Curtin University – TL Robertson Library

Outcomes

The Client

Curtin University, located in Western Australia, is one of the country’s leading tertiary institutions, known for its innovation in teaching and research. As part of its long-term vision for campus transformation, Curtin invested in a major refurbishment of the TL Robertson Library, a vital facility supporting tens of thousands of students and staff year-round. The upgrade represented a significant step forward in creating flexible, future-ready learning environments.

Lendlease, a globally recognised construction and development firm, was appointed as the head contractor for the library redevelopment. With a track record of delivering large-scale institutional projects, Lendlease entrusted Envar to handle the HVAC design and construct contract due to its proven capabilities in complex live-environment installations. The TL Robertson Library refurbishment was both architecturally and operationally significant. It aimed to revitalise over 18,000m² of aging infrastructure into a high-performance, contemporary facility aligned with Curtin’s academic and sustainability goals.

What we achieved with our customer

The TL Robertson Library refurbishment called for more than just a technical upgrade; it demanded delicate execution within a continuously operational academic hub. Envar was engaged by Lendlease to manage the complete HVAC scope under a Design & Construct contract, ensuring full alignment with Curtin University’s energy and performance objectives.

The project commenced with the careful isolation and make-safe of all existing electrical, BMS, ductwork, and chilled/hot water services. Following demolition preparation, Envar relocated critical chilled water infrastructure—including underground and ground-floor piping—to facilitate construction of the new services tower. This foundational work was key to maintaining uninterrupted operations across the library.

As different student zones became available during the staged refurbishment, Envar progressively delivered and installed HVAC systems across the facility. Four new central air handling units were installed on Levels 5 and 6 to service floors 2 through 7. Prefabricated components were used wherever possible to reduce on-site installation time and minimise disruption.

A major milestone was the seamless integration of the HVAC system into Curtin’s existing Central Energy Plant. This required advanced controls engineering to ensure full compatibility with Curtin’s campus-wide energy systems. Despite operating during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Envar completed commissioning and final certification in close collaboration with all stakeholders, delivering on time and to specification.