awards in 2020.

Three11

BUILDING WITH INTEGRITY

Woh Hup’s forward-thinking construction solutions not only support global sustainability targets but have a positive socioeconomic impact on each development’s surrounding community.

The company’s steadfast environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy ensures Woh Hup can build resilience amongst stakeholders, engage with the community, and achieve sustainable development.

Guided by its corporate purpose – ‘Do Well, Do Good’ – Woh Hup likewise strongly believes in doing its part for less privileged populations.

This ethos of serving the community was first instilled by its founder upon establishing Woh Hup and continues to drive its team today.

At the forefront of Singapore’s built environment, Woh Hup continues to provide high-quality, sustainable, and innovative construction solutions that have a positive impact not only on the nation’s urban development but the planet’s carbon footprint.

217 Upper Bukit Timah Road Woh Hup Building Singapore 588185 T +65 6385 8585 E general@wohhup.com WWW.WOHHUP.COM

Hyde

AURUM GROUP ASIA PACIFIC

CORE COLLECTIVE The first of its kind, Core Collective is a co-working platform with a vision to democratise fitness and wellness entrepreneurship and lower barriers to entry, making it easier for fitness and wellness businesses to flourish.

With over 270 resident professionals currently offering services such as personal training, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and children’s therapy, Core Collective supports the success of communities through extensive facilities and seamless operational support.

Established in 2018, the company began its journey with a flagship location in Singapore’s central business district (CBD), predominantly serving white-collar professionals.

The organisation subsequently opened additional locations across Singapore, namely in Dempsey, a suburban area catering to families, and i12 Katong, a mall in eastern Singapore with substantial footfall that makes the company’s wellness services more accessible.

“This synergy enables us to push boundaries in design and innovation whilst never compromising on build quality and safety,” Yong shares.

Aurum Land’s multiple awards are testament to the company’s stateof-the-art developments, achieving accolades such as Best Boutique Developer at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards in Singapore for four consecutive years, as well as being recognised as a winner of the World Gold Award in the Residential (Low Rise) category as part of the FIABCI Prix d’Excellence Awards.

34 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

A NEW ERA OF BESPOKE A sister brand of Aurum Land, Anagram Homes (Anagram) represents a new era of bespoke freehold landed properties in Singapore.

Each home is designed as a timeless canvas for generational living, reflecting the individuality, memories, and evolving needs of its homeowners.

The division expertly reimagines landed living as deeply personal and fully configurable for clients.

“The brand’s name – a word formed

by re-arranging the letters of another word – reflects our desire to allow our homeowners to reconfigure the layout of their homes and select the key feature finishes that best suit their lifestyle and stylistic needs, which is not usually possible when buying new, landed properties,” Yong explains.

With multiple projects in the pipeline, the brand aims to elevate the standard of landed housing and provide homeowners with spaces that are meaningful, flexible, and enduring.

Anagram’s development at Kheam Hock Road, for instance, is the first

Building Resilience Across the Region Founded in Singapore, MAP Group (Maxbond Asia Pacific) has grown into a vertically integrated network of companies with deep expertise in the waterproofing specialisation in the built environment sector, offering end-to-end solutions from system installation, product manufacturing and distribution, and concrete and leakage repair - not just locally, but across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Maxbond Singapore: Masters in Waterproofing MAP Group’s journey began in 1999 with Maxbond Singapore, originally a distributor of waterproofing and wet trade materials serving Singapore’s growing construction industry. In 2006, the acquisition of LC United equipped the company with on-site capabilities and technical know-how, evolving into a full-scope waterproofing solutions provider. Over the decades, it has achieved ISO, BCA, SCI, Green and Gracious Builder certifications and played key roles in iconic Singapore projects such as Marina Bay Sands and Jewel Changi Airport.

Movex: Expansion and Joint Solutions Movex augments the Group’s vertical integration through the supply of construction and expansion joint solutions, leakage & concrete repair materials. Movex serves projects from underground tunnels to airports, supplying products and designto-install solutions in Singapore and Indonesia.

Movenflow: Concrete and Leakage Repair Specialists Movenflow complements the waterproofing arm, delivering complete concrete repair, protection, and restoration services.

The expert teams utilise both proven methodologies and modern technology to tackle leakage, cracks, voids, and structural defects in both private and public developments.

MAP Studio: Surfaces with Style and Quality MAP Studio supplies premium-quality tiles and natural stone finishes. Working closely with designers and contractors, its curated range is widely used in hospitality, residential, and commercial projects across Singapore.

MAP E&C: Manufacturing Strength in Malaysia Based in Johor Bahru, MAP E&C is the Group’s manufacturing arm, producing proprietary waterproofing materials and construction products. This facility ensures consistent quality, reliable supply, and cost efficiency for projects in Singapore and across the region.

Maxbond Vietnam: Regional Reach and Local Expertise Established in 2012, Maxbond Vietnam is part of MAP’s regional expansion. With its own production facility in Hanoi, it manufactures and distributes eco-conscious waterproofing solutions tailored to local climates.

A Unified Vision: One-Stop Excellence Together, the MAP Group of companies form an ecosystem: from manufacturing, to materials supply, to expert on-site service.

It is more than a collection of companies. It’s a regional leader committed to building resilience, delivering value and deepening trust with our valued clients and business partners — one structure at a time.

T: +65 6457 3168 | enquiry@mapgroup.sg | www.mapgroup.sg

AURUM GROUP ASIA PACIFIC

in its luxury bespoke collection of landed properties, featuring eight houses.

“The licensed development stands out for its impressive scale, offering greater security and peace of mind in a market often defined by smaller, unlicensed, and unregulated projects,” Yong expands.

With a choice of detached, semidetached, and terraced houses on offer, the company provides flexible layouts that balance privacy with connection, with each property featuring a second self-contained dwelling unit.

Inspired by the concept of Seijaku, Anagram’s homes also embody a profound sense of tranquillity and calm, emphasised in the Kheam Hock Rock development.

The Japanese principle, which emphasises serenity and stillness, guides the brand’s design philosophy of creating sanctuaries that offer a 36 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

retreat from the chaos of everyday life.

“A key feature of Anagram is its monolithic language; defined by a series of fenestrations, the development’s otherwise solid exterior is fragmented by little pockets of green, drawing nature into

each home.

“The placement of the fenestrations was carefully considered to create a balance between affording privacy whilst ensuring an abundance of natural light and ventilation,” Yong outlines.

AURUM GROUP ASIA PACIFIC

Build Everything With Passion China Star Building Construction Pte Ltd, founded in 2014, specialises in wet trade and tiling works. It is a BCA registered Class 2 general builder and is accredited with bizSAFE Star. The company works with many established main contractors and has built up a diversified portfolio comprising of building projects in the residential and industrial sectors, amongst others.

China Star Building Construction has a workforce of more than 300 workers from non-traditional sources and China. Their committed management team has consistently delivered high-quality works in accordance with local industry standards.

10 Ubi Crescent #04-86, Ubi Techpark Lobby E, Singapore 408564 TEL: (65) 69095258 | enquiry.csbc@gmail.com | www.chinastar.sg

Shaping Spaces with Purpose: The Evolving Practice of Park + Associates At Park + Associates, design always leads the conversation. Founded by Lim Koon Park, the firm has built its reputation on a multidisciplinary approach that blends architecture, interior design, master planning, and thematic and experiential design—creating spaces that are as thoughtful as they are forward-looking.

Innovation is part of the DNA, but it’s never the driver. When the firm delivered Singapore’s first 3D-printed house, it wasn’t about showcasing technology—it was about pushing design boundaries. “I didn’t want the technology to lead,” Lim Koon Park reflects. “It should be a value-add – not a limitation.” That philosophy continues to shape how the firm approaches emerging tools and platforms, including CORENET X. This mindset extends to how the firm navigates global complexity. With active projects in China, India, Fiji, and Indonesia, Park + Associates balances risk across markets while remaining agile in the face of shifting political and economic tides.

Typological breadth—from hospitality and residential to institutional and commercial spaces—further strengthens the practice. Each project is conceived from the belief that design, when done right, can shape not just spaces, but experiences. info@parkassociates.com.sg

@parkassociates

www.parkassociates.com.sg

park-associates-pte-ltd

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 37

The façade of each unit has also been carefully crafted to ensure that no two homes are alike, offering a sense of individuality.

THE HEIGHT OF PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT Elsewhere, Aurum Land’s largest completed development, The Hyde, is located at Balmoral Road in Singapore and inspired by the panoramic views overlooking Goodwood Hill.

“For this project, we wanted to emulate Hyde Park in London, UK.

We created a rooftop communal area with a sky club, an infinity pool, and vast open space.

“The idea was to be weddingworthy where people would want to host their intimate solemnisations or marriage proposals,” Yong outlines.

The development’s 50-metre swimming pool, in particular, was modelled after The Serpentine in Hyde Park, with a floating disc-like edge.

Contained within the body of water, Aurum Land also designed the entire constellation with over 1,000

fibre optic lights to reflect the night sky above, creating a dramatic and enchanting view for nearby homeowners.

The development has four communal pavilions, one of which offers a communal playroom which acts as an extension of homeowners’ living rooms, making a perfect space for growing families.

“Having four children of my own, I know how much space their toys take up and how quickly they can get bored of their own things.

“The playroom is a communal living room for children where they can borrow books or exchange toys,” Yong smiles.

The company’s upcoming projects include the construction of a pair of luxurious detached houses situated near Holland Road – the latest instalment in Anagram’s collection with an abundance of customisation possibilities.

VALUES-BASED LEADERSHIP Aurum Group strives to consistently empower staff by granting them ownership, room to grow, and recognition for the impact they make.

AURUM GROUP ASIA PACIFIC

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Cut • Carve • Create With over 30 years in the industry, we’ve proudly delivered quality flooring solutions for top-tier projects alongside leading architects and developers such as DP Architects, ADDP, CDL, and GuocoLand.

Renowned for our professionalism, reliability, and premium product range, we specialise in residential and commercial flooring that meets the highest standards. It is our pleasure to extend our expertise and trusted service to your prestigious residential unit - bringing timeless quality and craftsmanship into every space we serve.

Visit our website: www.woodcouture.sg

AURUM GROUP’S CORE BRANDS Aurum Land – Industry-leading property development branch.

Anagram Homes – A sister brand of Aurum Land representing a new era of bespoke, freehold landed homes in Singapore.

Core Collective – A leading fitness, wellness, and lifestyle co-sharing platform.

Aurum Asset Management – Real investment arm of Aurum Group.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 39

AURUM GROUP ASIA PACIFIC

“Many of our team members have been with us for years and I believe that’s because they feel seen, heard, and valued,” Yong shares.

Indeed, paying close attention to the needs of her staff and ensuring they feel listened to is something Yong feels deeply passionate about.

In light of this, Aurum Group hosts weekly check-ins with all its team members, which ensure that they feel supported and managers can help overcome any obstacles staff may be facing.

These meetings also provide opportunities to align and discuss the coming week’s priorities, helping to provide staff with a sense of direction.

This is further supported by in-depth monthly check-ins as well as quarterly townhall conferences where the company shares updates on its performance and strategic direction and how each team member can contribute to its success.

Aurum Group is, evidently, a highly

transparent business where effective forms of communication are used to fiercely protect company culture.

“We also believe in emphasising core values that give a lot more autonomy to team members. We trust they will make the right decisions in the face of difficult situations by referring back to the core values.”

All new team members attend a vision and values onboarding session led by Yong where she goes through the history of the company, what its core purpose and vision are, why these are important, and how each of the different companies contributes to Aurum Group’s vision.

AIDING AN AGEING POPULATION Singapore’s real estate sector will continue to evolve towards greater integration of technology, wellness, and sustainability in the future, driven by homebuyers that are not only looking for a living space, but for

a strong community and valuable experiences.

With this in mind, Aurum Land is working on the conceptualisation and go-to-market of a new senior living home and social club test pilot in the coming year.

This coincides with the nation’s rapidly ageing population and senior living sector that is moving beyond traditional nursing homes and towards integrated, communityfocused models that support ageing and social connectivity.

Indeed, 18 percent of Singapore’s population is currently 65 years old and above. By 2030, this figure will increase to 25 percent, whilst the number of seniors living alone is steadily rising from the 12 percent it is currently.

As such, Aurum Land strives to address the nation-wide problem of elderly loneliness, which can result in higher levels of depression and cognitive decline.

Levering the collective capabilities of the brands that comprise Aurum Group, the company strives to redefine retirement, re-shaping the way people experience their later years by creating spaces and opportunities that foster independence, connection, and holistic well-being.

“We want to be able to help independent, able-bodied single seniors address their pain points of low or no social engagement, manage existing or anticipated health concerns, and create opportunities for community, companionship, and lifelong learning – all whilst allowing seniors to maintain their independence,” Yong concludes.

Tel: +65 8717 1755 enquiries@aurum.sg

www.aurum.sg Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 41

WHERE FORM AND FUNCTION COMBINE Founded by Brian Eckersley and James O’Callaghan in 2004, Eckersley O’Callaghan is an award-winning structural and façade engineering firm with a shared vision of a design practice that truly integrates engineering and architecture. Yanchee Lau, Director – Hong Kong, reflects on how the industry in Asia is evolving and outlines some of the company’s stand-out projects Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram

A

competitive environment with many clients seeking to distinguish themselves from the crowd, the construction landscape in Asia Pacific (APAC) has evolved in recent years, with constant advancements enabling it to rapidly become bigger, faster, and better.

A leader in office towers, retail and 42 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

transport-orientated developments, and mixed-use buildings, Asia is home to many impressive structures that often incorporate unique features to help them stand out.

A structural and façade engineering consultant for architectural construction projects, Eckersley O’Callaghan (EOC) is ideally

positioned to help clients in this growing market achieve their goals, collaborating with architects, designers, engineers, consultants, and contractors across all sectors.

“We focus on technical challenges and enhancing architecture no matter the scale. Often, clients come to us when they have a particularly

ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN ASIA PACIFIC

challenging engineering problem, and we offer a solution that they might have thought not possible,” opens Yanchee Lau, Director – Hong Kong.

The company also supplements its services with sustainability and digital design expertise depending on the nature of each project.

Whilst EOC is nominally a British company headquartered in London, it maintains an international mindset and has a global network of offices across the US, Europe, and APAC with whom it actively collaborates.

“We pool the knowledge and expertise gleaned from all our local markets for the benefit of other

markets,” Lau explains.

In APAC, the company has a studio in Hong Kong, China – with more offices in Delhi, India and Sydney, Australia – and serves many countries across the region, including mainland China, Macau, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 43

“These are all different markets with their own styles and local practices. As such, we remain agile and adaptable in how we work – but the common thread continues to be intelligent engineering,” Lau outlines.

AMONGST THE CLOUDS

The Henderson, Hong Kong

44 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

A carefully integrated structural composition of steel and glass, Banquet Hall – also known as Cloud 39 – is an event space enclosed by a 600 square metre (sqm) skylight structure featuring an integrated composition of glass and long-span steelwork to maximise transparency.

“We’re very proud of our involvement in this project, which was conceived for maximum transparency and elegance to enable connection with the outside,” Lau continues.

Banquet Hall crowns The Henderson – a 200 metre (m)-tall office tower designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and the latest addition to the iconic architecture of Hong Kong’s Central Business District.

One of the biggest challenges the company faced when working on this project were the very high wind loads often faced in the country from typhoons, which can measure at a factor of up to five times higher than in Europe.

As such, the issue with having so much glass in a structure like this is controlling its movement.

“If it moves too much, the glass might break – it’s all a balancing act. So, we really had to sharpen our pencils to keep elements slim and integrated – there’s a reason why it’s extremely rare for a tower to be crowned by such a steel and glass structure,” he explains.

In response, EOC implemented clever design techniques – such as a frameless 7 m glass wall and glass beams in the skylight – to guarantee Banquet Hall’s structural stability whilst delivering the desired aesthetic.

“The glass wall enables uninterrupted views across Hong Kong’s iconic skyline,” Lau adds.

ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN ASIA PACIFIC

is therefore challenging to build tall structures with it alone.

CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR RECENT LANDMARK WORK ON ATLASSIAN CENTRAL? Yanchee Lau, Director – Hong Kong: “Atlassian Central is a landmark 200 m-tall office tower in Sydney, Australia that is currently under construction.

“As such, we came up with a hybrid solution that comprises a steel structure every five floors within the building – like a bookcase. Then, four-storey timber buildings are constructed within those steel shelves.

“It’s an innovative way of maximising the volume of timber used as, typically, materials of much higher carbon intensity would have been used instead.”

“It will set benchmarks in sustainability, including embodied carbon – the carbon emissions associated with production – since we engineered a design that incorporates a high proportion of timber within its structure to replace concrete and steel where possible.

“Timber has significantly lower embodied carbon than concrete and steel, but it’s not as strong and

“WE OFTEN S AY T H AT T H E SIMPLICITY OF THE O U TCO M E B E L I E S THE COMPLEXITY OF THE ENGINEERING BEHIND IT” – YA N C H E E L A U , D I R E C T O R – H O N G KO N G , E C K E R S L E Y O ’ C A L L AG H A N

The company is also responsible for engineering the elevated pedestrian walkways around the ground level of the building which are knitted into the fabric of existing paths.

“The Henderson is a truly unique and visionary project, and in many ways gives generously to the public,” he explains.

Cloud 39 at The Henderson

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 45

Where Every Glass Becomes Art

New Performing Arts Venue

G

lass is no longer a silent component of modern buildings; it has become the medium through which architecture communicates with light, space, and culture. At NorthGlass, each pane of glass is envisioned not merely as a building material but as a piece of art that carries the soul of a city. This philosophy has guided the company for nearly three decades, transforming it from a pioneer in glass tempering technology into a global leader in architectural glass innovation.

Transforming Architecture Through Glass From iconic skyscrapers to cultural landmarks, NorthGlass has continuously demonstrated how advanced glass processing can elevate architecture beyond function. In Shenzhen, the OPPO Headquarters showcases more than 70,000 square metres (sqm) of super energy-saving curtain wall glass, including nearly 10,000 pieces of superlarge, multi-curved, and irregularly shaped glass panels. Each element was engineered with extreme precision, enabling the headquarters to embody both technological progress and aesthetic brilliance.

The National Speed Skating Oval in Beijing, known as the ‘Ice Ribbon’, stands as another striking example.

Here, more than 2,000 tempered half-tubes of varying sizes were integrated seamlessly with a complex steel structure through dynamic simulation technology.

The resulting curtain wall system resembles flowing ribbons of glass, echoing the speed and rhythm of athletes on the ice. The project not only tested the limits of glass shaping and installation but also elevated structural engineering into a visual performance.

Further afield, the Mori JP Tower in Tokyo’s Azabudai Hills development—currently the tallest building in Japan—adopts super glass crafted by NorthGlass.

Despite its massive scale, the façade maintains exceptional flatness and optical clarity, reflecting the skyline of Tokyo. Similarly, at Two Taikoo Place in Hong Kong, glass panels with an area of 12 sqm each were installed at a height of 190 metres (m).

Even under challenging environmental conditions, the panels maintain mirror-like reflection, projecting Victoria Harbour as a flawless moving image across the façade.

Two Taikoo Place

Tokyo Azabudai Hills

From the corrugated glass curtain wall of Bloomberg’s European headquarters in London to the New Performing Arts Venue in Brisbane, NorthGlass’ architectural glass solutions are redefining the relationship between material and design on a global stage.

Leading with Innovation

Behind these achievements lies relentless innovation.

One of the company’s most transformative breakthroughs is the gapless forced convection system, which redefined the industry standards of flat tempered glass. By introducing an intelligent

temperature control system, advanced convection design, and upgraded wind grille technology, NorthGlass significantly improved optical quality and flatness. Inspection data confirms that the flatness of NorthGlass tempered glass reaches 0.06/300 millimetres, whilst bow is controlled within one percent - a level of precision that ensures uninterrupted visual purity across even the largest glass façades.

Equally important are advances in safety and durability. In the NorthGlass Safety Standard Laboratory, laminated glass is subjected to rigorous testing. Even when struck by heavy steel balls, the glass develops only spider-web cracks whilst maintaining structural integrity. This resilience is the result of a composite lamination process that enables the glass to resist not only extreme weather events such as typhoons but also explosive shockwaves, ensuring that modern buildings meet the highest safety requirements.

Intelligent Manufacturing and R&D Power NorthGlass’ achievements are inseparable from its intelligent manufacturing ecosystem. At the Tianjin base of the NorthGlass Glass Deep Processing BU, automated production lines integrate advanced tempering furnaces, digital monitoring, and quality control systems. In this environment, a single sheet of nearly 20 sqm of low iron coated glass can be shaped with consistency and accuracy at temperatures reaching 650°C. The company invests more than 8.5 percent of its annual revenue into research and development, maintaining continuous progress through provincial and ministerial key laboratories. By integrating coating lines, lamination processes, and tempering technologies into a collaborative innovation chain, NorthGlass pushes the boundaries of what architectural glass can achieve. The result is an expanding portfolio that ranges from Low-Iron and Low-E coated glass to bespoke, special-shaped, and curved tempered products.

