Mac’s Brewbar Seismic Upgrade

In 2020, Property For Industry Limited engaged Built Construction Group to carry out a seismic upgrade of Shed 22 at 23–33 Cable Street (also known as 4 Taranaki Street), Wellington Waterfront. The building is home to popular Mac’s Brewbar, operated by Kāpura, Wellington Hospitality Group.

The circa $2 million upgrade was required so that Shed 22 would meet the New Building Standard (NBS) for structural integrity, with a structural rating of 80% NBS.

As a little background, Shed 22 is one of three heritage buildings marking the southern limit of the Wellington Waterfront. The building has historic value for its connection to the shipping industry and having been designed by Wellington Harbour Board’s then Chief Engineer, James Marchbanks.

The seismic upgrade involved major demolition work, installation of substantial foundation beams, strengthening of concrete walls and ceiling cross bracing, then reinstatement of the existing fit-outs on all three levels.

We worked from the ground floor up, and moved quickly so that Kāpura could resume their functions as early as possible. Mac’s Brewbar remained operational throughout our work.

The project was completed in 2022. At its height, we had around 12 builders working on it. We also engaged subcontractors to carry out:

• Scaffolding – creating a safe loading bay for structural steel<
• Civil engineering – anchoring piles to ground beam
• Steel fabrication – installation of structural steel
• Electrical work – internal isolation and reinstatement of electrical fittings
• Plumbing – removal and reinstatement of bathrooms and kitchens
• Tiling – bathrooms, once reinstated
• Mechanical work – upgrades to air conditioning and extraction
• Fire services – removal and reinstatement of sprinklers
• Painting and plastering – reinstated fit-out.

The seismic work has strengthened Shed 22, making it safe for many years into the future.

We found the steel fabricators especially good to deal with – they were extremely organised. The tenants were also helpful throughout and good to work alongside.