Luke Cahill
Bell Station Named Among World’s Most Beautiful, Showcasing Mechcon’s Metal Fabrication Expertise
Reading Time: 7 minutes and 25 seconds
How’s this for some exciting news?
Bell Station has just been named one of the most beautiful stations in the world! This stunning spot in Preston was part of Melbourne’s Big Build and Level Crossing Removal Project, which aims to make the city safer and more connected. Here at Mechcon Welding & Fabrication, we’re chuffed to have played a role in bringing this project to life. Our team took on the time-critical challenge of fabricating stainless steel handrails that were both sturdy and stylish, designed to fit perfectly with Bell Station’s modern look. With 20 years in the business, we know what it takes to meet tough standards while keeping things looking sharp. From start to finish, we worked closely with the team to ensure everything was spot on. Projects like these remind us why we love what we do!
Table of Contents
The Vision Behind Bell Station’s Design
Bell Station is something special. With design features inspired by Preston’s old rooftops and a splash of local art, the station’s look is one-of-a-kind. You can see it in the 3D facades and the eye-catching pink and purple windows—it’s modern, it’s vibrant, and it’s uniquely Melbourne.
Our team at Mechcon had the chance to add to this vision with custom steel handrails and balustrades. We wanted our work to match the station’s style, so we crafted railings that are both sturdy and understated, letting the station’s cool features shine. By using top-grade materials and careful fabrication, we made sure the handrails weren’t just good-looking but ready for everyday use, too.
It’s no wonder Bell Station earned a spot on the prestigious Prix Versailles list. And when it came time to choose partners for such an important project, the team needed experts they could trust—like us at Mechcon. Bringing quality to every detail is what we’re all about.
Why Mechcon Was Chosen for the Bell Station Project
Why were Mechcon’s steel handrails chosen for the Bell Station project?
Well, when it comes to handling complex, fast-moving infrastructure projects, we’ve got the experience to get the job done right. In June 2022, we were brought on board by John Holland to manage the metalworks for both Bell and Preston Stations, including the custom stainless steel handrails that now line these beautiful spaces. As part of the Victorian Big Build, we knew quality and quick turnarounds would be essential—and we were ready for it, drawing from decades of work on similar high-profile projects.
Our Metal Fabrication Experience in Melbourne
Having worked on major Melbourne projects like the Preston train station upgrades, the Springvale level crossing removal, the Swan Street bridge widening project, and the Arts Centre Melbourne architectural Balustrades, we’ve built a reputation for delivering durable, safe, and stylish metalworks. Our team at Mechcon started with detailed technical drawings, making sure every piece was crafted with precision to fit perfectly on-site—no need for last-minute adjustments, which saved valuable time and kept everything on track. We’re proud to say that each railing we installed wasn’t just designed for functionality but also to complement Bell Station’s modern aesthetic.
Mechcon’s Commitment to Quality
At Mechcon, quality is at the heart of everything we do. From rigorous material testing to ensuring full traceability and following Procedure Qualification Records (PQR), we make sure every piece we fabricate meets the highest standards of safety and durability, essential for public spaces. And now that Bell Station has been ranked as one of the world’s most beautiful, we’re honoured to have contributed to this achievement, knowing our work adds both style and strength to the station’s design. This project reinforces why Mechcon is a trusted partner for Melbourne’s biggest and best infrastructure projects, and it’s a standard we’re committed to upholding in every job we take on.
Steel Handrail Design Precision for Bell Station
At Mechcon, we’re all about building top-quality, Australian-made handrails and balustrades, and Bell Station was the perfect project to show what we can do. Every handrail we install there is made right here in Melbourne, crafted to meet the highest standards and to fit right in with the station’s world-class design. From stainless steel to galvanised finishes, we stick to Australian Standards, including AS1428 for accessibility, making sure our products are as safe as they are stylish. Our team works closely with architects to make sure each design is on point, using precise shop drawings to get every detail just right.
For Bell Station, our fabrication process was all about getting it done efficiently and accurately. With detailed technical drawings like the ones showcased above, our skilled tradespeople crafted each piece to exact specifications, so the handrails fit seamlessly on-site with no last-minute surprises. We’re used to working under tight deadlines and handling complex designs, so our team delivered without missing a beat. For extra durability in Melbourne’s coastal areas, we offer finishes like industrial zinc primers and marine-grade stainless steel that can handle the elements. With our focus on Australian-made quality, we’re proud to have played a part in Bell Station’s success, knowing our handrails help make it a world-class space.
