The gallery space has rarely been seen without its movable petitions, exhibitions and moody lighting.

The bare floors and walls highlighted just how large the size of the exhibition space was in the gallery, even dusty and with the white walls draped in protective plastic.

With more than 400,000 people through the doors since it opened in 2006, it is not surprising the floors have endured their far share of scuff marks and scrapes.

WPCC manager Andrew Glassop said yesterday was day three of the process and a lot of floor space had been covered with tradesmen tracking ahead of time.

Mr Glassop said refinishing the floors was a four-step process that included grinding, cutting out and repairing expansion joints, laying a penetrating sealant that binds to the concrete and finally a diamond polish.

The diamond polish will see the floor maintain its new glossy finish for about 15 years, which Mr Glassop said was money well spent.

By today the grinding process will have been completed.

Mr Glassop said the whole project could be completed by next Sunday and may see the centre's doors open earlier than anticipated.

He said guests attending the Hollywood to Bollywood Ball on February 16, would be the first to tread the new polished floors.

The annual fundraising ball, hosted by the Friends of the WPCC committee, helps fund art acquisitions for the gallery.

Tickets for the ball are $90 per person or $85 per person for "friends" members.

The ball offers hors d'oeuvres and champagne on arrival, a two course sit-down dinner to follow and a licenced bar will be stocked.

Entertainment by a live jazz band will keep guests' toes tapping and along with other special guest performers.

There will also be a DJ and a chill-out lounge to soak up the vibes and good conversation.

The WPCC gallery, museum and foyer are closed until February 27.

The Community Arts Centre will remain open throughout the maintenance period.