Modernization is about more than just updating technology – it's about returning systems to their peak potential. At the Sydney Masonic Centre (SMC), our team embraced this philosophy, bringing the building’s circular elevators full circle by restoring their original innovative design and combining it with cutting-edge functionality.
You can’t miss the Sydney Masonic Centre.
Located in the Sydney’s Central Business District, the unique concrete structure, which first opened its doors in 1979, really stands out from the crowd. Designed by the architectural firm Joseland & Gilling, the SMC, today serving as one of the premier event venues in Australia, has been described as "an outstanding and powerful example of the Brutalist architectural style."
The design of the interior is just as striking. Step into the Marble Foyer, and you’re confronted with two huge cylindrical columns stretching up to the ceiling of the high atrium. But these aren't just for show – they're functional elevator shafts providing access to the venue’s 13 event spaces.
"At the SMC, we’re proud to provide convenient access for everyone to all of our 13 unique event spaces," says Paul Davison, General Manager at the SMC. "Our elevators play a big part in that and help us to cater for a wide range of events from small workshops and training sessions, to lavish conferences, VIP dinners, and cocktail events."
"It was a really unique project to work on," says Brett Elliott, our Project Manager for the modernization. "I don't think anyone on our team has worked in a round shaft before."
Given the singular shape of the elevators and the shafts, every part of the installation had special requirements, and every piece of equipment had to be custom-made. This meant that the team had to be incredibly precise in their measurements.
"The doors were the most challenging aspect as they’re really more of a banana shape than semicircular," says Brett with a smile. The team on-site took a huge number of measurements from 12 different points around each shaft to confirm they had the right angles and curvature, to ensure everything was going to fit. "Our engineers in the factory and on-site did an amazing job. The curved doors open and close so smoothly you’d think they’ve been installing them for years."
A full modernization project is typically necessary for elevators over 35 years old. In that time frame, a lot of things can happen, particularly in safety regulations. In this case, safety standards for accessing elevator shafts had evolved substantially. The original maintenance ladder no longer met updated requirements. So, as part of the project, our team developed an innovative solution: a new collapsible ladder that can be lowered into the pit and securely locked in place when maintenance is required – and can be easily removed and stored outside the shaft when not in use.
"It’s a simple solution that helps improve safety," says Brett. "And it ticks all the boxes for the new regulations."
The interiors of the elevators were also totally redesigned to meet the customer’s specific requests. The elevators were custom-fitted with 12 panels, curved railings, and LED lights – to create a welcoming atmosphere in keeping with the rest of the venue.
"The Schindler team did a great job replacing the elevators," says Paul Davison. "There was minimal impact on our events as they worked around our schedule, and the new interior designs are fantastic. We're extremely happy with the outcome."