Driving Sustainable Futures

As the global construction industry faces increasing pressure to address climate change, NorthGlass is at the forefront of providing sustainable glass solutions. Its super energy-saving products are designed to minimise heat transfer, reduce reliance on artificial cooling or heating, and significantly lower carbon emissions. In tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, these high-

Tianjin NorthGlass

performance façades have become vital tools for reducing energy consumption in commercial buildings.

Moreover, the company’s intelligent production lines prioritise resource efficiency. Closed-loop water systems, optimised energy use in furnaces, and advanced coating technologies all contribute to greener manufacturing. By aligning innovation with environmental responsibility, NorthGlass ensures that every pane of glass not only enhances a building’s beauty but also supports the planet’s long-term health.

Global Footprint and Cultural Resonance

With projects spanning all over the world, NorthGlass is not only a supplier of high-quality glass but also a cultural ambassador of Chinese innovation. Each international landmark bearing NorthGlass products is a testimony to the company’s ability to merge technology with artistry across diverse architectural styles and climates.

The company’s ethos is deeply rooted in the spirit of craftsmanship. The Tianjin base is often referred to as the “cradle of glass craftsmen,” where innovation and tradition blend seamlessly.

Here, NorthGlass nurtures a new generation of engineers and designers who treat every piece of glass as a canvas. It is this belief - that technology and art resonate most powerfully when they intersect that has shaped the company’s global reputation.

Beijing Library

The Future of Glass as Art

As cities continue to evolve, architectural glass will play an even greater role in balancing sustainability, safety, and beauty. NorthGlass is committed to developing solutions that reduce energy consumption, improve structural performance, and inspire new forms of architectural expression.

Ultimately, NorthGlass envisions architecture not simply as shelter or utility but as a spiritual totem of the city. When technology meets art through the medium of glass, buildings transcend their physical roles and become symbols of collective aspiration. By shaping glass into art, NorthGlass is helping shape the future of cities themselves.

Tianjin Base: No.20 Baozhong Road, Baodi District, Tianjin, China

World’s Leading Supplier for Glass Processing Solutions and Processed Glass Founded on May 18, 1995, NorthGlass, located in the Luoyang National High-Tech Industrial Development Zone, specialises in the research, design, manufacturing, and sales of glass processing equipment and processed glass products. There are three production bases in Luoyang, Shanghai, and Tianjin, with 9 BU. In 2011, NorthGlass made its mark on the global stage by successfully listing on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (Stock Code: 002613).

Shanghai Base: No.328, Guanghua Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, China Luoyang Base: No.20, Binhe Road, High-tech Development Zone, Luoyang, Henan, China T +86-22-59280088 E tngsales@northglass.com https://www.northglass.com Luoyang NorthGlass

company whose iconic stores are known for their extensive use of structural glass.

Not only does the client favour glass façades for the transparent aesthetic they provide but also enjoys the use of glass throughout each structure – even down to the staircases.

“The relentless pursuit of elegance through simplicity ultimately describes this client’s brand, which – project by project – has created an incremental increase in demand for glass innovation. We are proud to be part of that journey,” he tells us.

It can be argued that glass has made more strides than any other construction material in the past few decades, and with some of this client’s most spectacular projects located in Asia, EOC’s presence in the region can be seen to have played a significant role.

“We often say that the simplicity of the outcome belies the complexity of the engineering behind it,” Lau details.

As he continues to reflect on the intricacies involved in glass engineering, Lau notes how innovation with this material not only requires visionary clients and architects, but also a strong supplier network.

“The whole supply chain of suppliers, fabricators, and contractors must all pull in the same direction,” he adds.

NorthGlass in China, for example, and Sedak in Europe are major players fabricating large format curved glass who have proven this to be true.

Two Taikoo Place

Recognised for its excellence, Banquet Hall was shortlisted for two awards at this year’s Society of Façade Engineering (SFE) Façade 2025 Design and Engineering Awards: Project of the Year – New Build (International), and Innovation (International).

IN RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF ELEGANCE EOC is unique as it specialises in both 50 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

structures and façades, which shines through in architectural projects where both are integrated.

“Our dual expertise not only keeps material costs down for the client but contributes to the overall sustainability of each project. We’re focused on creating value from efficiency,” Lau points out.

A long-term client which has benefitted from this industry expertise is a global technology

PROJECTS OF NOTE In terms of ongoing projects, EOC is currently working on a large retail development in Sanya, China, on Hainan Island.

The development will provide 300,000 sqm of above-ground retail space, comprising around 30 blocks with key stores for high-end retail, boulevards, and feature structures.

“It’s almost like building a small

ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN ASIA PACIFIC

Jangho Group’s Jeddah Tower Under Construction – The World’s Tallest Tower at 1,008 Metres

WORKING FOR HUMAN’S LIVING ENVIRONMENT AND HEALTH

Jangho Group’s Hong Kong Lee Garden Eight Project (Facade Area: 75,000 sqm) (Image courtesy of Foster + Partners Architects)

JANGHO Group (A-share stock code: 601886.

SH) is a multinational enterprise group listed on the Main Board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange.

Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Beijing, the Group adheres to a “dual-core, diversified” development strategy, with core businesses encompassing building envelope systems (including facade, interior fitting out, and design, under brands such as JANGHO Curtain Wall, Sundart Group, JANGHO BIPV, Gangyuan Decoration, and SLD Steve Leung Design Group) and healthcare.

Jangho Group’s AIRSIDE (Facade Area: 46,000 sqm) – The Tallest Commercial Building in East Kowloon, Hong Kong

JANGHO Group expanded overseas for the first time in 2006 by entering the Macau market, followed by Hong Kong in 2010.

To date, it has completed over 70 percent of the casinos and hotels in Macau, along with numerous significant projects in Hong Kong, establishing itself as a top-tier façade contractor in both regions.

The Group’s operations span multiple countries and regions worldwide, including: Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Singapore, the Middle East (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, etc.) the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand in Asia; Australia in Oceania; as well as Europe, North America, and South America.

In 2024, the Group achieved annual revenue of RMB 22.4 billion, ranking as the world’s largest facade company by revenue.

Jangho Group’s Selection of Super High-Rise Skyscraper Projects

+852 3499 1645 | zhongwt@jangho.com www.jangho.com

town from scratch – just one example of the sheer scale of many construction projects currently underway in China,” Lau emphasises.

Elsewhere, the company has completed construction of a dome structure in South China which, coincidentally, has similar proportions to the dome at the Pantheon in Rome, Italy.

Using advanced digital design techniques, EOC carefully integrated and optimised the steel structure within the architectural geometry of the dome.

“We love this project because it is showcases a pure engineering process from start to finish,” he details.

“We took the steelwork from design to fabrication and even defined how pieces would be constructed in the factory and assembled on-site.”

Another example of a project that required intelligent engineering is Two Taikoo Place in Hong Kong.

K11 Art & Cultural Centre, Hong Kong

An office tower for Swire Properties, EOC provided façade engineering for the project, which utilises an impressive 3 m-wide glass

curtain wall unit to maximise views over the city for tenants – doubling the industry standard of a 1.5 m-wide glass curtain.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 51

ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN ASIA PACIFIC

SYDNEY HARBOR BRIDGE CYCLEWAY Designed with sensitivity to country, heritage, and setting in mind, EOC is working on the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge cycleway, slated for completion in early 2026.

The 190m cycleway bridge presents a new route connecting Sydney Harbour Bridge with Bradfield Park North – a connection which currently requires cyclists to ascend or descend a 50-step stairway.

The design of the bridge balances functionality with elegance, creating a minimal and fluid form that connects seamlessly to the wider bike network.

However, the star of the show is the 15 m tall glass lobby, which incorporates tension rods within the vertical joints between the glass panels to create the illusion of a seamless, curved glass façade.

“This avoids the use of mullions or any other kind of visible structure – I often joke that it looks like something is missing in a good way!

“The objective of this project was to achieve a truly minimal aesthetic, so it’s a great example of incredibly high-level, involved engineering for minimalism.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE As this year marks two decades of EOC, Lau reflects on what this important milestone means to both the business and his own career.

“I’ve been with the company for a decade and, during that time, the scale of the projects we are equipped to handle has grown significantly,” he observes.

Whilst EOC may have once been considered niche in terms of its technical expertise, today it provides solutions that unlock complex challenges for the benefit of projects across a wide plethora of locations and market sectors.

“Not many companies make it to 20 years, and our founders Brian and James remain deeply invested in

Ecersley O’Callaghan London office on their summer trip in Folkestone

52 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

SKP Chengdu

our day-to-day operations, running and managing our global network of offices,” he reveals.

“Our motivation continues to be working on the most interesting construction projects in the world.”

As the demands of the market continue to constantly shift, EOC has remained agile in adapting to these changes.

ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN ASIA PACIFIC

SKP CHENGDU EOC oversaw the bespoke and advanced structural glass design of the ‘water cube’ entrance way for high-end shopping centre, SKP Chengdu in China.

In collaboration with architects Sybarite, the company engineered the façades and canopies in the main entrances of two department stores, three glass boxes including the main glass box located at the centre of the plot, and the Y-shaped pedestrian bridge.

“The water cube is the entrance to the subterranean mall, where water encased within glass façades creates an aesthetic trickle effect – it’s quite unique,” Lau observes.

As a result of its truly ‘Instagrammable’ features, SKP Chengdu is garnering a reputation for its unique architectural design, establishing itself as a recognisable landmark in the city.

EOC has played an important role in the project being shortlisted for a handful of prestigious awards, including: • The World Architecture Festival Awards 2023 – Shortlisted as part of

Looking ahead, Lau sees the company expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia, India, and Australia in the coming years.

In particular, he anticipates sustainability emerging as a key trend across APAC going forwards – in the same way it is a dominant priority for construction projects across Europe today.

“The climate crisis is real, and we at EOC are well placed to transfer our lessons learned from global projects,” Lau concludes.

“As we see more typhoons and weather phenomena in the region, we must ask ourselves – are our buildings designed for today also robust enough for tomorrow?”

the Future Project category • ArchDaily Building of the Year 2024 – Nominated for the Public and Landscape Architecture category • Architizer A+ Awards 2024 – Jury winner in the Commercial Shopping Centre category

Tel: +852 9799 8812 hello@eocengineers.com

www.eocengineers.com Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 53

FRONTRUNNERS IN SINGAPOREAN FAC I L I T I E S M A N AG E M E N T 54 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

CBM Pte Ltd is on a mission to deliver cuttingedge integrated and total facilities management services to the burgeoning Singaporean market. Roy Chiang, President and CEO, details the company’s sustainability, innovation, and customer-centric approach Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram

E

nsuring the efficiency and safety of the built environment, the integrated facilities management (FM) sector in the increasingly diverse landscape of Singapore has undergone significant transformation over the last 20 years, evolving from traditional, reactive operations to a technologydriven, predictive, and strategic industry.

Indeed, major trends, milestones, and significant events have accelerated digital transformation and smart FM operations across the country, including the green certification of notable buildings,

such as the Building and Construction Authority’s (BCA) Green Mark Certification Scheme, and the COVID19 pandemic.

The sector has also witnessed an increased focus on sustainability, most pointedly demonstrated by the introduction of the Singapore Green Building Masterplan (SGBMP), which has given rise to the development of the government’s Smart Nation initiative.

As a result, energy efficiency technology, including building and energy management systems and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and devices, can be leveraged far easier.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 55

CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

Such developments have also led to better resource management – particularly regarding electric, water, gas, waste, and manpower – as well as greater data analysis and optimisation and the emergence of integrated FM platforms.

“The use of these technologies formed the model for datadriven, technology-enabled, and sustainable FM, such as automated work order systems, asset lifecycle management, and overall integration with sustainability goals,” opens Roy Chiang, President and CEO of CBM Pte Ltd (CBM) – Singapore’s leading integrated FM services provider at the helm of this evolution.

“A focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric service continues to underpin both our growth and reputation in the market,” Mr Chiang prides.

City Square Mall

ACHIEVING SUSTAINED GROWTH Originally known as City Building Management, CBM was founded in 1971 as a subsidiary of City Developments Limited (CDL).

Its initial mission was to provide basic in-house engineering, cleaning, and security services for CDL’s property portfolio, ensuring internal quality control, operational efficiency, and high standards within the group.

CDL has been a critical driver of CBM’s steady growth, providing robust corporate backing in the form of financial strength, sound governance, and a ready base of properties within its wider portfolio.

“Such a strategic anchor not only helped CBM navigate its formative years but also enabled sustained investment in people, technology, and expertise – investments that would

shape our long-term trajectory,” Mr Chiang affirms.

“Understanding CBM’s enduring success is incomplete without recognising this foundation of corporate stability and strategic support.”

Later, in 2007, the company underwent significant transformation thanks to Mr Chiang’s proactive leadership, which resulted in CBM shifting from being CDL-centric to serving a much broader client base, both locally and internationally.

The company’s growth during this period was achieved by leveraging and strengthening its core competencies, developing new growth platforms, expanding its current business footprint, and refining its internal processes.

Following this transformation, CBM achieved a number of key milestones,

including the diversification of services by implementing valueadding integrated FM solutions, project and managing agent services, car park operations, system integration, commercial laundry, and green consultancy.

In 2009, it launched CBM Solutions, one of the few accredited Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) in Singapore, to focus specifically on the latter.

CBM enjoyed considerable geographical expansion in the following years, entering into Qatar, Thailand, and Taiwan in 2009, 2013, and 2024, respectively.

The company simultaneously underwent substantial digital and technological transformations. For example, CBM has developed mobile apps for various services, including asset lifecycle tracking, and built smart in-house software solutions platforms using IoT, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud, and

“A F O C U S O N I N N O VAT I O N , S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y, A N D C U STO M E R - C E N T R I C S E RV I C E CO N T I N U E S TO U N D E R P I N B OT H O U R G R O W T H A N D R E P U TAT I O N I N T H E M A R K E T ” – R O Y C H I A N G , P R E S I D E N T A N D C E O , C B M P T E LT D

data analytics solutions.

Combined with 5G and robotics, this enables integrated, predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and more efficient FM operations.

SUSTAINABLY ORIENTATED, INNOVATIVELY MINDED Upholding a customer-centric philosophy enables CBM to create tailored, cost-effective solutions based around sustainability and innovation.

“Our solutions help both clients and companies gain a competitive edge, enhancing brand value and enabling customers to fulfil their business

objectives, which leads to improved relations and long-term success,” Mr Chiang highlights.

As such, the company’s belief in innovation and investing in the development of new and sustainable products also sets CBM apart from its competitors.

To meet the growing needs of its clients in an ever-evolving digital landscape and industry, the company has developed digiHUB, a smart property management system with a remote facility dashboard that leverages IoT, AI, machine learning (ML), analytics tools, and other technologies such as remote security surveillance systems.

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INTRODUCING DS

DS M&E Pte Ltd (DS), a company incorporated in 2014, was founded by Mr Don Siew who worked for 15 years in facility and admin with various MNC and government sectors before venturing into the facilities management business.

The company was granted OHSAS 18001 just three years after it began operations. This certificate binds the company to provide and maintain all occupational health and safety standard systems. The company also achieved a bizSAFE STAR in the same year after gaining recognition from WSH. Mr Don Siew is also a certified Green Mark Manager who possess the knowledge and skills in the operation of environmentally-friendly buildings.

MISSION

We at DS strive to deliver cost-effective and customer-centric facility management solutions to help our business partners in eco-friendly building and focus on the essentials.

VISION

The company has pioneered the concept of Facility Management Services by providing the highest standards of service to our clients, regular training of our employees, targeted oriented services, and constantly upgrading our range of services.

Electrical

Air Conditioning

Our Services

Mechanical

Plumbing

DS M&E Pte Ltd | 4035 Ang Mo Kio Industrial Park 1, Singapore 757022 T 6514 9982 | E sales@ds.com.sg

CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

Additionally, CBM has implemented various sustainable practices internally that have helped distinguish it in recent years.

“Energy-efficient technologies, like the upgrading of the Central Laundry Plant to use continuous batch washers, are one of many initiatives which not only result in a quantum leap in our productivity but also help save on resource use,” explains Mr Chiang.

CBM is also endeavouring to reduce carbon emissions by electrifying 100 percent of its internal combustion engine fleet by 2030.

“ I N A N E V E R - E V O LV I N G I N D U S T R Y, C L I E N T D E M A N D CO N T I N U E S TO G R OW A N D C H A N G E . T H U S , T H E R E I S A M A N D AT E T O C O N T I N U O U S LY E X P A N D O U R C A P A B I L I T I E S T H R O U G H T R A I N I N G A N D S TA F F DEVELOPMENT” – R O Y C H I A N G , P R E S I D E N T A N D C E O , C B M P T E LT D

This will help boost its reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers who use its services.

The company’s dedication

ALWAYS TIME FOR SAFETY Safety remains a top priority for CBM. Through its Always Time for Safety campaign, the company reinforces a vital message – ‘Think Safe, Work Safe, Go Home Safe’.

“This is championed by our leadership team down to every employee, with regular safety engagement sessions, a proactive risk management committee, and workers’ representatives upholding high safety standards,” Mr Chiang tells us.

The company also maintains rigorous workplace safety standards, supported by quarterly meetings with its Risk Management Committee and regular communication at its workplace health and safety insights and bulletins.

“These initiatives reflect our proactive approach and unwavering commitment to ensuring every employee can work in a secure and supportive environment.”

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to delivering quality service and operational excellence has led to various international accreditations, including being the first company in Singapore to achieve ISO 41001 for establishing and maintaining effective FM management systems, ISO 9001 for quality management systems, ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety management systems, ISO 14001 for environmental management systems, and many more.

Its industry-leading position is additionally emphasised by the fact CBM sits on one of the subcommittees of the Real Estate Industry Transformation Map – a government initiative launched in 2018.

“Our vision involves transforming various aspects of the integrated FM sector today for the future of FM. This includes shifting from a high reliance on manpower to reducing on-the-ground manpower and improving productivity, maximising the operational efficiency of buildings,

CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

An engineering company specialised in consultancy, design and installation of electronic car park systems and electrical works in Singapore.

10 Anson Road #10-06, International Plaza, Singapore 079903 T +(65) 68422417 corporate@elicon.com.sg

Cherishing Every Moment, Inspiring Every Connection People first . Innovation Always .

WCS Services proudly supports CBM in redefining service excellence.

Guided by “Cherishing Every Moment, Inspiring Every Connection”, we put people at the heart of every solution.

With innovation, precision, and empathy, we set the benchmark for cleaning done right.

Getting to Know Us

• We have been established since 1981, equating to more than 40 years of presence in this industry.

• Our expertise is in M&E systems, such as pump systems, compressed air, swimming pools, fire protection systems, sewage treatment plants, and body cooling units.

Our Value:

Our Clients

• We usually work with main contractors like CBM. Together with our main contractors, we provide services to clients in government agencies and commercial properties.

People First. Excellence Always.

Innovation with Heart.

Cleaning with Precision.

Our Niche

Every Moment Cherished.

Every Connection Inspired.

Phone Number:

Contact Us

+(65) 6755 7409 Website: www. wcs.sg

• We carry our own brand of pumps, so we control our own spare parks and stock.

• We also carry out our own R&D and develop our own control cards for mechanical systems.

• We work with a group of Professional Engineers to design specialised mechanical systems, based on clients’ requirements.

39 Woodlands Close, #04-20-21 Mega@Woodlands, Singapore 737856 Tel: +65 6458 6008 Fax: +65 6459 6224 ngeechin@ncepl.com.sg

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CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

and upskilling the workforce to bridge the gap between building tech and integrated FM skills,” Mr Chiang explains.

ENDURING, ESTABLISHED RELATIONSHIPS As Singapore’s integrated FM sector shifts its focus to sustainable living, prioritising the SGBMP and looking for ways to be less reliant on manpower, government bodies have begun to craft their contracts to be more comprehensive and have longer tenures.

“The latter allow us to invest in technological solutions and encourage more resilient relationships with our clients. The larger and higher value contracts also lead to a more rigorous screening of service providers with proven track records like us,” Mr Chiang adds.

The trend towards longer, more outcome-driven integrated FM contracts gives CBM a natural competitive advantage as extended contracts offer more predictable, recurrent income streams that keep the business afloat and allow

A*Star Fusionopolis

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it to invest in technology and skills development, improving overall efficiency.

Thanks to its sound fundamentals and proven history, CBM is able to more than meet the requirements detailed in government contracts and break ground in both technology and sustainability.