Maintaining Quality and Safety Under Pressure in the Victorian Big Build
The Victorian Big Build was no small project, and the fast-paced timelines kept everyone on their toes. At Mechcon, we knew staying on schedule was essential, so our team hit the ground running with a clear plan to deliver high-quality results on time. Our Australian-made handrails were fabricated locally and designed to be as sturdy as they are stylish, perfect for a project of this scale. We worked side-by-side with John Holland and other contractors to ensure each phase was completed smoothly, making sure our handrails and balustrades were ready to go without a hitch.
When it came to meeting project milestones, coordination was everything. Our team collaborated closely with architects and engineers, going over every detail to make sure our work aligned with their vision and the Australian Standards. We followed BCA 2012 Parts 3.9.1 and 3.9.2 regulations as well as AS 1170.1 for load requirements, so you know each handrail at Bell Station is built for safety and durability. From height requirements to load-bearing specs, we made sure our products passed every safety check, giving everyone peace of mind.
At Mechcon, quality and safety come first. Our handrails are designed to last, even in high-traffic areas like Bell Station, and each piece goes through rigorous testing to meet Building Code standards. By using only locally sourced, high-grade materials, we’ve been able to create handrails that not only meet the demands of the Victorian Big Build but also stand the test of time. This project was a chance for us to show that when you work with Mechcon, you’re getting products that are strong, reliable, and built to last.
Mechcon’s Contribution to Bell Station’s Award-Winning Design
It’s pretty incredible that Bell Station has been named one of the world’s most beautiful stations on the Prix Versailles list. This is a huge win for Melbourne, and we at Mechcon are thrilled to have been part of the team that brought it to life. From day one, we poured our heart and expertise into creating custom, Australian-made steel handrails and balustrades that would add both style and function to this stunning space. Working on the Bell Station was more than just a job for us—it was a chance to contribute to something truly special, a station that stands out on the global stage.
Our handrails aren’t just there for support; they’re designed to be part of the experience, giving commuters a safe, reliable, and visually appealing journey. We made sure every piece met Australia’s high standards, so Bell Station didn’t just look good—it’s built to last. Knowing that our work has played a role in something this meaningful is why we do what we do. For us, Bell Station isn’t just a beautiful project; it’s a testament to our commitment to quality, safety, and craftsmanship. We couldn’t be prouder to have contributed to a space that’s making waves worldwide.
Conclusion
It’s projects like Bell Station that remind us why we do what we do! Knowing our Australian-made DDA Architectural Handrails are part of one of the world’s most beautiful stations is a huge source of pride for our team. From crafting each piece with care to working hand-in-hand with other contractors, we were all about quality, safety, and style. Bell Station is more than just a train stop—it’s a space we’re proud to say we helped bring to life with our custom steelwork.
If you’re looking for reliable metal fabrication for a project, we’d love to talk. Get in touch with Mechcon and see how we can make your next project something special.
FAQ
Metal fabrication is all about building stuff that lasts. When it comes to public spaces like Bell Station, we make sure every piece we fabricate—like those stainless steel handrails—is tough enough to handle daily wear and tear while still looking top-notch. Good metal fabrication isn’t just about strength; it also adds a bit of style and polish to spaces everyone uses, so they’re both functional and easy on the eye.
Definitely! We’re known for tackling big projects, but we’re just as ready to roll up our sleeves for smaller jobs. Whether it’s for a local council building or a custom feature for a private client, we bring the same level of care and quality. No job’s too big or too small for us—we treat each project like it’s the most important one we’ve ever done. Contact our metal fab team for a free consult!
Aside from Bell Station, we’ve worked on a bunch of other projects around Melbourne. We handled metalwork at Preston train station, did some solid work for Knox City Council, and helped out with the Springvale level crossing removal, which made a real difference for local traffic and safety. We’ve also teamed up with the City of Whittlesea Civic Centre, crafting metal components that are both practical and look the part. Every project is a chance for us to show our commitment to quality and support the city we love.
