Projects
Docklands
Seafarers Project – Our Work on a Landmark Melbourne Development
We were thrilled to be involved in the Seafarers project in Docklands, a truly iconic waterfront development combining luxury apartments and a high-end hotel. The project brings together contemporary architecture and heritage preservation, creating a unique living experience on Melbourne’s waterfront.
Our role was to deliver commercial tiling and stonework across the site, including the hotel lobby’s feature stone wall, the GRC panels on Heritage Listed Shed 5 and detailed paving and brickwork throughout the lobby, restaurant, and other public areas. It was the kind of project that demanded skill, attention to detail, and a close collaborative approach with both the builders and the architects and interior designers who drafted the project.
Architectural Feature Wall – Precision, Collaboration and Expertise
One of the standout elements we worked on was the main feature wall in the hotel lobby. Each stone piece varied in thickness from 30mm up to 150mm, with some skins weighing up to 800 kilograms. Every piece was meticulously planned and installed based on the architectural drawings, ensuring each panel was placed to an allocated section on the wall.
Working closely with the architects and interior designers, our team developed a method to safely install the wall while achieving the intended visual effect — a natural, layered look reminiscent of a cliff face. This collaboration was crucial, as the wall wasn’t just about tiling; it was about translating the designers’ vision into a structurally sound, lasting reality.
Akkari Tiling prides itself on handling this type of complex work because only a handful of contractors can deliver projects of this scale and intricacy. This is due to a combination of factors: the uniqueness of the project, the specialized methods of fixing, the materials themselves and the fact that these projects are usually in iconic locations.
We take pride in knowing that people can walk past and see our work — the way every piece fits together — and recognise that our team was part of something truly impressive.
Projects like this are exactly what we love. They’re technically demanding and require solutions that most tiling companies couldn’t execute. Seeing the finished wall come together perfectly is an immensely satisfying experience.
Shed 5 – Preserving Heritage with Quality GRC Panels
Another key part of our work was the Heritage Listed Shed 5 – an important element of the Seafarers site. Icon Construction carefully removed the old asbestos sheeting first and then our team installed the new cladding using Glass-Reinforced Concrete (GRC) panels.
These are custom-made panels, designed to be both durable and visually authentic and to replicate the texture and character of the original structure. Each panel was mechanically fixed using stainless steel fixings, ensuring stability while preserving the historic aesthetic of Shed 5. Working on a heritage-listed element like this required extra care and precision and it was a privilege to contribute to a part of the project that respects Melbourne’s maritime history while meeting modern engineering standards.
Material Variety – Bringing It All Together
Our work extended across the lobby, restaurant, and public areas of Seafarers, involving a combination of materials that had to work together seamlessly.
- Brick face tiling was installed throughout the lobby and along certain floor areas, creating a sense of continuity and texture.
- Castlemaine Crazy Paving was laid across the restaurant area, giving a natural, rustic feel that complemented the interior design.
- Natural stone and GRC panels were used strategically to enhance feature walls and integrate with other design elements.
The challenge was not only technical but also aesthetic — ensuring all these materials harmonised to deliver a cohesive and high-quality finish throughout the public areas.
Pride in Craftsmanship
Walking through the finished Seafarers project is an incredible experience. From the dramatic stone feature wall in the lobby to the carefully restored Shed 5 and the variety of floor and wall finishes, every detail demonstrates precision, skill, and thoughtful execution.
Projects like this highlight what sets Akkari Tiling apart — the ability to handle complex, high-profile commercial work that few others can. It’s not just about laying tiles or panels; it’s about translating architectural vision into a finished space that stands up to scrutiny and lasts for years.
Being part of a project that shapes Melbourne’s waterfront and incorporates both luxury design and heritage preservation is something our team is genuinely proud of. It’s a reminder of why we love this work: the challenge, the creativity, and ultimately, seeing the results make a real impression on everyone who walks through the doors.
If you’re looking for a tiling partner who can handle complex, high-profile projects with precision and care, get in touch with us at Akkari Tiling. We’d love to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.