The company is equally able to perform to specified key performance indicators (KPIs) and retain relationships with government agencies and clients alike that have high expectations.

“Due to our strengths and wide competency range hitherto, CBM has been successful in establishing long-term relationships with many government agencies, some on total FM services and others in specific expertise,” Mr Chiang elaborates.

CBM’S SERVICES – AT A GLANCE

• CAR PARK OPERATIONS – Car park management across

• INTEGRATED FM – The synergy of all CBM’s in-house key

• SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT –

competencies, working together to deliver one-stop FM solutions.

• ENVIRONMENTAL – Professional cleaning, housekeeping, and waste management.

• ENGINEERING – Building and property maintenance, mechanical and electrical systems, air conditioning and mechanical ventilation, and professional technical consultancy.

• PROJECT MANAGEMENT – End-to-end coordination for renovation, upgrading, and retrofitting projects.

Singapore, including digital payment solutions.

Energy audits, Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance contracting, green building certification, and professional engineering consultancy.

• SECURITY – Customised security solutions for different property types, including remote surveillance, access control, and event security.

• SYSTEMS INTEGRATION – CBM subsidiary Ingensys, one of Singapore’s largest customised car park system providers, oversees the development and provision of technological systems.

• MANAGING AGENT – CBM subsidiary Empire City

• LAUNDRY AND LINEN MANAGEMENT – Another

Consultant oversees estate management, financial

CBM subsidiary, Systemic Laundry and Healthcare

administration, and regulatory compliance for

Services Pte Ltd, offers high-quality, cost-effective, and

condominiums and commercial Management

sustainable solutions built on innovation and adoption of

Corporation Strata Title properties.

the latest laundry technologies.

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CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

Car park gantry systems developed by Ingensys and located at a car park managed by CBM Parking Pte Ltd

For example, CBM provides FM services for the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), and operates car parks across the island for clients like Jurong Town Corporation (JTC) and the Housing and Development Board (HDB).

NEXT-GENERATION DEVELOPMENTS Aside from MINDEF and MHA, CBM has also been involved in undertaking other iconic government projects, including being the first managing agent to provide engineering services for facilities in Gardens by the Bay, as

JTC Space @ Tuas

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well as providing 400 housekeepers to service 6,000 rooms daily for 5,000 athletes and team officials in the world’s first Summer Youth Olympics in 2010.

The company is also involved in multiple commercial contracts spanning the private sector, particularly under its parent company.

Naturally, CBM is proud to be the FM service provider for most of CDL’s investment properties, especially its flagship building – Republic Plaza, and Singapore’s first eco mall – City Square Mall (CSM).

For the former, CBM has been hard at work driving the smart

transformation of integrated FM services, which are anchored by digiHUB to address manual routines, slow response times, and labourintensive management.

More specifically, the digiHUB dashboard leverages cutting-edge technologies that harness the power of IoT and AI for predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring, advanced analytics for data-driven decision-making, and autonomous equipment such as ECOBOT Scrubber 50s, i-mops, and SpaceVac systems for efficient cleaning. digiHUB also facilitates smart toilets through smart toilet monitoring systems. These systems ensure hygiene and operational uptime by enabling ground staff to monitor ammonia levels, toilet usage, and stocks of resources such as toilet paper, which further enable employees to anticipate maintenance needs for each loo.

On the security front, video analytics and security robots are utilised for enhanced surveillance, and FacilityOS solutions are adopted for seamless visitor management services.

“This ecosystem automates repetitive tasks, enables proactive issue resolution, and provides realtime insights into property operations.

CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

“The state-of-the-art technology that we implemented in this venture increased the efficiency of integrated FM operations and improved the productivity of staff, allowing Republic Plaza to demonstrate its attractiveness as an iconic Grade A office building for tenants in the Central Business District,” Mr Chiang details. digiHUB and its unparalleled ecosystem are also present at CSM, with an added focus on operating as an ecocentric mall.

Additionally, CBM’s project management team helped install the CDL MicroFarm – a vertical hydroponics farm – at the Singapore Sustainability Academy on Level 6 of CSM. This innovative urban farming concept not only maximises space but also supports local food production and lowers the carbon footprint associated with traditional farming and transportation.

“All these efforts help support CSM to be the place for families to shop, dine, play, and learn fun eco-facts.”

Beyond their professional skills, employees also embody the company’s core values – customerorientated, being the best, making a difference, and teamwork.

“We are proud of the diverse strengths and experiences our employees bring, which not only drive our success but also create a vibrant and supportive culture. It’s their dedication and collaborative spirit that allow us to consistently deliver quality service to our clients,” Mr Chiang smiles.

In order to ensure its staff become the best in what they do, CBM emphasises building a culture of

lifelong learning in the workplace.

This is materialised by the company’s specialist training arm, which facilitates and provides continuous learning and upskilling for all age groups, alongside the annual CBM Learning Day, where skills, knowledge, and insights are shared across the business.

“This gives everyone an opportunity to broaden their understanding of the groundbreaking technologies and methodologies the company is adopting.”

On top of this, CBM is committed to supporting employee welfare through its well-being framework, which centres around five core ideas

AT THE COMPANY’S CORE With a workforce of over 2,000 people, CBM’s people are the driving force behind its success, bringing passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence every day, no matter the challenge.

Batch washer at Systematic Laundry and Healthcare Services Pte Ltd’s Central Laundry Plant

Cube 8

Hundred Trees

H2O Residences

CBM PTE LTD ASIA PACIFIC

– positive health, cohesion, sense of security, workplace harmony, and personal growth.

In aid of these objectives, staff enjoy free annual health screenings, comprehensive health insurance plans, and wellness programmes tailored to support their physical and mental well-being.

Equally as important is the company’s dedication to a respectful and harassment-free workplace, which is reflected by its AntiHarassment at Work policy.

“By fostering an environment of cohesion and teamwork, we ensure all employees thrive without fear of harassment.”

Together, these initiatives reflect CBM’s holistic approach to ensuring every employee can flourish in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment.

Such efforts were recently recognised after the company was ranked as Singapore’s top 250 employers for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, 2025) by The Straits Times and Statista, as well as receiving the Silver award at the SkillsFuture Employer Awards.

Republic Plaza

LASTING POSITIVE CHANGE CBM’s corporate purpose involves offering both sustainable FM services to clients whilst giving back to the community through FM expertise.

“We believe in involving our people to engage in the surrounding communities so we can create lasting, positive change in the industry, society, and the world,” Mr Chiang reflects.

To do so, the company has participated in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as planting trees along Compassvale Road as part of the National Parks Board’s OneMillionTrees movement and

celebrating Earth Day by cleaning up Singaporean beaches.

CBM is also involved in two major annual CSR initiatives, namely the Home Refresh Programme and Assisi Fun Day. The former delivers pro bono, maintenance, and deep cleaning services to public housing estates for elderly and underprivileged individuals.

This collaborative effort involving the People’s Association (PA), St Andrew’s Junior College (SAJC), and local Residents’ Network (RN) fosters multi-generational and multi-stakeholder engagement in community care. With the help of the RN and PA, students from SAJC and staff from CBM can socially connect with the residents and are exposed to the challenges they face in their day-to-day living, whilst the company fulfils the home maintenance needs of these communities.

The Home Refresh Programme also gives staff at CBM the opportunity to empower residents in these communities by teaching them basic maintenance skills.

In 2026, CBM aims to expand the scale of this initiative and serve 1,000 units.

“Through the Home Refresh Programme, we foster camaraderie and an understanding of living across generations – from SAJC students and working executives to the silver generation,” Mr Chiang points out.

Elsewhere, organised annually by Assisi Hospice and CDL, the Assisi Fun Day is a charity carnival with over 100 stalls offering food, games, and entertainment.

Proceeds from coupon sales go towards funding compassionate care for terminally ill patients and supporting their families.

As the event’s facilities partner, CBM assists with booth set-up, goody bag preparation, car park marshalling, and ensuring the venue remains safe and clean throughout the day.

“CBM staff play an active role in enabling the smooth running of the event and contributing to its charitable mission,” Mr Chiang informs us.

A PREMIER PROVIDER Going into next year, CBM strives to continue working towards its vision – to be a premier provider of total FM services, offering sustainable solutions to all its clients.

“In an ever-evolving industry, client demand continues to grow and change. Thus, there is a mandate to continuously expand our capabilities through training and staff development,” Mr Chiang insights.

As CBM empowers its staff with new skills, such as improving their literacy so they can leverage AI and solve problems, the company increases efficiency to meet the business demands of prospective clients.

Additionally, CBM will focus

on developing and adopting technologies whilst exploring mergers and acquisitions to broaden its service delivery.

“This will further solidify our position as the leading total integrated FM service provider in Singapore, as well as other markets in Thailand, Qatar, and Taiwan,” he concludes.

Tel: +65 6513 0808 feedback@cbm.com.sg

www.cbm.com.sg Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 67

Horizontal Lockup (Tranditional Chinese and English)

BUILDING HOMES WITH HEART With care, integrity, and excellence at the heart of every project it undertakes, Sanfield (Management) Limited is committed to building a safer, more sustainable, and future-ready construction ecosystem for Hong Kong.

Eddie Ho, Deputy General Manager, reflects on the company’s evolution within the context of the wider industry and its goals for the future Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram Eddie Ho, Deputy General Manager

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SANFIELD (MANAGEMENT) LIMITED ASIA PACIFIC

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O

ver the past three decades, Hong Kong’s construction industry has transformed from a hub of rapid post-war urbanisation to a global leader in high-rise, highdensity construction, embracing digitalisation and sustainability.

From the 1980s-90s, the industry became defined by its innovative land reclamation and slope stabilisation techniques, enabling dense urban development and establishing Hong Kong as a global benchmark for highrise construction.

“My work on structural engineering projects during this period honed my skills in designing resilient, compact structures,” opens Eddie Ho,

Deputy General Manager of Sanfield (Management) Limited (Sanfield), the construction arm of Hong Kong’s leading property developer Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP).

The 2000s marked a shift towards iconic, larger-scale projects, during which time Ho worked on the International Commerce Centre (ICC) – a 490-metre (m) super high-rise skyscraper that pushed the boundaries of structural steelwork and vertical construction.

During the 2010s, the industry began to adopt digital tools like building information modelling (BIM) and modular integrated construction (MiC), allowing for faster, more

TIE.AI – INNOVATION BY SANFIELD CONSTRUCTION INNOVATIONS LIMITED Safety is always Sanfield’s top priority.

Recently, the company introduced Hong Kong’s first smart scaffolding monitoring system – the Tension and Tilting Inspection Engine AI System (TIE.Ai), developed by its constructiontechnology unit, Sanfield Construction Innovations Limited.

TIE.Ai leverages AI, IoT, and precision sensors to provide realtime monitoring of bamboo, metal, or mixed scaffolds, enhancing construction site safety. Key features include precise tilt detection, tension monitoring, wall tie tamper-detection sensors, fire alerts, and 24/7 mobile app reporting with 3D visualisation and BIM integration.

It delivers near-instant alerts regardless of weather or time, detecting risks invisible to manual inspection.

Sanfield will pilot TIE.Ai on its ongoing projects and offer free trials to industry partners, aiming to make the monitoring system smarter, more affordable, and widely adopted.

It is encouraging that TIE.Ai has received positive feedback from construction professionals, scaffolding experts, and workers’ groups – marking a major step forwards in Hong Kong’s construction safety innovation.

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sustainable builds.

As it entered the 2020s, SHKP – like many other companies – was faced with socioeconomic challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the property market headwinds.

However, SHKP continued to invest and Sanfield continued to participate in the construction of several landmark projects, such as the High Speed Rail West Kowloon Terminus Development, helping to fuel the city’s recovery.

Recent years have seen the industry push towards sustainability and integration with the Greater Bay Area (GBA), whilst digital transformation and workforce upskilling have also improved conditions.

“At Sanfield, we’ve prioritised lowcarbon construction methods and explored opportunities to develop more vibrant communities in the city, aligning with the nation’s long-term urban vision,” Ho confirms.

INFUSING CARE, INTEGRITY, AND EXCELLENCE As a subsidiary of SHKP, Sanfield provides a vast portfolio of construction and engineering services, including site formation, civil engineering, building construction, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems installation, and interior decoration.

It also offers landscaping, electrical and fire-prevention systems, and supplies of ready-mix and precast concrete.

Primarily serving SHKP as its construction division, Sanfield caters to residential, commercial, and comprehensive development projects.

Operating from within SHKP’s headquarters in Wan Chai, the company oversees projects both in Hong Kong and on the mainland, supporting SHKP’s real estate developments and select third-party clients with a focus on quality and safety.

SHKP’s motto, ‘Building Homes with Heart’ - also Sanfield’s - reflects its commitment to infusing care, integrity, and excellence into every project it undertakes.

“Our motto underscores our dedication to quality by prioritising precision, safety, and sustainability in construction, ensuring all projects are safe, functional, and enduring,” Ho prides.

This ethos guides Sanfield’s relationships with its clients, subcontractors, employees, and suppliers by fostering trust, collaboration, and mutual respect.

“We embody our motto through transparent communication, rigorous quality control, and communityfocused initiatives,” he adds.

For example, Sanfield’s Warm Companionship Day partnered with the Construction Charity and Caring Centre (CCFISC) at GO PARK Sai Sha, providing assistance to families affected by construction accidents and creating a mutual support platform through various engaging activities.

The event featured a rewarding beach clean-up and chances to try exhilarating new sports, empowering families to uplift one another, share their unique journeys, and rebuild their confidence as they move forwards together.

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES Over the past five years, Sanfield has been honoured to receive countless awards and recognitions for its outstanding innovation, safety standards, and quality, amongst other aspects. These include: The 22nd Construction Safety Award – part of the Occupational Safety and Health Council (OSHC) Award (2021) • Best Method Statement – Gold award • Best Presentation – Bronze award SHKP Quality Raising Suggestion Scheme (QRSS) (2021) • Gold award Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) Innovation Award (2022) • Category II: An Innovative Application of Engineering Theories – Gold award • Construction Industry Council (CIC) Construction Innovation Award (2022) • Construction Productivity Category – Merit Award for rotational bridge International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE) Project and Technology Award (2023) • Innovation in Construction – Finalist for The YOHO Hub rotational bridge launch 21st Hong Kong Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Award (2023) • Certificate of Attainment • OSH Enhancement Programme Award HKIE Structural Excellence Award (2024) • Residential and Infrastructures/Footbridge Category – Commendation Merit Award for The YOHO Hub bridges

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Its dedicated Sanfield Connect volunteer team was also on hand to provide guidance and assistance throughout the event.

The company hopes initiatives like this raise awareness for families affected by construction accidents and highlight the critical need for workplace safety.

“We deliver everything we undertake with passion, aligning with our mission to create lasting, meaningful spaces across all projects.

“By engaging in charity and community support, we promote inclusivity, enhance well-being, and contribute to vibrant, resilient neighbourhoods,” Ho reflects.

These efforts align with Sanfield’s values of responsibility and care, ensuring it creates positive impacts, strengthens trust, and nurtures environments in which people thrive, reinforcing its role as a dedicated community partner.

THE BACKBONE OF DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION As a forward-thinking contractor, Sanfield leverages BIM as a central digital framework to drive efficiency, collaboration, and smarter decisionmaking across all project phases.

“By integrating advanced technologies and data-driven workflows, we transform traditional construction phases into streamlined,

XRL PROJECT Strategically located atop the West Kowloon Terminus of the Express Rail Link (XRL), this project involves the development of premium Grade A offices, named International Gateway Centre (IGC), and a large retail podium adjacent to ICC. A complex undertaking, Sanfield’s XRL project involved major design elements: HALO RING AND WISHBONE – Four heavy steel structural systems, the total weight of each amounting to 200 tonnes, located 10 to 15m above the main roof level.

STRAND JACKS LIFTING METHOD – To avoid exceeding the tower crane’s lifting capacity, the halo ring and wishbone structural frameworks were divided into 13 modules for vertical delivery before being assembled at roof level, one by one, with the assistance of temporary steel supports.

Aluminium cladding and mechanical and electrical (M&E) systems were then erected onto the halo components and placed on the temporary steel supports. Each halo ring was lifted by eight sets of strand jacks, an operation precisely controlled by a heavy lifting computer system and monitored by registered professional structural and mechanical engineers for safety and integrity.

Compared to a traditional massive supporting falsework system, the strand jacks lifting method is safe, effective, and relatively quick with completion possible in less than one hour.

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risk-mitigated operations that enhance project delivery,” Ho outlines.

During the preconstruction and design coordination stage, Sanfield employs artificial intelligence (AI)driven clash detection technology to automate conflict resolution, thus reducing manual review time by 30 to 50 percent.

This is complemented by generative design techniques which optimise structural and MEP layouts for offsite fabrication, ensuring constructability from the earliest stages.

Additionally, 4D and 5D BIM simulations enable Sanfield to link schedules and cost data in real time, allowing teams to run scenario analyses and proactively address potential delays or budget overruns before commencing the project.

“Once on site, BIM becomes the backbone of digital construction,” he states.

Deploying augmented reality (AR) tools such as Microsoft HoloLens for layout verification and quality assurance allows the company to minimise rework, whilst Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled tracking – including radio frequency identification (RFID)-tagged materials – ensure just-in-time delivery and real-time progress monitoring.

“For precision, robotic total stations automate field layouts directly from BIM, achieving sub-centimetre accuracy and eliminating human error,” Ho details.

T+852 2591 0988 E info@kmk.com.hk Discover more at KMK.com.hk

Kwong Man Kee Group (KMK) is a well-established construction and engineering company based in Hong Kong, proudly specialising in flooring solutions.

At KMK Group, we provide a comprehensive onestop service tailored to meet our clients’ needs. From initial evaluation and quotation to construction, site management, and post-completion maintenance, our dedicated team ensures a seamless experience throughout every project phase.

Our craftsmanship during the application phase is nothing short of artistry. Each coat is meticulously

laid to perfection, harmonising functionality with aesthetic finesse. KMK’s rigorous material selection process guarantees that only high-quality coatings are employed, ensuring both longevity and visual allure.

We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to excellence. Through rigorous monitoring and quality checks, we uphold the highest standards in every aspect of our flooring solutions.

Partner with KMK Group for your next project and experience the difference that superior craftsmanship and dedicated service can make.

SANFIELD (MANAGEMENT) LIMITED ASIA PACIFIC

“ B Y I N T E G R AT I N G A D VA N C E D T E C H N O L O G I E S A N D D ATA - D R I V E N WORKFLOWS, WE TRANSFORM TRADITIONAL CONSTRUCTION P H A S E S I N T O S T R E A M L I N E D , R I S K - M I T I G AT E D O P E R AT I O N S T H AT ENHANCE PROJECT DELIVERY” – E D D I E H O, D E P U T Y G E N E R A L M A N AG E R , SA N F I E L D ( M A N AG E M E N T ) L I M I T E D

THE YOHO HUB – A STANDOUT PROJECT As the main contractor for The YOHO Hub – one of the biggest transitoriented residential developments in Hong Kong – Sanfield was tasked with engineering two link bridges to connect residential and shopping malls with public transport.

The company’s engineers developed an innovative method to overcome the engineering challenges presented by the bridges being located atop a working railway, adopting the ‘Rotational Bridge Launching Method’.

Two steel bridges were fabricated on the top of the southern podium – reducing rail disturbance – rotated 180 degrees about a turntable, before being lowered onto Yuen Long Station and the northern podium.

The steel-framed circular turntable was designed with high rigidity and assembled using state-of-the-art machining technologies in mainland China.

The bridges were resting on four ‘skis’ sliding around a stainless-steel ring track, powered by a computer-integrated, highly synchronised skidding system.

Sanfield chose to work at night to minimise disruption and allow railway operations to continue safely, promoting first-of-its-kind safety-by-design and innovation.

To maintain tight project controls throughout, Sanfield also implements digital twin technology, where live data from drones, 3D laser scans, and BIM creates an evolving model.

This, paired with predictive analytics dashboards such as Microsoft Power BI to forecast delays and resource needs, enables proactive adjustments.

Sanfield also maximises efficiency through lean methodologies off-site, including design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA) principles, which allow it to standardise modular components and cut on-site labour by 20 to 40 percent.

Integration between BIM platforms and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, meanwhile, can further streamline procurement and logistics.

For stakeholders, immersive 3D models facilitate interactive design reviews and safety training, whilst cloud-based collaboration tools keep all parties aligned with live issue tracking.

“As a result, our innovative BIM approach delivers 15 to 30 percent faster project timelines via clash-free models and prefabrication, five to 10 percent cost savings through waste reduction, and higher-quality, safer builds enabled by AR validation and digital twins,” he insights.

A DISTINCT EDGE Having made strategic investments in emerging technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and adaptability across its operations, Sanfield sets itself apart.

