High Street Preston, VIC

Lean Construction at High Street, Preston

The future of Australian construction is lean, fast, and highly efficient. The 18-storey High Street, Preston development is the definitive proof. More than just a striking tower, featuring 235 modern build-to-rent apartments, this project represents a ground-breaking success story, leveraging lean construction principles to deliver affordable, quality homes and superior outcomes for all stakeholders. The building also includes 6 retail spaces, a three-level basement carpark, and premium resident amenities, such as a landscaped courtyard, a residents’ lounge, and a rooftop terrace.

As a solutions partner who is driven by a commitment to innovation, Studco were proud to collaborate with Kapitol and Express Interiors to bring this cutting-edge vision to life.

High Street, Preston was built with the philosophy of lean construction at its core. This initiative, spearheaded by Kapitol, prioritises the reduction of waste in raw materials, time, and cost throughout the construction process, resulting in a more efficient and sustainable build.

Studco played a crucial role in this process by supplying 100% custom pre-cut steel studs. These were manufactured to the exact lengths required, completely eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site cutting.

While on-site cutting is a traditional and viable installation method, it has several drawbacks that were mitigated by Studco’s provision of customised pre-cut lengths:

• Time: Labourers typically spend valuable time measuring, marking, and cutting each stud.
• Waste: Cutting on-site generates construction waste that must be managed and disposed of.
• Safety: The lack of waste and additional tools on-site made for a safer, less hazardous working environment.

By shifting the cutting process to Studco’s controlled manufacturing environment, Kapitol estimates that the project saved an astounding 600 hours, or 75 workdays, of on-site labour. This fantastic outcome proves the merits of both lean construction and close collaboration between builders, contractors, and manufacturers.

Seems obvious! But it takes extra effort and planning from everyone.
When you walk on site it is noticeably cleaner!

Andrew Deveson, Kapitol Group

Studco steel building products are proudly manufactured in Australia using Australian BlueScope steel. By manufacturing locally, in Croydon, VIC, Studco has the flexibility necessary to work closely with project partners, a benefit exemplified throughout the High Street Preston build.

Manufacturing in Australia also ensures that Studco products meet the highest quality standards. Studco were able to implement stringent quality assurance measures, guaranteeing the pre-cut steel studs were delivered with the precision required for the project’s exacting specifications.

While lean construction was the leading philosophy for this build, it does not mean that there was a compromise on architectural design. In addition to providing the steel framing, and ceiling components, Studco also supplied architectural finishings that added the final touch to this groundbreaking building.

EZ Concept’s EzyJamb EZC architrave-free door frames were used throughout the apartments, ensuring that the project’s modern construction method was also reflected in its clean and minimalist design.  The original EzyJamb Classic Adjust jambs provided a contemporary element that complemented the building’s overall aesthetic.

SlideSet cavity sliding doors were also used throughout, continuing the stunning, seamless architectural appeal.

Studco is constantly striving for improvement and seeking ways to be at the forefront of construction innovation. It is rewarding to work with partners such as Kapitol and Express Interiors who share this same proactive mindset.

The collective outcome of this collaboration was increased efficiency, a cleaner job site, and a high-quality building that can act as a blueprint for the future of Australian construction.

If you are interested in learning more about Studco’s innovative products and services, or if you have a project in mind, please reach out to our team today.