Creating Aluminium Curves at Tiwu Kumangka

Innovative Solutions and Acoustic Considerations 

Given the building’s role as a library and community hub, acoustic comfort was crucial. The team carefully mapped out every connection point, providing detailed coordinates to guide onsite installation and to identify where small sections of plywood backing were necessary to secure the structure. See pink dots in the image below that depicts this. This approach allowed perforated plasterboard to still be used, with acoustic bats behind the ceiling cavity, ensuring optimal acoustic performance for the space. 

The design accounted for movement between each of the three layers of battens, perforated plasterboard, and plywood—a critical consideration to accommodate building movement so the batten structures retain durability. 

Simplified Design Without Compromise 

To achieve the desired sculptural impact with the curved aluminium elements while maintaining cost-effectiveness, we worked with Design Inc. to rationalise the radius, resulting in a single radius of 600mm for every bend. This allowed us to avoid the fabrication process, which would have caused inconsistencies in the anodised finish. 

Avoiding Imperfections

We conducted extensive testing, prototyping, and the creation of mock-ups were key to ensuring the design was buildable. To prevent rippling along the curves, the aluminium extrusions were packed with sand during the rolling process to ensure the integrity of the profile was maintained under significant stress. 

Matching Facade Aesthetic

The architectural vision extended beyond the interior to include the building’s facade, where the design called for a continuation of the sleek, anodised aluminium aesthetic. This was achieved with the external application of our aluminium Click-on Battens, maintaining the same anodised finish as the interior elements. This approach ensured a cohesive visual flow from the outside in, reinforcing the building’s connection to its natural surroundings and enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal. 

Low Maintenance Exterior Solution

The external application of the battens not only contributed to the building’s visual coherence but also provided a durable, low-maintenance solution that is well-suited to the Australian climate. The anodised aluminium battens on the facade reflect the robust materiality that Design Inc. intended, echoing the natural textures and tones of the surrounding landscape. 

Form Meets Function

The ceiling installation, with its branch-like curves, aligns closely with the original design concept, creating a seamless blend of form and function. This result not only meets the rigorous design and acoustic requirements but also enhances the building’s role as a welcoming and functional community space.