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SANFIELD (MANAGEMENT) LIMITED ASIA PACIFIC

The company is accredited with certifications of ISO 9001 Quality Management System, ISO 14001 Environmental Management System and OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety Management System. Genuine Treasure’s scaffolding products are tested under the loading standard by recognized laboratory centre in Hong Kong to ensure reliable quality. With sufficient supply and the provision of our professional services, we have received valuable recognition and support from our esteemed clients. Our products and services are widely applied in a variety of civil engineering / foundation project, building construction, as well as interior and exterior decoration / refurbishment work.

QUALITY SERVICE, INTEGRITY, AND TEAMWORK Genuine Treasure Access and Scaffolding Limited (HKCIC registered contractor number: R008578), is under the group of Genuine Treasure.

(852) 2131 8185

gt@g-t.com.hk

www.g-t.com.hk

During the past few years, Genuine Treasure has the honour to work with the leading corporations and participated in many major construction projects, including the MTR extension line, GuangzhouShenzhen-Hong Kong XRL (Hong Kong section), landmark hotel of 60 storeys high, transfer plate of high-rise building, interior/ exterior scaffolding platform, West Kowloon Cultural District, ceiling platform for theme park and other various types of major projects.

The company is a contractor and supplier, specialized in letting and erection/dismantle of metal scaffolding equipment. In addition, our business also includes sales of various types of construction metal formwork and aluminium formwork, hardware accessories and materials.

50+ years of innovation in Hong Kong We have contributed as a specialist contractor, subcontractor or supplier with technical assistance, to the construction and repair of structures through Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan since 1972.

Founded by Eugene Freyssinet, the inventor of post-tensioning, Freyssinet brings together an unrivalled range of civil engineering skills. From engineering to the implementation of technical solutions on site and manufacture of products, we support each project with the same principles of excellence, innovation, performance and sustainability.

T: 852 3956 2211 info@shingleungkee.com

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 75

SANFIELD’S MiC JOURNEY • Sanfield subsidiary, Orientfunds Precast Ltd (Orientfunds), embarked on its MiC journey in 2019. The following year, it received approval in principle (AIP) from the Buildings Department (BD) and was amongst the first manufacturers accredited under BD’s Concrete MiC System category.

Since then, prefabricated external wall systems, including façades, have become the company’s flagship offering.

• Exploration and innovation continue with the establishment of a strategic MiC development roadmap, guiding R&D and technological progress in three key areas aligned with public demand – a concrete MiC system, a steel-concrete hybrid MiC system, and prefabricated components such as low-density concrete partitions for wall construction.

• In early 2021, Orientfunds launched its first version of a low-density concrete partition, setting itself apart from existing market players by integrating electrical conduits and sockets into a 75 millimetre-thick wall panel.

• By 2022, three hybrid MiC demonstration modules were introduced, drawing interest from stakeholders.

• Between 2023 and 2024, a partnership with Guangzhou Construction Group led to the development of a fully fabricated, fully finished structural concrete MiC system, successfully demonstrated through the mock-up installation of a two-storey building.

• Over the course of this timeline, several proprietary technologies were developed – two already-granted patents and six more in the application pipeline.

• Looking ahead, Orientfunds remains committed to advancing MiC technologies, actively participating in public building and infrastructure projects to further its vision for a high-quality and sustainable built environment.

One key area in which such investments have been made is in the adoption of smart tower crane systems to support the growing trend of MiC. Typically, the installation of MiC units – particularly large modules – requires between four and six ground workers manually handling taglines, which is not only labour-intensive and time-consuming but also exposes workers to significant safety risks.

“To address this, we developed and deployed a remote-controlled smart tower crane system by integrating automation and remote operation capabilities,” Ho tells us.

Sanfield’s solution significantly reduces the need for manual intervention and improves installation efficiency by over 50 percent, creating a safer environment by removing workers from high-risk zones.

“This investment delivers shortterm productivity gains and gives us a distinct edge in adapting rapidly to the evolving needs of the construction industry,” he excites.

Ultimately, this undertaking aligns closely with the company’s broader goal of building a safer, more sustainable, and future-ready construction ecosystem.

ARTIST SQUARE TOWERS Situated within the West Kowloon Cultural District, the Artist Square

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SANFIELD (MANAGEMENT) LIMITED ASIA PACIFIC

Towers (AST) project comprises three commercial towers – P31, P32, and P34 – featuring a striking architectural design in which P31 and P34 are interconnected 50m above ground.

Serving as a transport gateway for the link bridge extending from Kowloon Station, the structure enhances connectivity within the local area.

However, the project has not been without its challenges. Due to the four fully operational metro railway tracks and public spaces located directly below the AST site, openair construction work was initially prohibited.

Therefore, Sanfield engineered P31 and P34 to overcome these unique spatial constraints, creating 60m-high steel mega trusses between the towers to enable work to continue.

Indeed, a steel platform above the railway serves as both a protective shield and an innovative design element. The platform is divided into 16 segments – each assembled on-site, lifted into place, and connected together – minimising disruption and requiring just an hour of public area closure per segment.

Meanwhile, a second identical steel platform supporting the mega truss acts as a safety barrier, ensuring stability during the erection.

“Through our innovative construction design, we have been

able to safeguard the link bridge and public spaces below the AST site whilst assembling mega steel trusses,” Ho surmises.

FUTURE FOCUS Dedicated to excellence in construction, innovation, and sustainability, Sanfield has strategic priorities and goals in place to help it achieve this today and in the future.

Delivering high-quality projects that align with its motto, the company seeks to ensure superior craftsmanship, safety, and customer satisfaction.

“In doing so, we can maintain our leading position in Hong Kong’s construction industry, implementing rigorous standards across all project phases,” Ho informs.

Sanfield is also dedicated to supporting Hong Kong’s and China’s carbon neutrality goals by integrating smart building technologies and sustainable practices.

“We are actively trying to reduce our environmental impact through high-productivity methods such as those demonstrated at the Global Construction Sustainability Forum.”

The company also strives to uphold the highest safety standards and optimise project timelines by advancing its processes whilst investing in its workforce and communities through participating

in programmes such as the government’s Strive and Rise, which empowers underprivileged youth.

Going forwards, Sanfield will continue to leverage SHKP’s vertical integration strategy to optimise its processes and is poised to grow its market presence and service offerings by building on its expertise.

The company will also continue to expand its services for third-party clients in Hong Kong, developing its market growth by exploring opportunities in specialised construction sectors such as commercial and infrastructure.

By adopting cutting-edge technologies, diversifying operations, and advancing its smart building technologies, Sanfield demonstrates its commitment to sustainable growth, technological advancement, and community impact.

“Aligning with SHKP’s vision, we aim to deliver exceptional projects, expand our market reach, and contribute to Hong Kong’s built environment,” Ho passionately concludes.

Tel: (+852) 2827-8111 sanfield_info@shkp.com www.sanfield.com.hk

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 77

W

ith extensive experience in delivering premium road and civil infrastructure, Raubex Construction Australia (Raubex) has established a reputation for constructing strong relationships and fostering trust.

The company’s ethos lies in making connections founded on quality 78 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

service and sincere knowledge delivery. For Raubex, it’s about people, both within and outside the organisation.

At the core of every project is the notion that civil engineering serves humanity and joins ideas.

“Raubex was incorporated in 2019 to represent Raubex Group Limited in Australia’s roads, earthworks, and

general civil engineering construction market,” introduces Hans Roux, Managing Director.

“We are one of the leading infrastructure development and construction materials supply groups in South Africa (SA), celebrating over 50 years in the industry following our establishment in 1974.”

The company is an incorporated

RAUBEX CONSTRUCTION AUSTRALIA ASIA PACIFIC

CONSTRUCTING LASTING CONNECTIONS Proudly offering urban, regional, and remote infrastructure solutions that join communities and change lives, Raubex Construction Australia is an industry leader. Hans Roux, Managing Director, shares more about the company’s current endeavours and plans for a confidently built future Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Ryan Gray

branch of its listed parent entity, with the majority owned by Raubex Group Limited and minor shareholdings held by local management in Australia.

Operating primarily across Western Australia (WA), Raubex currently employs around 140 staff and specialises in road construction and earthworks, the construction of

landfills and tailings dams, as well as the installation of services and utilities.

“Australia is such a privileged country and there always seems to be enough to do in our industry – particularly in WA with its wealth of mining resources,” details Roux.

“It is an exciting place from an activity point of view, albeit not

always the case with civil engineering projects. But make no mistake, it certainly comes with its challenges.”

Nonetheless, Australia’s construction industry remains buoyant despite the cyclical nature of mining in WA, and there seems to be a constant and healthy flow of midsized construction projects.

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CONNECTIONS FOUNDED ON QUALITY SERVICE As a registered civil engineer with 35 years of experience, Roux has proven his ability to deliver high-end results for clients and stakeholders alike, gaining notable project and contract management experience from leading various projects.

“I always enjoyed the outdoors as a child and participated in many sports

PLEASE TELL US MORE ABOUT RAUBEX’S LEGACY TO DATE AND HOW THIS WILL BE ENHANCED IN THE FUTURE?

– these interests, along with being the son of a scientist and physicist, fostered an interest in STEM subjects from a young age,” he insights.

As a teenager, this led Roux to investigate career opportunities that were not deskbound, which ultimately took him down the civil engineering and construction pathway.

“At university, I managed to secure a scholarship from a construction company, securing the choice between design consulting and construction for me. As such, I have always been involved in the civil engineering and infrastructure construction industry and am in the third decade of this challenging yet rewarding game.”

Roux has utilised his industry expertise to ensure Raubex builds

Hans Roux, Managing Director: “Raubex is known as a professional group of balanced and pragmatic professionals, dedicating energy and time to the daily responsibilities and duties of the construction and infrastructure environment.

“We strive to carry this approach into the future of our company, all the while building new relationships and nurturing existing ones.”

Thomas Road Roundabouts, Perth, WA

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relationships underpinned by sound civil engineering resources and initiatives that are completed on time and within budget with a direct approach.

Meanwhile, the company differentiates itself by prioritising relationship building, which it highlights as a key component to business success, growth, and development. Equally, it believes in a hands-on approach when it comes to executing projects whilst striving to develop an atmosphere of accountability and pride, with the constant support of the management team.

“We believe in people and relationships, supported by solid technological initiatives,” prides Roux.

“We are not afraid to do the work and get our hands dirty.”

www.civitest.com.au

View of the cubic concrete samples of the tensile or flexural testing

Analysis of soil samples in laboratory

Density of soil in place by the sand-cone

Concrete Slump Test

Civitest WA Pty Ltd – Over 40 Years of Excellence in Construction Materials Testing

F

or more than four decades, Civitest WA Pty Ltd has been a trusted name in Western Australia’s construction and civil engineering industries. With a proud history dating back over 40 years, we have built a solid reputation for delivering accurate, reliable, and timely construction materials testing services across the state. From regional infrastructure projects to large-scale commercial developments, Civitest WA has remained at the forefront of quality assurance in materials testing.

Based in Western Australia (WA), we specialise in the testing and analysis of construction materials including soils, aggregates, and concrete. Our services support engineers, contractors, government departments, and developers in ensuring their projects meet regulatory standards, perform to specifications, and stand the test of time.

NDM Testing

At Civitest WA, quality is more than a commitment—it’s a culture. We operate fully equipped laboratories and deploy skilled technicians both in the field and in-house to perform a wide range of geotechnical and materials testing services. Whether you’re pouring a concrete slab, compacting road base, or assessing site suitability, our team ensures you get accurate data that enables confident decision-making and compliance with Australian Standards.

We pride ourselves on our extensive experience in the use of nuclear density gauges for compaction control and moisture content analysis. Our strict safety protocols, licensing requirements, and technical expertise allow us to conduct this testing efficiently, accurately, and safely across construction sites throughout WA. What sets Civitest WA apart is our enduring relationships with clients, many of whom have relied on our services for decades. We understand the challenges of construction in Western Australia’s diverse landscapes—from the coastal plains to the rugged interior—and we adapt our methods and service delivery to meet local conditions and project needs.

We are proud to support a wide range of projects including roads, bridges, airports, mining infrastructure, subdivisions, and commercial developments. Our clients include major

contractors, local governments, and engineering consultants who value our commitment to integrity, precision, and responsiveness.

With over 40 years of continual operation, our success is built on a foundation of technical excellence, customer service, and a deep understanding of the construction industry. Our experienced team is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of testing and reporting, ensuring your project meets both structural and environmental benchmarks.

When you choose Civitest WA Pty Ltd, you’re choosing a partner with proven expertise, modern equipment, and a reputation for reliability. We are fully NATA accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and compliant with all relevant industry regulations and safety standards, and continue to invest in training and technology to stay ahead in a competitive and evolving industry.

Whether you require laboratory testing, field compaction control, or technical consultancy, Civitest WA is here to support your project from the ground up. Trust the experts who have been delivering quality results for over 40 years.

Civitest WA Pty Ltd – The foundation of your success.

RAUBEX CONSTRUCTION AUSTRALIA ASIA PACIFIC

Onslow Class IV Landfill project

SERVING HUMANITY AND JOINING IDEAS Raubex has completed many successful projects over the course of its residency in WA. Throughout these initiatives, it prioritises sustainability as an omnipotent force that supports all decisions.

Specifically, the company ensures it leaves as little ecologically detrimental impact as possible with utmost compliance.

Some of the projects include the Onslow Class IV Landfill project, the Thomas Road Roundabouts, the City of Karratha’s 7 Mile Waste Facility’s landfill capping works, the Cooperative Bulk Handling (CBH) Shark Lake – Grain Storage Facility expansion, and the McPhee Creek 82 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

Section 2A – Roadworks of the Marble Bar Road Upgrade.

For the highly specified Onslow Class IV Landfill project, Raubex worked with the Shire of Ashburton in Northwestern Australia’s Pilbara region, which comprised the construction of a Class IV landfill

cell and other waste management infrastructure.

“This was important to us as it was a greenfield project and set us up in the landfill space in Australia,” expands Roux.

The Thomas Road Roundabouts in Perth, WA, comprise works at two separate intersections. Intersection 1 is the construction of an upgrade at Kargotich Road, whilst Intersection 2 is an upgrade at Nicholson Road, which primarily consists of a new dual lane and heavy vehicle compliant roundabout.

“This job was important to us as we perform a significant amount of work for the client, Main Roads Western Australia (MRWA), within the Perth metropolitan area,” details Roux.

Classic Hire is a Western Australian-owned and family-run business which began operations from our Hamilton Hill branch in 1993. Since then we have grown to become one of Perth’s largest hire companies. With seven outlets in Perth’s metropolitan area, including Hamilton Hill, Morley, Kelmscott, Maddington, Cockburn Central, Wangara, and Site Services Kewdale.

Our extensive range of hire equipment is modern, reliable, well maintained and includes: • Access equipment • Air compressors • Chain blocks • Compactors • Concrete equipment • Drills and jackhammers • Earth movers • Excavators • Fans • Generators • Grinders • Jacks • Ladders • Lawn and garden

• Lighting • Mobile scaffold • Nail guns • Pumps • Rollers • Sanders • Saws • Scaffolding • Spray equipment • Tile cutters • Trailers • Water blasters • Waterfilled barriers • Welders

With over 25 years of operations, our team has a broad range of skills and knowledge, including expertise in access equipment, traffic management, site accommodation services, landscaping, compaction, earthmoving and industrial products.

Our staff are well trained and motivated to service your needs around the clock. You can rely on us to provide you with reliable equipment, where you want it and when you require it. Classic equipment, classic price gets the job done on time and on budget every time!

www.classichire.net.au

RAUBEX CONSTRUCTION AUSTRALIA ASIA PACIFIC

Karratha landfill capping works

The Karratha landfill capping works project comprised the closure and capping of works at the 7 Mile Waste Facility in Pilbara and is important to Raubex as it bolsters the company’s experience and capacity for landfill construction and similar works in Australia.

For the CBH Shark Lake – Grain Storage Facility expansion, the works included the construction of pavement hardstands, roadworks, and electrical and mechanical systems to accommodate CBH’s open bulkheads for grain storage.

It was a significant project for the company as CBH remains an important client, and the scope of the works suits Raubex’s abilities perfectly.

Finally, for the McPhee Creek section 2A – Roadworks, this contract spans the construction of a challenging section of the MRWA Public Road South (Section 2A) for the McPhee Creek Iron Ore project near Nullagine.

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CBH Shark Lake

“ W E A R E N OT A F R A I D TO D O T H E WO R K A N D GET OUR HANDS DIRTY” – H A N S R O UX , M A N AG I N G D I R E C TO R , R AU B E X CO N ST R U C T I O N AU ST R A L I A

Leading the Way in Environmental Containment Kenviro is a specialist Geomembrane and Geosynthetics supply and installation company with decades of experience in Environmental Containment (Landfill / TSF / Dams / Water Storages / Evaporation Ponds). From our head office and factory in Perth WA, we deliver our services across Australia. With the ability to provide a personalised service, experienced and highly skilled installation teams, we ensure all engineered containment facilities are constructed to the highest standards, with quality workmanship and safe project delivery every time..

Contact us: 08 6507 5009 admin@kenviro.com.au kenviro.com.au

We work across a range of sectors, including: • Mining and resource extraction • Landfill construction and capping • Water containment and reservoir lining • Industrial waste and wastewater containment • Secondary containment for fuel and chemical storage Every project we undertake aligns with rigorous Environmental management protocols, ensuring containment systems are engineered, installed, and tested to meet or exceed regulatory and industry benchmarks.

“ W E B E L I E V E I N P E O P L E A N D R E L AT I O N S H I P S , S U P P O R T E D B Y S O L I D T E C H N O L O G I C A L I N I T I AT I V E S ” – H A N S R O UX , M A N AG I N G D I R E C TO R , R AU B E X CO N ST R U C T I O N AU ST R A L I A

RAUBEX’S VISION Raubex strives to become a civil engineering contracting market leader through the development of relationships with its clients and employees, whilst delivering a highquality product, ultimately leading to long-term growth and sustainability for all shareholders.

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“MRWA remains a crucial client to us, and the work for this project comprised the full-width construction of a surfaced road in a remote area, which is at the core of what we do,” asserts Roux.

Aside from projects, Raubex is embarking upon key investments.

“We keep developing our company culture and employee growth, guiding and training the team within a manageablesized company in the Australian construction environment, where risk apportionment remains a

challenging aspect of the game,” insights Roux.

A LEGACY OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND PRIDE Raubex prides itself on being comprised of highly skilled civil engineers, technical, and administrative individuals who grow with the company and work to establish a legacy of accountability and pride.

The company recognises the critical importance of its employees in maintaining its legacy and daily operations that allow it to find success.

RAUBEX CONSTRUCTION AUSTRALIA ASIA PACIFIC

“We aim to empower our staff by recognising the contributions they make, ensuring not to micromanage them but rather trusting and supporting their varied skills and abilities within a framework of shared accountability,” dictates Roux.

“With that comes a system of trust, reward, and acknowledgement, which empowers and motivates.”

Equally, Raubex participates in corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices by regularly supporting charities in their ventures alongside employee participation in associated

events. Specifically, the company has a significant focus on mental health awareness initiatives.

Looking ahead, the company’s key focus remains on being profitable whilst delivering quality projects and products. It aims to avoid getting involved in negative contracting and does so by being selective about what and who it works with.

“Ultimately, we aim to give back to our communities and the people we are building for, as well as looking after our employees who form part of that community,” concludes Roux.

Tel: +61 (0) 8 6350 0600 info@raubex.au

www.raubex.com.au

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O U T- O F -T H I S -WO R P R OJ E C T S

B

ased in Texas – the Lone Star State – with a focus on building thriving places through trusting relationships, Galaxy Builders (Galaxy) is an industry leader when it comes to the ever-crucial 88 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

construction sector.

Since last speaking to the company in May 2024, Galaxy remains hyperfocused on multifamily construction and building new properties from the ground up. However, it has

recently expanded its services with a renovation division, growing its data technology department, and launching a brand-new sister company – Galaxy Custom Pools.

“We build all over Texas, but mainly

GALAXY BUILDERS NORTH AMERICA

LD

As one of Texas’ leading general contracting firms, Galaxy Builders has built a reputation for excellence and delivery of topof-the-line projects. We revisit the award-winning company with Alan Gonzales, Executive Director of Business Development Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Sam Warner

The Ovilla pool and cabana

in the tri-city corridor and Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, down to San Antonio, and over to Houston,” introduces Alan Gonzales, Executive Director of Business Development.

“Our clients are developers who

look for an experienced value-add general contractor.”

The company is home to 108 employees whose positions range from in-office to field staff and project management to superintendents.

