Heritage listed DIMMEY’S has been a Richmond landmark since 1878 with its famous clock tower, the quintessential icon of this historic site, constructed in 1910.

Beginning as a textile fabrics store DIMMEY’S evolved into a quality goods store during the 1930’s Depression. In the ensuing years it became the most prominent bargain store in Melbourne.

In 2012 the store shut and, after a lengthy planning process, Heritage Victoria has overseen preservation of key elements of the building’s exterior. Armsby Architects proposed a creating a new western façade that was similar to the existing  façades to the east and north.

Crema Construction, the builder, faced the challenges of the location, in a laneway, creating logistic issues and speed of construction became a vital consideration. The brick inlay system introduced to the Australian market by Robertson’s in 1999 provided the solution. Creating these unique brick elements off site and allowing them to be quickly and efficiently positioned was achieved by using the brick inlay system for concrete precast panels. This approach allowed the panels to carry the load and provide the genuine clay brick façades required.

Creating a unique arched brick bond pattern was designed and planned carefully by Robertson Façade Systems well before any thin brick was laid. Using the Robertson’s process also
guaranteed that each panel would be identical ensuring there were no issues with alignment of the brick bond. Robertson’s staff worked with Cambar Precast to ensure the planned outcome became reality.

Robertson’s brick inlay system has been used in many projects around Australia.

The brick inlay system holds the thin brick in place during the concrete pour allowing a traditional brick finish to buildings constructed from precast concrete panels. Thin brick imbedded in concrete creates the appearance of perfectly laid brickwork while having structural performance and providing the speed and convenience of panelised construction. Current projects include the Blacktown Mount
Druitt Hospital, Blacktown, South East Water Headquarters, Frankston and the Knox Private Hospital, Wantirna.

They offer a variety of brick facing tiles for hand laid or precast applications. Smooth, glazed and textured products are available with matching corner and ledge pieces ensuring authentic brick continuity. The same thin brick tiles are ideal for cladding lightweight structures or renovating buildings. They provide a light, colourfast, durable surface with the warm characteristics of brick.

For more information visit http://www.robertsons.net.au/