Dymocks Sydney – Heritage Building

In 1879, William Dymock commenced a bookseller business, as the business grew, the Dymock Family purchased the old Royal Hotel in George Street, Sydney. It was here where the present Dymocks Building was completed in 1932.

The Dymocks Building, affectionately dubbed “The Block,” was envisioned by architect F.H.B. Wilton in the esteemed “Interwar Commercial Palazzo Style.” Originally intended to accommodate a more eclectic range of retail offerings, it catered to the “less elite” or “bazaar” shopping experience, hosting specialty businesses offering an array of unique goods and services. At street level, it proudly housed the renowned Dymock bookshop.

Throughout World War II and subsequent years, the building served as office space for various government departments. It wasn’t until the 1980s that The Dymocks Building underwent a restoration, reaffirming its dedication to the distinctive businesses it was originally designed for. Today, it boasts over 120 specialty stores and businesses, specializing in fashion, weddings, jewellery, health and wellbeing.

The ground floor of the Dymocks Building features a breathtaking terrazzo floor. This flooring material embeds small pieces of marble, quartz, granite, or glass chips, which is then polished to achieve a smooth finish. Its vibrant patterns exude timeless elegance, perfectly complementing the building’s architectural splendour.

Slip-Resistance

Yet, despite its stunning design, the management faced a challenge when slipping incidents became a concern. Replacing this heritage listed floor was out of the question, and finding a solution that wouldn’t harm the floor posed an even greater dilemma. While anti-slip treatments were considered, they were deemed non grata because these solutions are hydrochloric acid, a highly corrosive chemical. Besides damaging the surface beyond repair, anti-slip treatments are not independently certified and can create dull patches in the surface.

Enter Stellmann Non-Slip Clear, our premium quality non-slip coating that proved to be the answer. Unlike treatments, it is a durable coating which doesn’t compromise the surface it’s applied to. What’s more, it can be removed without causing any damage, thanks to the innovative Stellmann Coating & Paint Stripper, a non-toxic solution free of methylene chloride.

In an initial trial, our clear non-slip coating, professionally applied by Prime Industrial, stood the test of time, maintaining the required P4 slip-resistance rating despite high foot traffic and daily mechanical cleaning. Additionally, it offered protection against scratches and wear, safeguarding the floor’s pristine appearance.

Impressed by the results, the management of the Dymocks Building opted to upgrade all heritage-listed floors with Stellmann Non-Slip Clear PRO. Not only does this ensure compliance with Australian Safety Standards, but it also provides pedestrians with peace of mind, even in wet conditions.

In conclusion, Stellmann Non-Slip Clear PRO was selected over anti-slip treatments because it protects the flooring rather than etching into the surface. Moreover, our clear coating does not alter the original look of the surface while it can be easily removed if required. Furthermore, it provides superior durability in terms of slip-resistance even while being exposed to high traffic on a daily basis.