Currently, Galaxy is bidding and pricing more contracts than ever before, with a robust pipeline of projects and a steadfast belief that the future is bright for both the company and Texas as job growth continues to Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 89

GALAXY BUILDERS NORTH AMERICA

soar throughout the state, specifically in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.

“New construction starts are slow for the year, and there are external market factors for this – high interest rates being one of the primary components. However, I look at this as the calm before the storm,” details Gonzales.

“Galaxy remains as excited as ever to be in the multifamily construction space.”

The company’s core values are at the heart of every decision it makes, with loyalty being one of the most important. As such, Galaxy remains loyal to its staff and will do everything possible to retain key players as it looks forward to an exciting future with several closings planned for Q4 2025 and Q1 2026.

UNMATCHED EXPERTISE Gonzales graduated with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and international business from Baylor University, Texas, and has spent his career specializing in developing and nurturing relationships and driving new business initiatives.

In his current position, his focus remains on Galaxy’s clients, strategic planning, and collaboration to provide unmatched service to the team and local communities.

Gonzales works to differentiate the company from the competition through its five unique traits, which comprise being Texas-proud, having decades of experience with a forwardthinking mindset, establishing a culture of building people, being an invested general contractor, and conducting operational excellence through an entrepreneurial operating system (EOS).

PLEASE TELL US MORE ABOUT GALAXY’S SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS AND HOW IMPORTANT THESE RELATIONSHIPS ARE TO THE SUCCESS OF YOUR BUSINESS? Alan Gonzales, Executive Director of Business Development: “With the threats of tariffs on several products and materials we use in multifamily construction, our relationships with trade partners and suppliers are more important than ever.

“They are crucial to the success of our business. Luckily, we have over 34 years of experience in the Texas market, and our relationships run deep to find solutions to get projects within budget and built on time. While there are several subcontractors throughout Texas, we consider those we work with to be our trade partners.

“We started this year with a trade partner appreciation event where we gave a state of the company address, had a special guest speaker, provided lunch, and paid for a round of golf. The reason we did this was to let our partners know how important they are to the success of Galaxy and how much we appreciate them.”

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“As a Texas-based and owned general contractor, Galaxy brings unmatched regional expertise, deeprooted relationships, and a passion for building stronger communities across the Lone Star State. We understand the local landscape because it is our own backyard,” expands Gonzales.

With over 34 years of proven success, the company combines historical knowledge with cutting-edge technology and a data-driven approach to deliver consistent results across both affordable and market-rate housing.

This includes 75 US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-financed projects, highlighting the company’s ability to combine its vast experience with an innovative mindset.

When it comes to Galaxy’s culture of building people, it is proud to be considered a top workplace in San Antonio.

The Ovilla aerial view

The Ovilla clubhouse interior

Cambrian East Riverside

“GALAXY REMAINS AS E XC I T E D AS E V E R TO B E I N T H E M U LT I FA M I LY CONSTRUCTION S PAC E ” – ALAN GONZALES, EXECUTIVE D I R E C TO R O F B U S I N E SS D E V E L O P M E N T, G A L A X Y B U I L D E R S

“This reflects our family-like atmosphere, strong internal values, and a work hard, play hard culture which goes beyond the office and jobsite to impact the community. At Galaxy, our people and community are the foundation of our success!” prides Gonzales.

To emphasize its position as an invested general contractor, the company takes a value-added

approach, aligning with its clients’ goals to create a lasting impact in the communities it serves.

Finally, in terms of operational excellence through EOS, Galaxy has built a process that ensures accountability, transparency, and efficiency at every level.

“We don’t just build communities; we have built a proven process,” asserts Gonzales.

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Caliza Ridge clubhouse exterior

Caliza at The Loop built-to-rent townhomes

BUILDING OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE Recently, Galaxy completed Caliza Ridge in San Antonio – a luxury apartment complex that includes a 12,000+ square foot clubhouse with amenities such as a fitness center, meeting rooms, resort-style pool, and more.

Additionally, the company has nearly completed Leon Creek Flats, a 308 multifamily gated community that serves the affordable housing needs of San Antonio. This complex was designed for comfort and convenience and boasts a plethora of family-friendly amenities without the luxury price tag.

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Projects aside, Galaxy’s new 2025 Galaxy Renovation division was recently initiated.

“As new projects have slowed, we have several clients who have properties for long-term holds of 15 years or more. These locations require renovation over time, and we can now be there for those specific needs,” expands Gonzales.

Equally, the company’s new venture – Galaxy Custom Pools – was created in 2025 out of necessity, not just to add another revenue source.

With most pool companies focusing on residential contracts, Galaxy’s multifamily pool projects began to fall behind. Today, the projects that the custom pool division have been awarded are already ahead of schedule and under budget, showcasing its multifaceted abilities.

For the company, giving back to the communities it serves has always been a significant initiative, hence why it recently began its Community Impact Group (CIG).

Caliza Ridge clubhouse interior

“We created CIG to ensure we are doing everything we can with the staff and resources we have,” details Gonzales.

“Our largest philanthropy effort to date has gone to the American Heart Association (AHA). This year, we will hold our 10th Annual Arun Verma Golf Tournament and fundraiser for this cause. To date, we have helped raise over $500,000 for AHA as our founder, Arun Verma, sadly passed away from heart disease.”

Galaxy holds this tournament in Verma’s honor to help raise funds and awareness for a large community that is impacted.

GALAXY BUILDERS NORTH AMERICA

Bristol at Somerset

A CULTURE OF CONTINUAL GROWTH Galaxy uses a proven process to achieve success in all its endeavors, which includes preconstruction, project pulse, monthly meetings, 90-minute meetings, and closeout, allowing the company to achieve its goal of building thriving places through trusting relationships.

“This process is included with every proposal. It explains what we offer and how we take a project all the way through to conclusion,” denotes Gonzales.

“It is part of our guarantee. There may be problems, but we will always find a solution.”

GALAXY CORE VALUES • LOYALTY • GENUINE CARE • PROFESSIONAL • ACCOUNTABILITY • PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT • AUTHENTICITY • UNITY AND POSITIVE SPIRIT

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Bristol at Somerset clubhouse interior

Parallel to the company’s dedication to its clients, Galaxy recognizes the crucial impact its staff have on the continued success of the business and values their effort on a daily basis.

The staff’s loyalty to the company is evident in the longevity of their tenure and Galaxy being named the top place to work in San Antonio for nine years in a row.

“We have staff who have been here for over three decades. We also have ‘state of the company’ meetings every quarter, where all field and office staff attend to get an update on how we are doing as a company and where we plan on going in the next quarter,” concludes Gonzales.

This allows for transparency and a day of fun away from the normal workday. Galaxy awards ‘employees of the quarter’ and has an end-of-year holiday party where it recognizes ‘office and field staff of the year’, all of which takes place in front of the entire company.

This cements Galaxy’s dedication toward an innovative, supportive, and successful workplace environment.

Tel: +1 (210) 493-0550 alang@galaxybuilders.com

www.galaxybuilders.com

GALAXY BUILDERS NORTH AMERICA

Multi-Family and Commercial Roofing in Texas When it comes to commercial roofing in Texas, JG Roofing Company ATX, LLC is family-owned and delivers unmatched quality, reliability, and expertise.

Our team specializes in flat roofs, pavers, wall panels, and metal and shingle roofing systems that are tailored to your business needs.

We understand that your roof is more than just protection - it’s an investment. That’s why we use premium materials and back our work with industry-leading warranties.

From multifamily to commercial property, we’ve got Texas covered.

Office: 512-582-0258

Founded on strong values of quality, trust, and reliability.

Palacios Plumbing LLC delivers professional plumbing services across Texas.

WE ARE PROUD PARTNERS OF GALAXY BUILDERS Palaciosplumbing210@gmail.com (210)-313-2908

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 95

B U I LT O N G R I T. D E F I N E D BY L E G AC Y. D R I V E N BY V I S I O N .

Honoring the legacy that has defined it for over 75 years, L&L Companies comprises four union construction firms serving the New York metropolitan area and the surrounding Northeast US. Catherine Moss, CEO and Majority Owner, tells us more about the organization’s proud history and progressive vision for the future Catherine Moss, CEO and Majority Owner

Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Michael Sommerfield

Construction is the best industry in the world. It’s where tough people build beautiful things.”

The passion expressed by Catherine Moss, CEO and Majority Owner of L&L Companies (L&L), not only represents her feelings towards the industry but also the outlook that the organization displays in its daily practices and business endeavors.

Founded in 1949 by Willie Levine, 96 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

L&L has proudly grown through generations of leadership and a long-standing commitment to quality, reliability, and integrity.

Currently, the organization is under the majority ownership and leadership of Moss, who works in collaboration with the Levine family to ensure the continuity of values and expertise while positioning L&L for future growth, innovation, and expanded impact across the industry.

Moss entered the construction field by sheer determination – and admittedly, a little bit of luck.

“I didn’t have family in the business or a clear path laid out for me. I put myself through college, worked as a waitress and barback, and eventually found myself on a job site. That’s when it clicked. Construction had grit, purpose, and a sense of camaraderie I’d never experienced before,” she details.

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Over the past two decades, she has held nearly every role – from Site Superintendent to Project Executive to Senior Vice President. Today, Moss proudly leads not just with experience, but with a deep belief in what’s possible when integrity and hard work are one’s compass.

QUALITY AND INTEGRITY L&L is a group of four union construction firms serving the five boroughs, the greater New York metropolitan area, and the Northeast US. It provides specialty services in architectural coatings, bridge painting, flooring systems, tile and stone installation, and heavy civil infrastructure.

The organization’s clients include public agencies like the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and Department of Transportation (DOT), alongside leading general contractors, developers, private owners, and institutions.

“With over 300 employees across our companies, we’re known not just for the quality of our work – but the integrity behind it,” details Moss.

L&L remains focused on delivering exceptional craftsmanship with reliability and a people-first approach, all while evolving with advancements in technology and construction practices that honor the legacy that has defined it for over seven decades.

The four companies that comprise the organization include L&L Painting Co., Inc., L&L Stone & Tile, LLC, L&L Specialty Flooring, LLC, and VMR Civil, LLC. “When I stepped into ownership, my goal wasn’t to change what made L&L great – it was to carry it forward, strengthen it, and position it for the next 75 years. With Ross, Michael, and Marni Levine as partners, we’ve kept the heart of L&L intact while modernizing every corner of the business,” expands Moss.

The company provides top-quality surface projects, on schedule and 98 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

is strong. We view suppliers and subcontractors as strategic allies.

“We lead with transparency, clear

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN STRATEGY AND VENDOR RELATIONSHIPS? Catherine Moss, CEO and Majority Owner: “Our vendor and

communication, and fair terms, and we build loyalty over the long term.

That mutual respect and very long relationship tenure is what gets us through challenges like tight schedules, material shortages, or price volatility.

subcontractor relationships are the

“At the end of the day, it comes down

backbone of what we do. In this

to trust. When our partners know we

industry, you can only deliver at the

stand behind our word, they stand

highest level if every link in the chain

with us – and together we deliver.”

“WE’VE NEVER BEEN INTERESTED IN BEING THE BIGGEST – WE’RE FOCUSED ON BEING T H E B E S T. T H AT M E A N S S H O W I N G U P W I T H P R E C I S I O N , B E I N G T R A N S PA R E N T W I T H O U R C L I E N TS , A N D N E V E R SAC R I F I C I N G INTEGRITY FOR PROFIT” – C AT H E R I N E M O S S , C E O A N D M A J O R I T Y O W N E R , L & L C O M P A N I E S

at reasonable prices, taking pride in its ability to offer reliable services to every single customer and client without sacrificing workmanship.

For long-lasting results, quality installation, and superior tile and stone products, there is L&L Stone & Tile, LLC, which offers tile installation, interior and exterior stone, and countertops.

“L&L Stone & Tile, LLC, is a specialty subsect in large-scale tile and stone

installations for civic, healthcare, and commercial environments,” explains Moss.

The organization’s flooring division – L&L Specialty Flooring, LLC – provides expert service in epoxy, methyl methacrylate (MMA), and other niche flooring systems with a reputation for precision and code compliance.

Finally, VMR Civil, LLC is all about people, infrastructure, and progress,

dedicated to delivering quality projects in the safest and most innovative ways while remaining environmentally responsible.

“VMR Civil, LLC is our civil arm, performing concrete, drainage, site utilities, and heavy infrastructure work – both as a sub and a primary contractor,” summarizes Moss.

“Each company operates with the same set of values – do it right, do it safely, and do it with pride.”

LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE L&L differentiates itself from the competition through its most important priorities – people, principles, and performance.

“We’ve never been interested in being the biggest – we’re focused on being the best. That means showing up with precision, being transparent with our clients, and never sacrificing integrity for profit,” prides Moss.

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The Intersection of Style and Quality The best paint, the best advice, and the best service, Willis Paints offers the most refined and design-forward paint and finish lines available in the current market

As Benjamin Moore’s largest independent dealer and a trusted name in the New York metropolitan area, PaintPlaceNY is proud to be a family-owned and operated business – bringing tradition, trust, and expertise to every one of our locations.

Willis Paints and Design Center (Willis Paints) is part of the greater PaintPlaceNY organization as one of its eight locations.

It has been in business for over 35 years, helping to provide Long Island with affordable and luxurious coatings that make our neighborhoods unique, beautiful, and desirable.

As the go-to source for contractors, designers, developers, and homeowners, you can find us at the intersection of style and quality. We couple the premium experience you expect from Benjamin Moore – a household name in all things paint – with our huge design center where we have the latest in home fashions on display.

Willis Paints is proud to be the primary supplier of Benjamin Moore to L&L Companies, supporting the business from start to finish on all its projects across the New York area. We are enthused by our partnership with L&L Companies and the important part we play in its operations.

Proven Expertise – Supplying New York’s Most Iconic Projects We have been supporting L&L Painting Co., Inc. (L&L Painting) throughout myriad high-profile projects, including the likes of TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport, 3ELEVEN at 601 West 29th Street, Waldorf Astoria, Hard Rock Hotel New York, The Spiral at 66 Hudson Boulevard (Hudson Yards Project), The Greenwich at 125 Greenwich Street, and so many more.

Our decades-long partnership with L&L Painting has resulted in projects that push the boundaries of luxury and innovation.

Willis Paints is also a preferred coatings partner for major real estate and construction ventures throughout New York. We are there for our clients

from submittals to final delivery of paint, preparing drawdowns for general contractors and architects.

Willis Paints also takes the guesswork out of getting your look right with our state-of-the-art exact colourmatching service, where our consultants help you tailor the look to your room through custommatched colors. Equally, we have a fleet of over 30 vehicles, which make daily deliveries from Montauk to Westchester County and beyond, ensuring prompt and timely service to get the job done.

They are trained to help you make the best decision based on the environment, direct lighting, as well as factors such as ambient lighting depending on outside exposure.

Interior Design and Home Luxury – Long Island’s Design Destination

Our expansive showroom in Roslyn Heights offers services such as Hunter Douglas window treatments, including motorized options, which bring the future to your home.

Our design experts can work with you to get the perfect look for your windows. Whether you’re starting with a simple shade or looking to fit an entire room with blinds and layered custom drapes, we’re ready to help you with your project – no matter the size.

We also offer designer wallcoverings from brands such as Phillip Jeffries, Thibaut, and more, alongside custom reupholstery, fabrics, and design consultation services that allow you to update your current aesthetic. Willis Paints also provides inhouse design consultations with industry experts to ensure the service we provide meets the results of your dreams.

As Long Island’s premier destination for interior design resources, we have hundreds of wallpaper, window treatment, and fabric sample books to choose from – making your home the epitome of luxury.

Our vast collection of fine wallpaper, wall coverings, papers, and fabrics includes designs guaranteed to please any décor vision. From English countryside to cutting-edge contemporary, our experts are on-hand to guide you through selecting colors,

textures, and patterns to breathe new life into your interior spaces and create unique, beautiful looks to enjoy for years to come.

Willis Paints carries premium products at competitive prices; however, more than just that – we have something you can’t buy, world-class paint advice built from decades of experience, staff who love what they do, and the latest products and techniques.

No matter what trend you’re looking to add to your home, we will help you make it a reality. From high mirror glass looks to simple feature walls, we assist you not only with the products and tools, but also with the knowledge to nail your project and achieve your dreams.

Specialty Finishes and Exclusive Brands

Willis Paints offers the most refined and design-forward paint and finish lines available today.

Some of our exclusive offerings include a high-end Portola Paints dealer with lime wash and Roman clay, a premier Meoded decorative finishes dealer with various Venetian plasters and metallic finishes, and Faux Effect products.

Stop by our Long Island shop for Fine Paints of Europe, who offer high-end oil and water-based coatings, most famous for their Hollandlac Brilliant 98 paint. This is an oil-based high gloss used for door moldings and trim; however, it can transform an entire room into a stunning mirrored look.

As an authorized Farrow & Ball dealer – a worldrenowned paint and wallpaper manufacturer – we have the ability to provide paint with a truly impressive and unique finish. Specifically, Dead Flat is a very low-sheen product that is washable and scuff-resistant, making it perfect for long-term function. It is also extremely ecofriendly, so much so that you can paint toys with many of them and feel confident they are safe for your family.

With innovative and competitively priced products, knowledgeable paint and home décor experts, and fast service from a vast inventory across our eight locations, we are here for whatever New Yorkers demand.

Our full-time staff pride themselves on customer service you’ll struggle to find elsewhere.

At Willis Paints, we are not just a paint place – we’re the place for home fashions.

PaintPlaceNY’s offerings at a glance • Benjamin Moore paints • Paint and cleaning supplies • Specialty paint • Hardware and supplies • Hand and power tools

www.paintplaceny.com

“EVERY DECISION WE MAKE, FROM FIELD T O O L S T O F I N A N C I A L S T R AT E G Y, I S R O O T E D I N P R O T E C T I N G W H AT W E ’ V E B U I LT A N D ENSURING IT THRIVES FOR THE NEXT 75 YEARS” – C AT H E R I N E M O S S , C E O A N D M A J O R I T Y O W N E R , L & L C O M P A N I E S

As such, the organization invests in its craft, teams, and the systems that make its delivery consistent and excellent. Most importantly, it leads with a people-first mindset, treating its employees like stakeholders, not just staff.

Furthermore, L&L boasts a history of leadership and commitment to quality, reliability, and integrity. Built on family values, including loyalty, fairness, and pride in its accomplishments, the Levine family has carried that legacy for generations.

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“When I stepped into ownership, it wasn’t a break from that – it was an extension of it. Together, we’ve fortified what made L&L great while modernizing it for the future. Every decision we make, from field tools to financial strategy, is rooted in protecting what we’ve built and ensuring it thrives for the next 75 years,” insights Moss.

For L&L, being woman-owned and led is more than a certification – it’s a responsibility. It’s about representation, perspective,

and proving that leadership in construction can look different and still deliver exceptional results.

Moss has been the only woman in the room more times than she could count, but has led with confidence, experience, and a vision that leaves room for others. She wants women to see themselves in this industry – in boots, in hard hats, in boardrooms.

Through C-Suite State of Mind and Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW), L&L is creating career pipelines for tradeswomen, mentoring the next generation of executives, and changing what leadership looks like in the industry.

“When more voices are included, the work gets better – and so do our cities,” Moss asserts.

BREAKING BARRIERS L&L has participated in a plethora of exciting projects, such as its work on the Waldorf Astoria New York restoration, several MTA projects, and

L&L COMPANIES NORTH AMERICA

One partner. Every spec of the way.™ Scan to get started today. ©2025 The Sherwin-Williams Company

mission-critical government jobs.

“But it’s not just about what we build – it’s how we manage it,” emphasizes Moss.

The organization has implemented Bid Board Pro Bid Management Software to streamline estimating, Microsoft Power BI for live dashboards, and Microsoft 365 for collaborative, cloud-based operations. Equally, it is exploring artificial intelligence (AI) tools to improve compliance tracking, contract management, and jobsite safety – always to support, not replace, human expertise.

Additionally, empowering and recognizing its team members is of the utmost importance to L&L. “I believe leadership is about seeing people – their effort, ideas, and growth. We mentor from within, promote talent based on performance, and make sure people are equipped with the right tools and information,” informs Moss.

“Whether it’s at the Waldorf Astoria

New York job, watching our paper hangars hang grasscloth in ornate hallways with the same care as restoring fine art, or climbing down 40 feet (ft) on a VMR Civil site into the guts of an MTA substation in Brooklyn, knowing the work we are doing is essential to keeping the city moving is empowering.”

At JFK International Airport, the Stone & Tile team maneuvered massive stone panels, nearly 40ft in the air, with millimeter precision. Every piece was carefully prepared and installed in spaces where there was no room for error. Travelers from around the world will pass through that terminal for decades, never knowing the hours of planning, problemsolving, and sheer determination it took to make it perfect – but those at L&L will know.

