New Rydalmere Showroom for Pool & Spa Products by Waterco

Devastating fire paves the way for a cutting edge new Waterco facility.

Waterco Ltd is excited to announce that it has returned "home" in time for Christmas, following the devastating fire that destroyed its Rydalmere office in January 2015.

"We're thrilled that just 21 months after the fire that gutted our head office building we have moved back in," says Bryan Goh, Waterco group marketing director. "Our building is now better than ever, which is a great outcome for both customers and staff.

"Thanks to the support of our wonderful staff, customers, suppliers, Steadfast I C Frith and our insurer VERO we remained 100 per cent operational from virtually day one after the fire. However, it was a great feeling for all of us to return 'home'."

That new home has been designed by one of Sydney's top architects, Studio CCP Associate Santo Talarico, whose previous projects have included the Subaru Australia All 4 The Driver Dealership upgrade and AWE Limited's corporate fit out.

Bryan is full of praise for Studio CCP's design, which he says provides state-of-the-art facilities that will take the company well into the future.

"While we would have preferred not to have had the inconvenience and distress that accompanied losing our previous building, we are now looking at the positive outcomes that resulted," Bryan says. "Our engineering department is among the beneficiaries, with a fully-tooled workshop, offices and sound testing facilities for products. Research and development of cutting edge products has always been at the forefront of Waterco's business, and these new facilities will really enhance the capabilities of our engineering team."

The new building, with its recognisable "blade" tower, opens into an airy reception area with beverage area and Welsh slate feature wall. The entire space is flooded with natural light from the stairwell.

The large new showroom has been designed to display Waterco's huge product range to advantage, while allowing customers to view everything in comfort. Products are showcased on slat walls, plinths and slat pergolas, while windows adorned with applique transfers depicting the recognisable Waterco splashes, allow plenty of light into the space.

The building complies fully with the facilities requirements for disabled visitors and staff, including a lift to the first floor as well as appropriate toilets and showers.

The new building design also accommodates the company's belief in providing healthy lifestyle opportunities for staff and doing its bit for a healthy planet too. Not only is there low carbon footprint LED lighting throughout, there is a fully functioning gymnasium, as well as breakout areas on the ground and first floors for staff to discuss business over a relaxing coffee with their customers.

"We have also taken a modern approach to the furniture, workstations, training facility, boardroom and three meeting rooms," Bryan says "Staff in the administration area will be surrounded by 114 pot plants to take a little of the stress out of the day, while customer service has been designed to encourage a team environment.

"We look forward to hanging Christmas decorations in our bright new building in the coming weeks and to welcoming our clients and partners to celebrate our homecoming in the near future."

Cutting edge new Waterco facility