Originally constructed in the 1970s, the Woodside building had reached the point where a conventional refurbishment would not deliver the contemporary appearance or performance expected of a modern commercial workplace. Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, the project team chose to reimagine the existing structure through a complete facade transformation. Altech Systems developed a fully custom aluminium louvre solution, with JW Projects supplying and installing the finished system across the building envelope.

The challenge

Renovating an existing building presented significant challenges before fabrication could begin. With very limited structural documentation available, fixing locations, structural members, and support details all had to be physically verified on site before the louvre system could be fully engineered.

The architect's design intent called for a slender vertical louvre profile — requiring a purpose-designed aluminium extrusion that could achieve the desired proportions while remaining structurally robust and practical to manufacture and install. The resulting facade also needed to wrap the building seamlessly, negotiating corners, roof overhangs, and varying building geometry whilst maintaining consistent blade spacing across every elevation.

Design and install process

Developing the system required close collaboration between the architect, builder, Altech Systems, and JW Projects throughout the design and construction phases. Because the existing structure was largely undocumented, ceiling cavities and wall construction were physically inspected before fixing details could be finalised — allowing the team to accurately locate structural members and design a secure fixing methodology without compromising the existing building.

Manufactured from New Zealand extruded aluminium and finished in a durable powder coat, the custom system that was developed delivered the slim architectural appearance envisioned by the architect alongside the strength required for long-term performance. Beyond aesthetics, the density of the vertical louvres creates an effective external shading layer, reducing solar heat gain and contributing to improved thermal comfort and lower reliance on mechanical heating and cooling.

To maximise installation efficiency, louvres were assembled into prefabricated panels in Altech's workshop using purpose-built jigs that ensured every blade was positioned with absolute consistency. Completed panels were then transported to site and installed onto pre-prepared structural aluminium framing.

Certain areas required bespoke detailing. The eastern elevation — where the louvre system intersected with roof overhangs and a deck structure — required individual measuring and trimming of components to maintain the clean architectural lines established across the rest of the facade. JW Projects coordinated installation to achieve precise alignment across multiple elevations, producing a seamless architectural skin that appears continuous despite the complexity behind it.

The end result

Today, the Woodside building bears little resemblance to its former self. The bespoke louvre facade has transformed an ageing commercial building into a contemporary architectural landmark, introducing depth, rhythm, and texture while improving environmental performance. The project demonstrates how innovative facade design can unlock the value of existing buildings and provide a compelling alternative to demolition and new construction.