“Every detail was considered and meticulously planned before a single wire was run”
SITUATION
In 2017, Celebrity Chef Andre Ursini commissioned his second restaurant project — a renovated bluestone building located on Kensington Road, Rose Park. An affluent restaurant like Orso required electrical architecture to reflect the high-end patrons it seeks to attract. As such, DNA were awarded the notable contract to ensure quality underpinned every decision made during the 12-month project.
TASK
Without any firm designs or scope of requirements delivered, DNA assessed client requirements and constructed a plan comprising practical and elegant solutions. The premises was an empty shell of an old furniture store, which DNA would transform into a into a functional restaurant with open kitchen, alfresco dining, cellar and upstairs offices and boardroom.
“The absence of a brief or scope of requirements was a significant commercial factor of the Orso project. Our team was shown an empty work-site, and upon inspection DNA were tasked with creating a vision, developing a plan and proposing a timeline to complete the work,” said DNA director Adam McLeod.
During the entire construction process DNAs primary focus was to retain heritage features to showcase in the end product.
ACTION
Work commenced in January 2018 with DNA deploying a large team of six electrical experts — from site supervisors, leading-hands, tradesmen and apprentices. Utilising computer software, DNA designed electrical layouts and constructed client approvals via email. Tablets, iPads and mobile phones ensured constant communication between workers while on-site, putting DNA and the client on the same page throughout the entire process. The scope of work comprised:
Rewiring existing heritage listed building
Installing new consumer mains, submains, main meter board and distribution boards
Wiring new kitchen extension to the rear of building
Designing and wiring DALI/KNX lighting control and automation systems*
Installing KNX touchscreens for lighting and automation control*
Wiring and installing MRA audio system*
Installing provisions for solar carport and voltage optimiser
Installing exit and emergency lighting
When asked about the most significant accomplishment on the Orso project, Mr. McLeod noted the lighting installation: “The lighting installation at Orso's is our proudest accomplishment. It comprises over 300 lighting points, including LED downlights, LED strip lighting in cabinetry, stair tread lighting, spotlights, uplighters, garden lighting, and external feature lighting. The result is stunning.”
RESULTS
With over 2175 working hours on the project, DNA put the final touches on the Orso restaurant electrical architecture in November 2018. The restaurant opened without delay to eager patrons later that month, and was described by critics as ‘sparing no expense’ in transforming the former bluestone manor into an airy and fashionable dining experience.
A testament to DNA’s quality, the company was awarded a Certificate of High Commendation at the NECA SA/NT 2019 Excellence Award for its work on the Orso Restaurant. “We’re extremely proud of our teams’ work on Orso. Every detail was considered and meticulously planned before a single wire was run. The hardwork and extra hours of research really paid off, and the result speaks for itself,” said Mr. McLeod.
On the basis of this project, DNA’s site manager has now secured additional projects to manage due to his excellent work ethic and can-do attitude — an ideology that flows throughout the entire DNA team.
* Lighting conceptual design, KNX, and MRA commissioning were provided by Atmosphere Design Pty Ltd