“And there are the quieter moments – walking a job site upstate for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in the August heat

and seeing our crews push through the day, or getting a call from a client saying, “your team saved us on this one”.

Those are the moments that tell me we’re doing it right,” she continues.

As L&L continues to look toward another 75 years of success, it is focused on sustainable growth, operational visibility, and expanding its public sector footprint.

“We’re also investing in leadership development internally – ensuring our next generation of foremen, supers, and executives are ready to step up.

Across the board, we’re modernizing our systems while staying grounded in what works,” Moss positively concludes.

Ph: (516) 349-1900 info@llpaint.com

www.llpaint.com

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EXECUTING A BOLD CONSTRUCTION VISION

MBA Energy & Industrial has created a team of experienced designers, engineers, superintendents, and managers to help streamline construction processes and invigorate the industry. We hear more about the burgeoning business from CEO, Damian Rockett Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Scarlett Burke

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MBA ENERGY & INDUSTRIAL NORTH AMERICA

T

he most recent and transformative evolution of the US construction industry has seen a heavy shift toward energy production.

As such, the last decade has witnessed a growing focus on enabling the energy transition, including addressing renewables such as wind, solar, hydrogen, and carbon capture, while oil and gas continues to be a foundational resource.

Meanwhile, the rise in data centers and manufacturing onshoring has taxed the current energy grid, and many businesses are now seeing a heavy push to utilize a combination of natural gas and nuclear power.

Boldly navigating this ever-evolving landscape, MBA Energy & Industrial (MBA) is a design-build construction services provider focusing its efforts in the vast industrial, energy, and manufacturing sectors.

“Due to our reputation for successfully completing energy projects in remote locations all around the country, we have found ourselves a perfect fit to meet the needs of the energy, industrial, data center, and manufacturing sectors’ growth that is going on across the nation,” introduces CEO, Damian Rockett.

“At the same time, labor shortages and supply chain swings have been real challenges, but we are utilizing

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MBA ENERGY & INDUSTRIAL NORTH AMERICA

our experience and vast supply chain to mitigate these difficulties for our customers,” he sets out.

This formidable ability to adjust and keep delivering is a big reason clients continue to come back to MBA, particularly as end users are no longer willing to wait for utilities to come to them.

MBA’S KEY PROJECTS EVRAZ STEEL MILL • A two-story, steel-framed administration building inside an active steel mill to support operations, including first-floor locker rooms and showers and second-floor office space for management and staff.

• The project was completed in a high-risk environment with zero safety incidents through disciplined planning, training, and execution.

AIR PRODUCTS AT TEXAS CITY • An approximately 23,000-square-foot (sqft) blast-rated operations office and warehouse for an air products hydrogen and ammonia plant located on the TX coast.

• A 10,000 sqft blast-rated office portion of the building includes thick concrete tilt-up walls with a high gage metal roof and blast-rated, vault-type main doors.

BITCOIN MINING FACILITY • A bitcoin mining facility totaling over 130,000 sqft across seven buildings.

• The project featured unique design finishes and customized schedule sequencing. MBA’s exceptional performance led to the awarding of two additional projects totaling 900,000 sqft across two buildings.

STEEL DYNAMICS PROJECT • 20 design-build structures totaling over 500,000 sqft and made up of a variety of buildings on a single campus serving multiple customers.

• The scope included pre-engineered metal buildings, an administration building, water treatment facilities, interior pulpits, complete heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and integrated rail lines to support large-scale industrial operations and logistics efficiency.

INDEPENDENT OIL AND GAS COMPANY - MULTI-WELL CENTRAL TANK BATTERY • Multi-well pad in West Texas complete with primary and secondary separation, vapor and liquids management, and pipeline takeoffs for oil, gas, and water.

• This included a strategic turnkey design to accommodate compressed timeline, simultaneous operations, safety considerations, and construction sequencing to reduce overall duration to place the wells in production.

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“We are built to handle complex, fast-moving, and remote projects and keep them moving when others stall.

That is why so much of our backlog comes from repeat clients – they know we will find a way to deliver,” Rockett affirms.

STICKING TO PRINCIPALS Recognizing an industry need for cost-effective oil and gas designbuild, engineering, industrial contracting, and construction services, Principals Cory Martin, Mark Brown, and Daniel Acevedo founded MBA to deliver practical, effective solutions for the energy and industrial sectors.

The three founders took their vision for success and came together to combine their construction, engineering, and contracting experience to grow the business into a successful

Air products at Texas City plant

“ O U R A P P R OAC H I S TO OW N T H E C O M P L E X I T Y, N O T H A N D I T B A C K T O T H E C L I E N T – O P E N C O M M U N I C AT I O N A N D T R U S T A R E P A R T O F I T, B U T T H E R E A L D I F F E R E N T I AT O R I S H O W W E M A K E T H E PROCESS SIMPLE WITHOUT CUTTING CORNERS” – D A M I A N R O C K E T T, C E O , M B A E N E R G Y & I N D U S T R I A L

design-build construction company.

Since its inception, MBA has grown into an industry leading company offering services throughout North America with its headquarters located in Houston, Texas (TX) and field offices in Austin, TX and Salt Lake City, Utah.

“The MBA name was conceived using the first initial of each principal’s last name. To this day, the company is still owned by the original founders,

continuing their vision of providing quality design-build construction services at affordable rates,” Rockett recalls.

“Today, we manage every phase of a project’s lifecycle – from design, procurement, project management, and construction – with one team and one process. Our projects span oil and gas, renewable energy, renewable natural gas (RNG), carbon capture,

water treatment, manufacturing, and large-scale data centers,” he elaborates.

Furthermore, MBA is now licensed in 42 states and often works in remote areas where few other companies can mobilize so effectively. It excels at large-scale facilities and multibuilding campuses, delivering projects that demand significant coordination and execution discipline.

MASTERING THE INDUSTRY At MBA, every project brings unique demands and requires specialist attention.

“Our approach is to own the complexity, not hand it back to the client – open communication and trust are part of it, but the real differentiator is how we make the process simple without cutting corners,” Rockett explains.

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BUILDING OUR COMMUNITY ONE PROJECT AT A TIME Dedicated to crafting a strong and vibrant future, Golden Block Builders is here to turn your Structural Steel Erection and Metal Building construction goals into reality with an unwavering commitment to excellence BECOMING THE LEADER REFERENCE IN THE COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION SECTOR With a vision of becoming the leading reference in the commercial construction industry, Golden Block Builders provides a full range of solutions to your metal building and structural steel erection scope.

Whether the project consists of ground-up construction, transformative renovation, or ambitious expansion, our team of dedicated and experienced steel erection experts is ready to join your efforts.

Golden Block Builders is headquartered in Spring, Texas, and provides coverage coast to coast, having experienced projects from California to New York, Texas to South Dakota, and all states in between. Our commitment to quality, safety, and innovation is what continues to set us apart in the world of construction.

Our craftsmanship includes structural steel erection along with: • Primary and secondary steel erection • Standing seam roof system/Insulation Metal Roof Panel (IMRP) system • Metal wall panel systems/Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) • R-value insulation systems • Mezzanine platforms/multi-level building structure • Floor and roof decking • Pre-fabricated stairs, roof hatch, and access ladder • Structural and miscellaneous welding • RTU and equipment structural Support • Metal Canopies • Gutters and downspouts systems • Coping/cap Trim.

• Special-use industrial steel buildings and as-built

“SAFETY AND QUALITY ARE A REFLECTION OF OUR CORE VALUES” Integrity – Always do the right thing.

Golden Block Builders thrives in industries that require a high level of craftsmanship, capability, and safety standards. Some of these sectors include renewable energy, oil and gas, special-use industrial buildings, water treatment facilities, medical, data and tech, manufacturing, government, education, transportation, aviation, and retail giants.

Unity – Teamwork is the beating heart of the company, and building and maintaining relationships is at the center of every decision made.

As such, to ensure the completion of our projects with accuracy, expertise, and success, Golden Block Builders is comprised of multi-disciplinary teams that focus strategically on what is currently driving the markets we work with, alongside any challenges they may face with workforce and skills.

Ownership – We take pride in our work, celebrate our successes, and recognize when we fall short.

PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION OF CRAFTSMANSHIP To support the various crucial sectors and prepare the next generation of skilled craft tradesmen in structural steel, we have launched an apprenticeship program with the Construction and Maintenance Education Foundation (CMEF) – a non-profit solely devoted to servicing the workforce development needs of the contractor community through various initiatives.

Our entry-level hires are provided with the classroom and on-the-job training necessary to sharpen their skills over the course of several years. Golden Block Builders is also a proud member of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) – a national US trade association representing and advocating for the construction industry. ABC provides an opportunity for our staff to network, engage with the community, and stay on top of the latest trends and safety practices.

Community Engagement and Forward Looking Serving our community is just another fun way to give back to the communities that have had our backs since day one. Our staff loves to regularly participate at the Houston Food Bank, engaging in back-toschool fundraising, and supporting Christmas toy drives.

As Golden Block Builders looks to the future, we recognize that our fabrication capabilities are currently limited to a small region of the northeastern US; however, as our next big step, we are planning to expand these capabilities further into the South, Midwest & West Coast States. We look forward to continuing to serve new and existing clients and growing our well-established footprint.

Resilience – We rise to any challenge with a problem-solving and innovative mindset.

Phone: (346-630-0028) Admin@goldenblockbuilders.com www.GoldenBlockBuilders.com

MBA ENERGY & INDUSTRIAL NORTH AMERICA

Furthermore, when the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was passed in 2022, MBA did not wait for others to figure out how it would work – instead the company hired a fulltime IRA specialist to ensure all its operations stayed ahead of regulatory requirements.

“We have already completed several IRA projects and are currently involved in over a dozen others. Our reputation has led us to support construction operations on multiple new chip manufacturing facilities across the country,” he continues.

Additionally, MBA is the premier choice for data center development.

It has 1.5 gigawatts of data center capacity and offers unmatched expertise in design, engineering, procurement, and construction for such facilities.

Within this portion of the company’s work, its highperformance computing (HPC)certified Design Manager is crucial to 112 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

“ W E A R E B U I LT T O H A N D L E C O M P L E X , FA S TM OV I N G , A N D R E M OT E P R OJ E C TS A N D K E E P T H E M M O V I N G W H E N O T H E R S S TA L L ” – D A M I A N R O C K E T T, C E O , M B A E N E R G Y & I N D U S T R I A L

creating elite new centers.

The company’s leaders are hands-on problem solvers and well known by both internal and external stakeholders throughout each project.

“We also reinforce accountability with dedicated roles for safety, quality, and warranty, so clients know we deliver and stand behind our work.”

Ultimately, this is the reason why more than 74 percent of MBA’s work comes from repeat clients, who can always rest assured that the company makes the hard jobs easier for them.

COMMUNITY CARE For MBA, corporate philanthropy

is less about recognition and more about supporting its people as they help their local communities.

“The company and our employees pride themselves on being engaged members of the communities we work in. We partner up with clients around the country to support local charities while also aiding nearby schools and organizations,” Rockett prides.

This support doesn’t stop at just financial donations, however, as MBA prides itself on responding in person when it can.

“Our people can often be found helping local charities like the Houston Food Bank and we have also been involved with cleanups after every

MBA ENERGY & INDUSTRIAL NORTH AMERICA

PROVIDING FAMILY OWNED EXCELLENCE FOR NEARLY A DECADE! Cell: (575)449-5219 Office: (575)552-5622 Dispatch: (575)725-1706 Email: Diamond@DiamondHSR.com

Diamond Hotshot & Rental, LLC has been dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service for all your oilfield equipment rental needs for over seven years.

Our extensive inventory includes a variety of equipment, such as forklifts, manlifts, skid steers, trenchers, pressure washers or steamers, light towers, 4–6-seater ATVs, and much more. Additionally, we offer hotshot services that cater to projects of all sizes and distances, ensuring competitive pricing for our customers. Whether you need equipment for a short-term project or require reliable transportation services, Diamond Hotshot & Rental is here to assist you.

We proudly offer services to the surrounding areas of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico.

major storm that has hit the Gulf Coast, from New Orleans, Louisiana to Brownsville, TX, over the last few decades,” he adds.

MBA also makes it a priority to recognize achievements and celebrate its people. Every March, the company takes time to recognize Women in Construction Week to honor and celebrate the incredible women on its team.

“We also organize activities such as pickleball, basketball, go-karting, and even fielded a softball team, while a yearly highlight is our annual Christmas paintball tournament.”

These moments matter to both the company and Rockett, as they keep the team connected.

We understand that what sets MBA apart from our peers is our people, so we make investing in our employees a top priority.

“Put simply, if we take care of our doers, they will take care of our clients,” he expands.

DEDICATED TO THE JOB Undoubtedly, what continues to set the company apart is the tried and tested structure of its team.

MBA places a lot of emphasis on accountability, which is the reason why it employs a full-time Safety Director managing its site-specific safety plans, a Quality Control Manager focused on consistency, and Warranty Manager who ensures the company stands by its work even after the job is finished.

Using this formula for success moving forward, MBA will endeavor to focus on its core client base in the heavy industrial and oil and gas sectors. At the same time, the company is growing in renewables, data centers, and energy production.

Elsewhere, MBA has also been at the forefront of large bitcoin mining facilities and is now part of the artificial intelligence (AI) data center revolution.

“We have also seen substantial

growth with our engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partners, and we plan to continue to build on that. Across every industry, our priorities stay the same – safety, quality, client satisfaction, and operational efficiency,” adds Rockett.

“At the end of the day, our goal is simple – deliver high-quality projects on time, on budget, anywhere, every time,” he firmly concludes.

Tel: 832-299-4844 pgarner@mba-nrg.com

www.mba-nrg.com

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A DESIGN VISION – FROM CONCEPT TO C R E AT I O N As Ghana’s real estate market flourishes, Denya Developers has emerged as a leader in vertically integrated residential development, emphasising quality and innovation. Managing Director, Scot Murray, discusses designing and building homes that exceed expectations Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram

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DENYA DEVELOPERS AFRICA

N

estled in West Africa (WA) along the beautiful Gulf of Guinea coastline, Ghana is a vibrant country with approximately 35 million inhabitants, making it one of the more populous nations on the continent, driving demand for modern living spaces.

The Ghanaian real estate market is experiencing considerable growth, driven by factors such as population increases, urbanisation, and foreign investment. As a result, the conditions for dynamic opportunities are abundant, with buyers increasingly prioritising quality construction.

“Market dynamics vary across WA and Ghana significantly benefits from its affluent diaspora, driving

a substantial share of in-city sales and rental properties, whilst markets like Ivory Coast and Nigeria are more locally driven,” opens Scot Murray, Managing Director of Denya Developers (Denya), Ghana’s premier real estate company.

“Considering that commercial office and retail developments face higher risks due to their capitalintensive nature and sensitivity to economic conditions, we decided to focus primarily on residential properties. We then integrate commercial spaces as an amenity and hold these assets long-term,” he adds.

Denya, founded in 2013 as a subsidiary of the Mauritius-based

Pragnya Group (Pragnya), was established to capitalise on the anticipated growth of African real estate markets, drawing parallels with India’s evolution in the early 2000s. The goal was to develop deep regional expertise ahead of market maturity.

“Given my family’s long-standing relationship with Pragnya and my experience in management consultancy specialising in frontier markets, I was trusted to found and lead Denya’s operations. From the outset, we focused on affordable luxury residential developments, but we have increasingly gone upscale with each new development,” Murray mentions.

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BUILDING TRUST THROUGH QUALITY Since breaking ground on its first project in 2016, Denya has completed five residential developments in Accra, scaling up to create some of the Ghanaian capital’s largest and most prestigious properties.

CAN YOU PROVIDE DETAILS ON DENYA’S COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY AND ANY INITIATIVES YOU HAVE IN PLACE TO ENHANCE ENERGY EFFICIENCY? Scot Murray, Managing Director: “Sustainability is integral to our approach, encompassing thoughtful designs to minimise waste, material choices to reduce environmental impact, and energy-efficient solutions. We avoid substances like gypsum and plaster of Paris, which generate air pollution during processing, by prioritising safer alternatives.

“Our energy-saving measures include solar panels, water heaters, and strategic glazing orientations to reduce thermal loading. These initiatives benefit the environment and lower homeowners’ costs, delivering a dual bottom line of sustainability and affordability.”

These include The Pavilion and Tribute House, with 144 residences and 52 residences, respectively.

International projects under the Pragnya brand, meanwhile, include HSBC offices in India and Sri Lanka as well as commercial and large-scale residential developments in India.

“Our offerings in Ghana have evolved to include premium, large-scale residential projects, and our team has grown to over 90 professionals, reflecting our commitment to excellence and innovation in Ghana’s real estate sector,” informs Murray.

Denya distinguishes itself through a commitment to quality and customer assurance as the only developer in Ghana to offer a 10-year structural warranty and a five-year warranty on waterproofing and leakages, significantly surpassing the national standard of a one-year defect liability period.

“We have invested heavily in robust construction, using customised formwork for both exterior and interior walls, and eliminating lowgrade blockwork. As a result, our walls are laser-straight and four times harder than the competition – a decision informed by market surveys revealing underinvestment in structural quality,” Murray reports.

This approach leads to more durable buildings which, in turn, cultivates a stronger sense of trust amongst consumers.

“The most unexpected aspect of our growth story was how little we relied on marketing. In a landscape filled with questionable promises, we

chose to build solid homes and strong relationships, which then scaled via word-of-mouth. That approach has led to over 80 percent of our buyers either being repeat purchasers or their friends and family.

“We’ve also recently established an in-house architecture and design team as well as our own construction finishes team. That enables us to provide a wide range of customisation options and premium material choices so that our clients can personalise the appearance and ambience of their homes. The story is advancing from our structures to every ingredient we use,” he provides.

INNOVATION AND COLLABORATION Innovation is essential for successfully elevating the living experience. As such, research into smart technology revealed strong demand for features like smart door locks, curtains, and customisable mood lighting, which Denya has thoughtfully integrated.

“Beyond smart technology in our interiors, we focus on lavish communal amenities, such as Ghana’s largest elevated swimming pool at 450 square metres (sqm) and an in-house hospitality team to deliver premium services. These enhancements create a resort-like lifestyle at home, setting our high-rise developments apart,” Murray prides.

In addition, Denya’s beautiful homes serve as excellent investment opportunities, including buy-tolet options, providing end-to-end support with furnishing and on-site rental management. Invest-to-own,

“ C R E AT I V I T Y A N D I N N O VAT I O N T H R I V E WHEN WE ALLOW AMPLE TIME FOR I D E AT I O N , I T E R AT I O N , A N D R E F I N E M E N T DURING THE DESIGN PHASE” – S C O T M U R R AY, M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R , D E N YA D E V E L O P E R S

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meanwhile, is a unique payment plan Denya recently unveiled that allows buyers to pay much less over the construction period and avoid traditional mortgages thanks to exclusive arrangements with the finance sector.

Although recent years have presented macroeconomic

challenges, particularly the global disruptions caused by the COVID19 pandemic that have impacted construction and real estate worldwide, Denya’s conservative approach of eschewing debt has been a cornerstone of its resilience, allowing the company to navigate fluctuations without existential risk.

“Many clients worry about construction risk. By prioritising open communication and even educating our clients on how we approach risk internally, we build strong trust.

“Consequently, Denya has one of the highest sales conversion rates from qualified leads in the industry,” assures Murray.

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DENYA DEVELOPERS AFRICA

A VISION FOR LUXURY LIVING Denya recently completed the first phase of The Pavilion in the Cantonments neighbourhood in Accra, a 144-unit residential development with an average apartment size of 104 sqm, where the second phase is set for completion by the end of 2025.

This project redefines urban living with over 2,000 sqm of amenities, including a resort-style pool with a swim-up bar, green spaces, two gyms, a billiards room, library, and games rooms, as well as a co-working space, café, and grocery store. Its scale and lifestyle focus make it one of Accra’s most desirable prime addresses.

Additionally, Denya is preparing to launch MyGoi Beach Resort (MyGoi), a beachfront residential and holiday home development near Goi in the Greater Accra region.

“This flagship development, over 20 acres, will be in high demand. It will feature luxury beachfront villas with infinity pools, two-storey bungalows with ocean views, and high-end apartment suites, all complemented by a beachside clubhouse, sports and business centres, and multiple fine dining options.

“MyGoi tackles the scarcity of highquality vacation homes outside Accra, a challenge no developer of our size and repute has previously undertaken.

Our vision is a professionally managed luxury beachfront residential estate, an offering which we feel will be a landmark development for 2025 and beyond. We expect this development to be sought after by clients not only in Ghana, but across WA,” Murray prides.

The company is also investing heavily in advanced construction technologies, particularly robotic tools for tasks like sanding, skimming, and painting, to enhance quality and efficiency. These investments are expected to ramp up over the next three years.

