Methodist Ladies College

A hub of enthusiasm designed by McIldowie Partners to allow flexibility in the learning environment, the new Nicholas Learning Centre at Methodist Ladies College uses Sculptform Click-on Battens to complete its energetic yet refined appeal.

Product
Click-on Battens

Materials
Timber Veneered Aluminium

Sector
Education

Architect
McIldowie Partners

Builder
McCorkell Brown Group

Location
Kew, Victoria

Completion Date
2019

Photographer
Steve Scallone

If it looks like timber…

The Aluminium Click-on Battens used on the feature walls and ceilings around Nicholas Learning Centre are finished in our white oak real timber veneer.

By using real timber as a veneer around the aluminium, the beautiful variation of natural timber is preserved. Shown below left is an example of white oak real timber veneer battens, compared to the conventional white oak timber battens of Padua College on the right.

Real timber veneer

Our real timber veneer uses actual timber cut into thin >1mm slices and wrapped around an aluminium batten. The wrapping process takes place entirely in our Australian factory, where we are continually incorporating the latest in wrapping technology available.

While our timber-look options can match the timber aesthetic, the variation of real timber is extremely hard to replicate. Our real timber veneer can provide this level of variation, giving the authentic look and warmth of timber.

A fire compliant solution

By choosing to use the real timber veneer, McIldowie Partners was able to provide a genuine timber aesthetic while still meeting all fire compliance requirements. All Sculptform aluminium Click-on Battens achieve a Group 1 fire rating, which is essential for projects like this in the education sector.

Find out more about how our aluminium battens can help you achieve design intent while remaining compliant in our Click-on Battens technical information section.

A custom acoustic solution

At Sculptform, we love a challenge. When asked if we could provide an acoustic solution for several collaboration spaces across the Nicholas Learning Centre, we had just the answer in mind. To provide a solution which met both the acoustic and aesthetic requirements of the space, we suggested incorporating an Acoustic Blade system.

The system fixes blades made of 100% recyclable PET panel vertically to the ceiling, which absorb sound and help control the noise levels in common areas which are usually full of activity. White blades were chosen in this instance to contrast the spectacular hexagonal patterns on the carpet, completing the overall look of the halls and common areas.

The small details make a big difference

A combination of great design and attention to detail by the installers, the Nicholas Learning Centre is one of our favourite examples of how small detailing can have a massive effect on the overall finished product.

Everything from angled batten ends following the shape of the bulkhead to the incredible detail of the battens around the stairs all contribute to the refined aesthetic of the project. A 25x25mm aluminium L-profile powder coated in black is also used to finish off the edge of the feature walls with style, contrasting with the warmth of the timber battens.

Timber Battens Define Dynamic Learning Spaces

A hub of enthusiasm designed by McIldowie Partners to allow flexibility in the learning environment, the new Nicholas Learning Centre at Methodist Ladies College uses Sculptform Click-on Battens to complete its energetic yet refined appeal.

ProductClick-on Battens

MaterialsTimber Veneered Aluminium

SectorEducation

ArchitectMcIldowie Partners

BuilderMcCorkell Brown Group

LocationKew, Victoria

Completion Date2019

PhotographerSteve Scallone

If it looks like timber…

Real timber veneer

A fire compliant solution

A custom acoustic solution

The small details make a big difference

Product Specifications

Aluminium Click-on Battens

Product

Material

Finish

Profile

Spacing

Mounting Track

Acoustic Backing

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