“Equally critical is our focus on 118 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

DENYA’S SPECIAL FEATURES A UNIQUE CONSTRUCTION METHOD – Developments are recognisable by their perfect corners, laser-straight edges, and 100 percent solid walls. The company uses a higher grade of concrete and more steel per sqm than any of its competitors, and all buildings are designed to withstand Seismic Zone 4 regions.

DRINKABLE WATER IN EVERY KITCHEN – Residences with more than 40 apartments receive water from reverse osmosis treatment plants, ensuring the water is safe to drink, reducing plastic waste, and saving a family of four over USD$1,000 annually.

GERMAN KITCHENS AND APPLIANCES – Both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, manufacturers from the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany are renowned for their high-end kitchens. Custom-designed to suit appliances, soft-closing, and laminated to the highest standard are just some of their features.

HIGH CEILINGS AND LARGE WINDOWS – Ceilings range from 2.8 to three metres (m), which is above standard height, creating an airy feeling. With huge windows in every bedroom and 3.6 to 4.2m sliding glass doors in the living rooms, the apartments offer panoptic views, allowing all-encompassing light to flood in.

BATHROOMS BY KOHLER – A family-owned company from the US, known for its phenomenal taps and bathrooms.

INTERNATIONAL AND USB SOCKETS – Universal sockets plus provisions for two USB plugs by every bedside.

LONGEST WARRANTIES IN GHANA – Offers 10-year warranties on constructions and five-year warranties for all waterproofing and leakage damage.

DENYA DEVELOPERS AFRICA

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“ B E YO N D S M A R T T E C H N O LO GY I N O U R I N T E R I O R S , W E F O C U S O N L AV I S H C O M M U N A L A M E N I T I E S , S U C H A S G H A N A’ S L A R G E S T E L E VAT E D S W I M M I N G P O O L AT 4 5 0 S Q M A N D A N I N - H O U S E H O S P I TA L I T Y T E A M T O D E L I V E R P R E M I U M S E R V I C E S . T H E S E E N H A N C E M E N T S C R E AT E A R E S O R T- L I K E L I F E S T Y L E AT H O M E , S E T T I N G O U R H I G H - R I S E D E V E LO P M E N T S A PA R T ” – S C O T M U R R AY, M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R , D E N YA D E V E L O P E R S

upskilling our team on-site and in administrative roles to instil a culture of high-quality service. A unified vision and shared values are the bedrock of success, and we prioritise fostering this across our organisation.”

Denya’s priorities for the coming year include completing and handing over the second phase of The Pavilion, launching and breaking ground on the MyGoi beachfront development, and unveiling a new inner-city residential

project – its tallest and largest to date.

“These initiatives reflect our ambition to redefine luxury living in Ghana whilst expanding our footprint in both urban and coastal markets. We intend to ensure that more people are aware of who we are and the excellent work that our team is doing,” Murray enthusiastically concludes.

As Denya forges a path with its design-first mindset and focus on customer relationships, it remains

dedicated to setting new standards in the Ghanaian real estate market, heralding exciting times ahead.

Tel: +233 (0)268 315 111 info@denyadevelopers.com

www.denyadevelopers.com

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 119

W I T H PAS S I O N FROM PRETORIA From luxury lodges to hotels, warehouses, factories, hospitals, retail centres, and commercial buildings, Mike Buyskes Construction is recognised for the quality of its work, proactive involvement in contracts, and timely completion of projects, as we find out from Managing Director, Jayson Buyskes Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram

120 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

MIKE BUYSKES CONSTRUCTION AFRICA

T

he construction industry in the Southern Africa region is vibrant, with a lot of big opportunities starting to take shape.

This is especially the case in the tourism and retail sectors in the form of lodges and shopping centres.

“Recent trends that are emerging in addition to the above are most certainly high-rise and mixed-use residential in the Western Cape region

of South Africa (SA), given space in Cape Town is limited,” notes Jayson Buyskes, Managing Director of Mike Buyskes Construction (MBC).

Based in Pretoria, the administrative capital of SA, MBC specialises in commercial and retail spaces, as well as commercial tourism and lodges as a specialist niche offering.

Although the company has worked on two commercial lodges

in Southern Zambia in recent years, SA remains MBC’s core focus as it works throughout the country in all provinces.

Its customer base is also very consistent with regards to repeat work with the same clients.

“I would say about 80 percent of our annual turnover for the past 10 years has come from three or four loyal clients,” reveals Buyskes.

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FAMILY CULTURE MBC was founded in 1972 by Buyskes’ late father, Mike, and is inherently family-owned, meaning he has always had an interest in the building trade from an early age.

Growing up, Buyskes would stay on building sites and visit commercial sites with his father, and it soon dawned on him that the industry was really interesting and stimulating.

“I then worked in the UK after school at Heathrow Terminal 5 and

122 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

various other construction sites around the UK for two different companies over a 12-month period,” Buyskes informs us.

“I returned and studied at the University of Pretoria and graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Construction Management in 2008, before joining MBC full-time the following year.”

MBC is driven by family values and differentiated by its family culture, which cultivates value in employee relationships and pride

in the workplace.

“We are far more adaptable to a changing environment and seen as very proactive and engaging with professional teams and developers,” he acclaims.

LUXURY LODGES Buyskes is keen to showcase a number of projects that MBC has constructed, including Lolebezi Lodge in Zambia.

Completed in May 2022, the

lodge is located on the banks of the Zambezi River in the Lower Zambezi National Park – a remote and exclusive African setting.

Adorned with acacia trees, Lolebezi Lodge’s architectural philosophy is rooted in contemporary style and African heritage. It comprises eight guest suites, a main guest area, gym, spa, and staff village with eight outbuildings.

The lodge is a grand display of opulent splendour, complete with

artwork that pays tribute to local culture and craftsmanship, whilst natural textures and tones woven throughout only stand to enhance its beautiful surroundings.

Another lodge MBC built is Melote House, a pristine oasis of luxury and exclusivity in the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve in Limpopo, SA. Each room is meticulously designed for comfort and relaxation, with contemporary furnishings, premium, bedding, and tasteful décor that immerse guests in sophistication.

Due to the scale, complexity, and access to the works, MBC purchased its first ever mobile, all-terrain Fiori concrete mixer to traverse the terrain with ease and ensure the best results when casting the slab structures.

Occasionally accompanied by lions, rhinos, and the like, MBC had to put strict protocols in place for the safety and security of its team and the wildlife in the reserve.

COMMERCIAL AND RETAIL SPACES Lodges aside, the company has built Westend Building C and follow-on project, Westend Building D, for Abland. Both office blocks were designed and built on a solid raft foundation structure.

The former, which was one of the fastest projects MBC has ever completed, included three basement levels, four office levels, and a full Penetron-based roofs lab. For Westend Building D, MBC also did a full tenant improvement (TI) fit-out for Sanlam.

In the same office precinct, MBC has additionally constructed Westend Building E and is now in the process of completing Westend Building F for Abcon.

The company has had a little more time to complete the latter, however it requires a full TI fit-out in addition to the construction of the office block, which has made it challenging.

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MIKE BUYSKES CONSTRUCTION AFRICA AFRICA

“ W E A R E FA R M O R E A D A P TA B L E T O A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT AND SEEN AS V E RY P R OAC T I V E A N D E N G AG I N G W I T H PROFESSIONAL TEAMS AND DEVELOPERS” – J AY S O N B U Y S K E S , M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R , M I K E B U Y S K E S C O N S T R U C T I O N

MBC has also constructed the Mbhashe LG Mall in the town of Dutywa in the Eastern Cape. The mall was recently opened in March 2025, with over 60 stores providing exceptional grocer, banking, fashion, and food options to the area.

Developed to enhance economic growth and accessibility, Mbhashe LG Mall is set to become a central shopping hub in the region, which has historically had very limited retail options available.

The development will therefore play a key role in enhancing the retail landscape, stimulating the local economy, and creating valuable local

job opportunities. Mbhashe LG Mall was built for long-standing client McCormick Property Development, who MBC has now constructed more than 15 malls for.

Elsewhere, in the town of Ermelo in Mpumalanga, the Merino Mall presents an unmatched shopping experience, with a strong fashion component, banking facilities, food outlets, and other exciting offerings.

Built on the historic Ermelo showgrounds, the 90-store Merino Mall pays tribute to the site’s heritage – a place that has always been central to community life in the area – with the original barn structures a key

design feature of the building and local artwork adorning its walls.

The Merino Mall also incorporates answers to current socioeconomic challenges with its own solar photovoltaic (PV) plant that produces green energy. It can also trade during loadshedding and even has a sewage treatment plant that recycles grey water back into the building.

All this combines to make a meaningful contribution to the community and manage environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors.

MBC is additionally building Garden Walk, an upmarket conveniencedriven shopping centre, for its client Moolman Group.

Set to become a standout retail and lifestyle destination, Garden Walk is located in the popular coastal town of Hartenbos in the Western Cape province and will be MBC’s first project in this area.

MIKE BUYSKES CONSTRUCTION AFRICA

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Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 125

MIKE BUYSKES CONSTRUCTION AFRICA

MBC’S MISSION AND VISION MISSION: To engage in and execute building contracts to the highest professional standards.

VISION: - Foster goodwill amongst employees, clients, fellow contractors, and professional associates.

- Trade at a reasonable profit and not to the detriment of employees, subcontractors, suppliers, clients, or professional associates.

- Take cognisance of the potential of its employees, irrespective of race, colour, or creed, and promote that potential through training and education – at the cost of the company – with the aim of advancing and uplifting the employee.

- Belong to and be proactively involved with organisations allied to and engaged in the welfare of the trade.

- Where possible, work with budding subcontractors from the previously disadvantaged sector and assist and train them in the values of the company.

MIKE BUYSKES CONSTRUCTION AFRICA

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QUALITY OVER PRICE With such an impressive portfolio of projects to showcase, Buyskes emphasises how MBC values the suppliers and subcontractors it has built long-term relationships with over the years.

“Quality over price is a key driver as it relates to the product, service delivery, and most importantly, aftersales service. We often negotiate our future pipeline of work with suppliers and subcontractors to better retain their services long-term,” he outlines.

Equally, every staff member at MBC is treated as a person with a name, rather than simply a number in a big organisation.

“We provide management with decision-making powers that are usually not within their mandate per se,” Buyskes shares.

“We focus on skills development and transfer within the workplace by pairing mentors with less experienced personnel to fast-track their progress

and gains, giving them confidence.”

MBC aims to consolidate, invest, and strengthen its footprint going forwards, with the company on track to reach 100 percent capacity by the end of this year.

“Including the procurement of future work well into the end of 2026, we are currently at 60 percent of this target,” concludes Buyskes.

Tel: (+27) 12 809 8900 office@mikebuyskescon.co.za

www.mikebuyskescon.co.za Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 127

COMPLEX

PROJECTS IN A COMPLEX ENVIRONMENT Following his recent appointment as Group CEO of leading multidisciplinary engineering consulting and professional services firm GIBB, we gain valuable insights from Vishaal Lutchman on numerous topics concerning the construction industry in South Africa, including sustainability, transport, socioeconomic growth, purposeful leadership, and more Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram

A

ppointed as Group CEO in February 2025, Vishaal Lutchman firmly believes GIBB has the potential to make a significant impact in South Africa (SA).

The company has been operating since 1956, a near seven-decade legacy that Lutchman is eager to leverage, grow, adapt, and make a greater impact.

Offering design, planning, and management services across the entire engineering consultancy spectrum, GIBB has proven capabilities in delivering complex projects along various verticals, including transport, energy, water, oil and gas, and mining.

Lutchman was attracted to GIBB by a shared vision and set of beliefs, one 128 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

being that SA is a difficult geography to work in with enormous potential to serve its people sustainably, a vision he holds true and is inculcating in the company’s talented team of diverse professionals.

GIBB recognises and appreciates the potential Africa offers and, accordingly, has an in-depth understanding of the challenges of developing infrastructure on the continent.

“SA is fraught with high levels of corruption, violent crime, and very difficult, almost unsustainable socioeconomic circumstances.

My personal narrative was that somebody has to stick around to fix it, and that was exactly what the board thought when we had the first interview,” he recalls.

GIBB AFRICA

GIBB AFRICA

“ W E A R E A B L E TO C H A R T O U R OW N D E S T I N Y I N M A N Y R E S P E C T S . T H E C U LT U R E O F T H E O R G A N I S AT I O N I S C L E A R LY SOUTH AFRICAN, SO WE ARE VERY MUCH HOME-BASED” – V I S H A A L LU TC H M A N , G R O U P C E O, G I B B

Another shared belief between Lutchman and the board is that GIBB is here to make a difference with teams connected to the communities it serves.

The warm company culture was also a happy coincidence that reaffirmed his decision to join GIBB and resonates with his purpose.

“Our culture is one of the things that differentiates us. We are not a listed firm, so we’re not dictated by shareholders but by our pipeline, backlog, geography, and the

opportunities we wish to chase and invest in,” outlines Lutchman.

“We are able to chart our own destiny in many respects. The culture of the organisation is clearly South African, so we are very much home-based.”

Whereas many listed competitors bid for opportunities far away and use an opportunistic fly-in, flyout approach, the company stays physically close to the client entities it serves on an ongoing basis.

“Our relationships run deep and

take time to create and maintain whilst gaining a deep understanding of our clients’ mandates and their stakeholders and constituencies.”

Moreover, GIBB runs a very lean operation that is not top-heavy or bureaucratic, with limited overheads including a hybrid working model that enables it to easily upscale and downscale teams in the relevant jurisdictions.

“It also gives flexibility in the work-life balance space. When we do engagement surveys, many of our employees tell us they really like to work for GIBB because of that flexibility,” Lutchman reveals.

SUSTAINABILITY PILLARS GIBB is conscious of the areas in which it operates and continues to seek ways to offer sustainable solutions on its projects.

For Lutchman, sustainability is

GIBB AFRICA

HOW WOULD YOU ASSESS THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY IN SA AND AFRICA AS A WHOLE? Vishaal Lutchman, Group CEO: “In the South African context, there are not enough projects of substantial scale coming to market.

“SA is also very highly regulated in terms of participation from foreign firms. Local regulatory frameworks prevent, to a large extent, foreign entities from participating in the local market, so it’s protected from a regulatory point of view.

“Other geographies on the continent are not protected, with firms from outside the African continent participating in construction projects through procurement modalities that may not support the typical growth strategy of a country.

“When you have government-to-government (G2G) transactions, they are inadvertently bypassing a procurement process, so value for money is not always determined and the business case for why some of these projects have happened can be questioned. This has led to a significant deficit in headroom for investments on real projects that generate revenue for the sovereign.

“If foreign firms are participating in many African geographies, they remain disadvantaged in terms of growing their own local capability to construct. Large parts of the continent are not protected or regulated and are easily susceptible to this phenomenon.

“Where market regulation is strong, like in SA, firms have actually gone out of business because there isn’t the work, so that’s one extreme. On the other hand, we’ve had G2G transactions for probably 20 years now that have taken the continent to another extreme where there’s no capacity because there’s so much work done by other entities.”

difficult to define because it’s very context-specific and there are a few pillars that matter to the concept, including financial, social, and environmental sustainability.

“What is becoming the fourth pillar is cultural sustainability – in other words, at what expense do we expand and grow our economies and what damage are we doing to the culture of the communities that we serve? This is particularly relevant in SA because we are a very diverse, multicultural society with a racially divided past that seems to stay

embedded in the four pillars,” he insights.

“The four pillars work in tandem; each is not a standalone pillar that defines sustainability. They gave rise to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that we currently have, and we as a country are subscribers to them.”

According to Lutchman, the cultural, financial, and social sustainability pillars are the most important to SA as it contends with worsening socioeconomic issues, such as poverty and unemployment.

With a Gini coefficient of 0.63, it is considered to have the highest level of income inequality in the world.

“There is a lot of opportunity in SA, but malfeasance and ineffective leadership across the board is hindering social maturity and the ability to address the rate of socioeconomic decline,” Lutchman informs us.

“Our leaders don’t believe all citizens are deserving of equal rights, so they behave in an opportunistic way encouraging elitism and populism to play out.

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GIBB AFRICA

“Populist politics is hurting our economy substantially; behind that is elitism, which tends to have malfeasance motivated by individual greed.

“We’re still grappling with issues related to the colonial projects of the past and don’t have the resilience that First World economies have, so the socioeconomic narrative is that many things will stay the same for a long time to come,” he notes.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONUNDRUM Much of the infrastructure in the developing world, such as coal-fired power stations, also stems from the colonisation of Africa and extraction of resources from the continent.

“We have a phenomenon 132 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

that dictates one will not fund infrastructure related to coal going forwards, but we sit here with infrastructure that was not provided by the African people, so there’s a pushback narrative on that,” Lutchman affirms.

“The power stations were not built by us, but by First World geographies who now do an about turn to say these solutions are nolonger appropriate but continue to provide goods and services whilst their principles state the contrary.

We appreciate climate change, but these same developed economies may have created the problem in the first place and continue to do so whilst holding Africa back from development or developing on

their terms.”

Lutchman is concerned that the environmental narrative is not pure as it seems to be driven by the financial gains of large technology providers outside the continent.

“SA exports 80 million tonnes of coal.Why not tackle these issues related to environmental decay instead of picking on an easy target? Why doesn’t the West take a stance on the real targets in terms of industrialisation and not prejudice Africa, which is not industrialised, by saying it’s the cause of the problem?” he asks.

As a result, Lutchman says there are “elements of colonialism in the current structuring of the economy” and that Africa is stuck for power.

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“We’re being forced to buy technology from abroad because the narrative is they’ve got the answers to everyone’s problems.

When will this narrative on such emerging or developing economies stop? It’s getting fatiguing and tiring.”

The company’s current focus is on renewables, investing in aboveground projects such as solar plants, wind power, and battery energy storage.

COLLECTIVE GROWTH GIBB is a member of the Black Business Council in the Built Environment (BBCBE), which works to shape legislation and engage with government bodies to create a supportive environment for the Black community in the building and construction sector.

Apartheid, a system of institutionalised racial segregation, was enforced in SA from 1948 until 134 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

“ T H E R E I S A LOT O F O P P O R T U N I T Y I N SA , BUT MALFEASANCE AND INEFFECTIVE L E A D E R S H I P AC R OSS T H E B OA R D I S H I N D E R I N G S O C I A L M AT U R I T Y A N D T H E A B I L I T Y T O A D D R E S S T H E R AT E O F SOCIOECONOMIC DECLINE” – V I S H A A L LU TC H M A N , G R O U P C E O, G I B B

early 1990. In this context, Lutchman supports the BBCBE’s attempts to defragment the country and collectively grow the economy.

“How do we transition political freedom into economic freedom so we have more inclusivity, with the majority of Black people in SA being included in the formal economy?” questions Lutchman.

“What they’re saying is we need each other. Many of the non-Black firms have the technology, capability, and skills that GIBB has. How do we use this as a collective and

get the leaders of this country to listen to people that actually have knowledge?”

With global geopolitical volatilities such as US President Donald Trump’s tariff regime, which Lutchman tells us has hurt the African economy, the BBCBE is advocating for African people to start looking after themselves.

“Shouldn’t we start growing our own development narrative and creating our own technology and solutions as a collective so we are less exposed to these volatilities? That’s the narrative.”

GIBB AFRICA

Myezo meaning ’Garden of Eden’ is a 100% black female owned environmental management services consultancy.

The company’s purpose is to assist stakeholders to create value through the implementation of sustainable practices, community impact and regulatory compliance.

Our vision is to create harmonious coexistence between human progress and the natural environment by promoting sustainability and responsible environmental stewardship.

Myezo is committed to creating measurable environmental, social, and governance value to stakeholders by implementing sustainable solutions that reduce Environmental, Social, and Governance risk.

LIST OF SERVICES Strategic Insight and Stakeholder Engagement.

Environmental Auditing and Compliance Monitoring.

Waste and Environmental Management.

Environmental Authorization, Impact Assessments and Programmes.

Geospatial Solutions.

Country Sustainability Reports.

Rehabilitation, Decommissioning and Closure Plans.

Environmental Awareness Capacity Building and Coaching.

Environmental Engineering Solutions, Water Management and Water Use Licences.

Emergency Response Plans, Legal Aspects, and Risk Registers.

Procedure Development.

ESG and Environmental Sustainability Strategy.

Social and Labour Plans.

Site Selection.

Specialist Studies.

Ph. 082 772 2418 babalwa@myezo.co.za

www.myezo.co.za

DISCONNECTED TRANSPORT Transportation is another issue that Lutchman is keen to speak about, as many African economies are resource-based.

These resources are processed in developing economies and exported via rail corridors, mostly to First World countries.

However, the transport networks in emerging African economies are very disconnected.

“Shipping and rail freight is mature, but passenger and air movement are lacking substantially, so it’s fragmented. That makes industrialisation and value-adding activities difficult to perform; in many cases, whilst the cost of labour is low, no secondary or tertiary-level activities are being performed,” observes Lutchman.

“There are a few emerging economies such as Kenya where financial services and IT, for example, are growing nicely. SA is one of

the most mature economies, and West African countries like Nigeria and Ivory Coast have oil-based economies, so that’s funding some of the infrastructure there, but to a large extent we remain disconnected as a continent from a transport point of view.”

INSPIRING THE YOUTH In June, Lutchman spoke at the DEVAC Youth Summit, a triannual event that offers inspiration and guidance to SA’s young generation across a diverse spectrum of industries, including construction and building.

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 135

GIBB AFRICA

Designed to arm these aspiring individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources essential for successful careers, the summit congregates top-tier industry professionals and experts to provide invaluable advice and mentorship.

Through engaging panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and interactive activities, the event equips youngsters with the requisite tools to thrive in their chosen fields.

“The DEVAC Youth Summit was my personal opportunity to give back to young people that need to frame their world views going forward,” Lutchman shares.

“There’s an element of hopelessness playing out in young 136 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

minds in terms of where the future lies.

I was speaking to university students studying in certain disciplines about what’s next; the country doesn’t exactly have a pipeline to absorb all of the students coming out of universities.”

Lutchman spoke about selfawareness, growing skill sets, and the opportunities and changes coming to the world of work for the youth.

“Interestingly, when I study youth attributes, I find they have a greater sense of community care than politicians do. They are wanting to look after the communities – that’s an absolute of African youth,” he acknowledges.

Another attribute of the younger generation is they take to digital

technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), a lot faster.

“How do you leverage AI to create new work opportunities and ideas? AI has reduced barriers to entry, which is now enabling the youth to think very differently about the world of work.”

Lutchman is also a fellow of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE), the industry body for civil engineering professionals in SA. He dedicates time to the SAICE Ethics Committee, which supports and engages the industry with free, Continuing Professional Development (CPD)-accredited webinars on the concept of ethics.

“We have these webinars with the

intention of creating a more ethical society of civil engineers that practise in the country. That’s the aim of the committee.”

GREATER PROSPECTS Lutchman’s key priorities are to grow GIBB’s sustainability and change certain parts of the business structure to free itself up for greater growth prospects continent-wide and globally.

This includes fostering more partnerships with various entities such as governments, smaller firms, partners, academia, and local technology providers, to name a few.

“Much of our procurement is going that way. We used to stay

technology-agnostic, but now we’re thinking we need to partner with technology providers,” he explains.

The type of people that GIBB employs in the future will also require a rethink as the profession changes, with a lot of AI already being used in the engineering space.

“Data acquisition and analytics, asset management, and providing capacity in terms of institutional support to public sector entities are becoming a real need in the country.

“It’s about transforming the business and using different skill sets and more digital solutions and data analytics to support our clients and help them manage their assets better,” Lutchman concludes.

Tel: 011 519 4600 marketing@gibb.co.za

www.gibb.co.za

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 137

Morne Moller, Director, talks us through Rawson Developers’ recently completed and ongoing residential projects in and around Cape Town Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Andrew Marjoram

138 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

BUILDING HOMES,

DESIGNING LIFESTYLES

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RAWSON DEVELOPERS AFRICA

S

ince 1993, Rawson Developers (Rawson) has successfully built more than 3,500 homes across over 50 different residential developments in Cape Town – the legislative capital of South Africa (SA).

The company was initially founded

by Bill Rawson and Paul Henry, with Carl Nortje later joining the team and now heavily involved on a daily basis as Managing Director.

With over 30 years of experience, Rawson’s extensive expertise covers all aspects of property development, from the conceptualisation phase through to the launch of each new build.

“One of our key strengths is offering a comprehensive, end-to-end service, so everything is like a one-stop shop,” opens Director, Morne Moller.

Whilst each project has its own unique personality and appeal, one

TO HELP COMPLETE YOUR DEVELOPMENTS, HOW DOES RAWSON WORK WITH SUBCONTRACTORS AND THE SUPPLY CHAIN? Morne Moller, Director: “At Maritime Place, we’re using an external contractor. We’re outsourcing project managers, quantity surveyors, and a full professional team that’s managing it for us, but we obviously get involved from a client point of view.

“At Magnolia, we’re doing the whole build ourselves. We’ve got four senior project managers in the office doing all the procurement and planning, with a professional team putting it all together – that’s our standard model.

“From that point, our engineers go out for tender and appoint subcontractors, but we manage them all in-house. That’s similar to what we did for The Trade, which was managed entirely in-house by our internal project management team.”

COULD YOU OUTLINE YOUR CAREER IN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT TO DATE? “My dad is a property developer; I grew up learning all the tricks of the trade from him. The idea was to study quantity surveying and then eventually move over to work with him.

“When I finished my studies, I realised that mixing business with family wasn’t really for me, so I started at a company called Davis Langdon, which is an international consulting firm.

“I met one of the Rawson directors at my sister’s wedding, and I’ve now been here for 14 years.”

140 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

thing that never changes is Rawson’s commitment to creating interior and exterior spaces that complement people’s lifestyles.

As such, the company spends considerable time ensuring each apartment is not only beautiful but also features smart design, first-class finishes, and effortless flow.

“We’ve got a proven track record over the last three decades. With us building the majority of our apartments ourselves, we take personal care,” Moller assures.

“Another point is that we will always be slightly better priced than most developers. If someone builds a block right next to us, we will probably be five to 10 percent cheaper than them, for no reason other than trying to give people value for money and a good investment.”

Through its meticulous planning and in-depth local property knowledge, Rawson gives investors access to some of the best real estate opportunities in Cape Town and even markets and manages properties for them.

IN THE HEART OF CAPE TOWN Having originally started out in Parklands before moving to the Southern Suburbs, including Newlands and Kenilworth, Rawson ventured into the Cape Town central business district (CBD) around 2021.

“We’ve got quite a strong footprint of developments, hotels, and residential blocks in the Cape Town CBD and sitting in Sea Point,” notes Moller.

Rawson’s biggest development in Sea Point – an affluent and densely populated suburb just a few kilometres west of the bustling Cape Town CBD – is Magnolia.

A peaceful oasis of culture, community, and connection, this seaside sanctuary right in the vibrant heart of Sea Point will offer a rare blend of nature’s calm and the city’s convenience.

“ W E ’ V E G OT Q U I T E A ST R O N G FO OT P R I N T O F D E V E LO P M E N TS , H OT E L S , A N D R E S I D E N T I A L B LO C KS I N T H E C A P E TOW N C B D A N D SITTING IN SEA POINT” – M O R N E M O L L E R , D I R E C T O R , R AW S O N D E V E L O P E R S

features clean lines and sophisticated curves; the interiors exude subtle elegance and chic, minimalist comfort at every step.

Each expertly appointed detail reflects timeless sophistication, from premium luxury finishes to the seamless flow of open spaces, creating a home that radiates warmth and exclusivity.

PAARDEN EILAND PIONEERS With the clean scent of the ocean breeze, rhythmic meditation of the lapping waves, and aureate warmth of the Atlantic Seaboard’s world-famous sunsets, Magnolia reflects the refined taste and sophistication of coastal living.

This luxury residence and vibrant social hub has been thoughtfully designed to balance the lush life with a sense of community. Indeed, a sparkling rooftop pool and ample, spacious communal areas will allow for rest and relaxation, whilst the large open atrium and public ground-floor

retail spaces, restaurants, and cafés will enable neighbours to network, connect, and meet up.

Rawson is currently on site at Magnolia, which is expected to be completed in April 2027.

“Magnolia will have 174 apartments and about 1,600 square metres (sqm) of commercial and retail space. We’ll put some coffee shops, restaurants, and small boutiques in there,” notes Moller.

Standing as a future icon of the world-renowned Sea Point cityscape, the building’s eye-catching exterior

In Paarden Eiland, a light industrial area of Cape Town, Rawson is also working on Maritime Place, an ambitious development that promises to establish a thriving community and signals the beginning of an exciting new era for the district.

Set for completion by May 2026, the building will be made up of 334 units and offer a variety of accommodation options, including studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. From compact city living to spacious familyforward comfort, Maritime Place has something for everyone.

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RAWSON DEVELOPERS AFRICA

Refined, minimalist finishes give each unit a calm, effortless elegance, whilst balconies create a refreshing indoor-outdoor space with a range of breathtaking mountain and ocean views on offer.

“We’re the first to actually go in and build a residential block in Paarden Eiland. It has about 3,000 sqm of commercial space split 142 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

between retail, light industrial, and commercial,” details Moller.

“The concept of Maritime Place actually came from Canary Wharf – once an industrial area that started upgrading to residential and commercial. Further down the road, there will be one or two other big developments, so we are pioneering the changing face of Paarden Eiland.”

Steeped in a unique urban, historical atmosphere and complemented by spectacular ocean and mountain views, Maritime Place will be the perfect place for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city whilst only being a few minutes away from the centre of Cape Town.

RAWSON DEVELOPERS AFRICA

“THE TRADE IS THE FIRST EVER H O T E L W E ’ V E D O N E O U R S E LV E S .

IT’S VERY QUIRKY AND FUNKY I M AG I N E A E U R O P E A N H OT E L I N T H E C E N T R E O F C A P E TOW N C B D ” – M O R N E M O L L E R , D I R E C T O R , R AW S O N D E V E L O P E R S

LUXURY AND QUIRKY Elsewhere in the Cape Town CBD, The Trade Boutique Hotel (The Trade) offers 50 unique rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop pool and bar to catch those Cape Town rays – all housed in an historic, post-modern building steeped in nostalgic attention to detail.

Recently completed in 2024, The Trade offers a colourful, one-of-a-kind stay where thoughtfully designed interiors balance luxury with quirky touches in a nod to the building’s iconic architecture.

With three individually designed themes to choose from – Fred, Ginger, and Ruby – The Trade’s rooms and suites are inspired by art meets commerce and designed to make guests feel right at home, furnished with a living room and full kitchen as well as bathroom amenities.

“The Trade is the first ever hotel we’ve done ourselves. It’s very quirky and funky – imagine a European hotel in the centre of Cape Town CBD,” Moller tells us.

“We’ve been running it since November last year, and it’s going really well. The hotel is close to everything as it’s very central.”

Meanwhile, Rawson is currently busy developing Cape Town CBD, including finishing off the The York, which will be ready in September this year and add another 76 apartments to the area, as well as working on The Landing, which will contribute an additional 174 apartments.

With the completion of Magnolia and Maritime Place also on the horizon, Rawson continues to build homes and design lifestyles in the city.

Tel: +2121 271 0443 info@rawson-developers.co.za

www.rawson-developers.co.za

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EMBEDDED

IN VIRTUOSITY

Tesmec Group continues to expertly reinforce its commitment to providing smarter, more sustainable, and efficient solutions for construction and mining operations around the world. We catch up with Flavio Villa, CTO, and Marco Paredi, Business Unit Director of the Trenching and Surface Mining Division, to hear about the company’s latest innovations Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Ben Weaver

144 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

TESMEC GROUP EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 145

TESMEC GROUP EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

S

ince we last spoke with Tesmec Group (Tesmec), the European market in which the company operates continues to be a dynamic and evolving environment, full of both challenges and opportunities.

“There is significant momentum in emerging segments, particularly in the energy cable sector, and a stabilisation in traditional sectors, such as fibre optics,” introduces Flavio Villa, CTO of the company’s Trenching and Surface Mining Division.

This shift reflects broader changes in Europe’s infrastructure priorities, driven by the energy transition and growing need for resilient, efficient transmission networks.

In this context, Tesmec offers a competitive advantage through its integrated trenching and

simultaneous mechanical cable-laying services.

In essence, the company is not only keeping pace with the transformation of the industry but helping to drive it and set new standards through innovation, efficiency, and specialised solutions tailored for the energy sector’s burgeoning future.

GLOBAL SLATE OF PROJECTS Tesmec is currently involved in several key projects around the world that showcase the strength, versatility, and environmental advantages of its technologies and exceptional range of machines.

In Guinea’s Boffa region, one of the world’s richest sources of highquality bauxite, Tesmec is working on a surface mining project, utilising its

dedication of the individuals who are part of the team – professionals with deep industry knowledge and a strong commitment to excellence.

WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST COMPANY ACHIEVEMENT?

“What truly sets Tesmec apart is its customer oriented mindset, a core pillar of the company’s strategy. This approach is deeply embedded across every level of the organisation – from engineering and product development, where machines are designed to adapt to specific customer needs and project requirements, to quality control, service, and after-sales support.

“Every solution delivered is guided by the goal of responding proactively and precisely to client challenges.

“This alignment of technical

Flavio Villa, CTO – Trenching and

expertise and customer focus

Surface Mining Division:

is what makes Tesmec a trusted

“What both Tesmec and I are most

partner across the world. It’s a point

proud of is, without a doubt, our

of immense pride for the company,

people. The success and continued

reflecting not only its culture but

innovation of the company are

also its long-term vision for growth,

driven by the expertise, talent, and

innovation, and customer success.”

146 | Construction Outlook Issue 1

state-of-the-art mining vehicle, the 1475 XL EVO Rock Hawg.

The goal is to achieve high production rates from the deposit’s hard, unfractured surface.

“Our precision cutting has delivered a consistent, fine grain size that is ready for transport, eliminating the need for additional crushing and optimising downstream efficiency,” Marco Paredi, Business Unit Director, explains.

Elsewhere, Tesmec remains active at a UK limestone quarry operation using its Surface Miner 1150 EVO Dynamic Drive.

Due to stringent environmental restrictions, traditional drilling and blasting methods are not a viable option. Therefore, the company’s surface miner, equipped with an effective dust suppression system, offers a clean and productive solution, demonstrating Tesmec’s ability to meet regulatory demands whilst maximising extraction efficiency and reducing operational costs.

Meanwhile, in Saudi Arabia, the company is making a significant contribution to Master Gas System Expansion – Phase 3, a flagship initiative by Saudi Aramco to transition power plants from oil to natural gas in support of the country’s net zero ambitions.

“For this large-scale infrastructure programme, Tesmec is employing its 1875 XL EVO Chainsaw Trencher, capable of cutting two metres (m) deep and 2.13-m-wide trenches to host large pipelines, designed for trenching in hard rock in the most demanding conditions,” Villa affirms.

BALANCED EXPERTISE Tesmec maintains a strategic balance between local and global suppliers, recognising the unique value that both bring to the company’s operations and overall product excellence.

“Building strong relationships with local partners allows the business to

TESMEC GROUP EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

“A N U N R I VA L L E D L E V E L O F R E L I A B I L I T Y A N D A D A P TA B I L I T Y M A K E S T E S M E C THE IDEAL CHOICE FOR CHALLENGING O P E R AT I O N S A C R O S S A W I D E R A N G E O F INDUSTRIES” – M A R C O P A R E D I , B U S I N E S S U N I T D I R E C T O R - T R E N C H I N G A N D S U R FA C E MINING DIVISION, TESMEC GROUP

closely monitor quality standards, foster mutual trust, and develop tailored solutions that contribute to the overall excellence of the final product.

“This commitment aligns with one of the core pillars of Tesmec’s strategy – the pursuit of superior quality,” Villa excites.

In the sectors where Tesmec operates – such as mining, energy, and infrastructure – reliability and cuttingedge technology is fundamental to ensuring customer success.

At the same time, the company combines local expertise with a global network of suppliers, partnering with leading international businesses to integrate the most advanced technologies into its machines.

“This balanced sourcing approach ensures that every Tesmec solution not only meets the highest performance standards but also supports local economies and remains adaptable to the specific demands of each project,” Paredi explains.

STRIVING FOR SUSTAINABILITY Villa is keen to highlight the significant sustainability-related advantages of Tesmec’s solutions, which reflect the company’s deep commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation.

“Sustainability is a core pillar of Tesmec’s mission, driving continuous efforts to reduce environmental impact through both technological

and operational improvements,” he acclaims.

“Our trenchers and surface miners are designed not only for performance but also to minimise emissions and environmental disruption.”

For example, a single surface miner can outperform multiple traditional machines, reducing transportation requirements and CO2 emissions.

On average, Tesmec equipment helps reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) by up to 68 percent.

Meanwhile, in mining applications, the company’s surface miners eliminate the need for explosives, significantly reducing levels of dust, noise, and vibration, thereby ensuring safer and cleaner operations.

TESMEC GROUP EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

“ S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y I S A C O R E P I L L A R O F TESMEC’S MISSION, DRIVING CONTINUOUS E F F O R T S T O R E D U C E E N V I R O N M E N TA L I M PAC T T H R O U G H B OT H T E C H N O LO G I C A L A N D O P E R AT I O N A L I M P R O V E M E N T S ” – F L AV I O V I L L A , C T O - T R E N C H I N G A N D S U R FA C E M I N I N G D I V I S I O N , TESMEC GROUP

“Moreover, by integrating excavation and crushing into a single step, these machines produce uniform, reusable material that requires no primary crushing – streamlining processes whilst preserving the environment,” Villa elaborates.

Beyond its products, Tesmec also supports sustainability through responsible business practices, community engagement, and ongoing investment in R&D aimed at advancing environmentally friendly technologies.

THE IDEAL LONG-TERM PARTNER What continues to define the company, setting it apart from its competition, is its resolute commitment to quality, advanced technology, and customer orientated support.

“Tesmec stands by customers every step of the way, supporting them in the choice of the right machine for their project, through to after-sales service,” Villa prides.

Moreover, Tesmec trenchers and surface miners are built to the highest quality standards, engineered to be adapted to specific customer

requirements and the most demanding project conditions where the company’s competitors may struggle to deliver.

“An unrivalled level of reliability and adaptability makes Tesmec the ideal choice for challenging operations across a wide range of industries,” Paredi highlights.

What further differentiates the company is its worldwide after-sales support, from the machine dig-in to ongoing maintenance, spare parts, training, and technical assistance, ensuring Tesmec’s equipment continues to perform optimally throughout its lifecycle.

TESMEC GROUP EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

TLM di Andreani Antonio SRL is a family-run business company with over 35 years of history , based in Gradara (PU- Italy) , highly specialized in the manufacturing of hydraulic cylinders.

Hydraulic cylinders for over 35 years Technology, Innovation and Quality

With an yearly production of over 130.000 hydraulic cylinders , with sizes up to bore 450 mm and strokes of 5.000 mm , TLM supplies the markets of earth moving machines , mining machines , truck mounted cranes , telescopic handlers , forklifts , concrete pumps manufacturers.

Our hydraulic cylinders are used worldwide and they are designed to operate in the most challenging environmental conditions while always ensuring the maximum level of reliability , manufactured according to the quality standards ISO 9001:2015 , ISO 3834-2:2021 , ISO 14001:2015.

All the processes are carried out through cutting edges technologies following the “lean manufacturing” logic , with deliveries made just in time directly to the customer’s assembly line.

E-mail contact for sales: francesco.andreani@tlm-oleodinamica.it Phone number for sales contact: 0039 0541 969922 Website: www.tlm-oleodinamica.it

“Our comprehensive product portfolio enables the right solution for every application, whether it’s trenching, surface mining, or cablelaying,” Villa prides.

DIVERSE CAPABILITIES To date, Tesmec has firmly established itself across a plethora of global industries, including fibre optics, energy, pipelines, surface mining, and civil construction.

Rather than expanding into new markets, the company is concentrating on strengthening its technological capabilities within these sectors, leveraging its diverse and flexible product portfolio to address evolving customer needs and future challenges.

“One major area of focus moving forwards will be the surface mining industry, where Tesmec sees significant growth potential. Our Dynamic Drive technology and Rock

Hawg solutions aim to transform operations by boosting productivity, precision, and cost-efficiency,” Villa states.

Looking ahead, the company is committed to reinforcing its leadership by continuing to improve product quality, elevate customer satisfaction, and invest in innovation.

“Our Dynamic Drive technology is central to this strategy, enabling efficient and selective extraction of materials like coal, bauxite, gypsum, and phosphates – ultimately redefining industry standards,” he concludes.

These innovations are not just technical advancements; they represent an ongoing commitment to providing smarter, more efficient, and sustainable solutions to the company’s global partners in the mining and energy sectors.

Furthermore, in the coming year, Tesmec will continue to invest

in technology, talent, and global partnerships to meet current demands and set new benchmarks for reliability and performance worldwide.

This proactive, hands-on approach is a cornerstone of the Tesmec experience and one of the reasons clients trust the company as a longterm partner.

Tel: +39 035 42 32 911 marketing.trenchers@tesmec.com

www.tesmec.com

Construction Outlook Issue 1 | 149

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