February 2012 | ArchitectureAu

Oct 26, 2024

The February 2012 issue of Architectural Product News magazine showcased information about new products from suppliers including Cosentino Australia Pty Ltd, Havwoods, Locker Group, Locker Group and Screenwood. The cover story shone a spotlight on Kingspan Insulated Panels.

You can explore the latest news about architecture and design products, and specification, at ArchitectureAu Products.

Indoor sports floors are all about shock-absorbing qualities: ball bounce,resilience and friction are the key factors which determine both performanceand safety. If the floor is too soft, the ball rebound will be too slow. If it is too hard the athlete will be exposed to injury due to fatigue. Around onethird of all indoor sports injuries can be related to the properties of the floor.

Junckers are world-renowned experts in sports flooring, having installed more than twenty million square metres, and are represented on the committee responsible for setting the exceptionally stringent European standards for sports flooring.

All Junckers sports floors are made from 22 mm solid hardwood withtimbers especially chosen for their tensile strength, straight grain structureand optimum area elasticity (ensuring the maximum freedom of movement).A choice of woods and sub-structures ensure the best flooring for whateverusage and performance level is required.

All Junckers sports floors are designed to enable athletes and dancers totrain longer and play harder without fear of injury, which is why they arethe choice of athletes. In Australia, Junckers sports floors are available only from Havwoods.

Staff at Kingspan Insulated Panels said they were elated for Hassell after its success at the 2011 National Architecture Awards. The architecture firm won the top national architecture prize, the Harry Seidler Award for Commercial Architecture for the Ecoscience Precinct in Brisbane.

The jury for the prestigious award said the building concept is simple, powerful and extremely well executed. It “purposefully unites the complex, high performance requirements of laboratory space with social, people orientated environments filtered by a light garden ambience.”

“It assertively embraces the next generation of healthy, efficient and enjoyable office environments.”

In part, the Ecoscience Precinct’s 4 Star equivalent Green Star rating speaks to the efficiency cited by the jury. The precinct incorporates a range of sustainable initiatives, such as rainwater capture, and Kingspan’s insulated panels have helped to facilitate excellent energy efficiency. Kingspan insulated panels were an integral part of the design and helped the project reach an energy efficient result that was far better than is usually expected with energy-intensive laboratory complexes.

Kingspan insulated panels ensure stable internal conditions throughout the whole building. The thermal performance of the panel core and the air-tightness of the joints reduce the load on HVAC systems and help to reduce the CO2 footprint.

Hassell used Kingspan’s long-spanning architectural wall panels to complement the external aesthetic. The eight-metre panels were vertically orientated. Combined with Kingspan’s true secret fix system, which conceals all the fixings, Hassell achieved expansive, clean lines up the 24 m high walls that draw the eye skywards.

Hassell also specified Kingspan’s controlled environment (KS1100 CS) panels in the construction of the laboratories. Laboratories of this standard are built as an enclosed space to enable the control of airborne particles, temperature, humidity, air pressure, air flow patterns and levels of contamination. The high performance and functionality of the KS1100 CS panels are ideally suited to these “clean room” applications

“Hassell has earned the accolades. It’s simply a beautiful building inside and out,” said Helen Flood, marketing manager for Kingspan Insulated Panels.

“It is wonderful to see progressive yet highly practical architecture winning national awards. The Ecosicence Precinct is an excellent case study of how Kingspan panels can be utilized and excel in the now crucial nexus between thermal performance and design aesthetic.

“We’re particularly proud that Hassell showcased panels from each of Kingspan’s roof (Trapezoidal profile KS 1000 RW), architectural wall panel (AWP) and controlled environment (CS) ranges. The installed panels make for a modern finish and contributes to the building’s sleek lines,” said Ms Flood.

Kingspan Insulated Panels is a global leader in the design and manufacture of sustainable insulated roof, architectural wall and controlledenvironment panel systems.

Celmec bring a new energy efficient heater to the market with the re-engineered Heatray Electric Radiant Panel Heater (ERH). The unit has a new E-Ceramic face, allowing for maximum heat output. The new tough face is also corrosion resistant and scratch resistant, making it ideal for commercial and high-end residential applications.

The ERH unit has also been created in a new 1500 W model. The new model produces a higher heat output than the existing 1200 W model and provides extended flexibility in its application in regard to mounting heights and quantity of units required.

A wide range of mounting methods are available to ensure the ERH unitscan be installed in just about any situation. Celmec can also custom makemounting to suit requirements.

Ronstan’s new modular plant climbing systems use the beauty and integrity of stainless steel cable to provide support for vertical climbing plants.

Four simple systems, from single cable solutions to cable grids and a fullmesh facade, offer trellising solutions for simple vertical gardens to morecomplex green skins. These systems help maximize the efficiency of coolingand heating systems by shading in summer and allowing sunlight throughin winter.

The systems accommodate the differing horticultural, load, aesthetic andsustainability requirements of residential and commercial landscape projects.

Excelling in both design and performance, Karndean Design Flooring isready to be discovered.

Karndean has recently launched exciting new designs in its popular VanGogh range. From the refreshing White Washed Oak to Stripy Walnut, thesenew planks expand the range into a new design space. With large plank sizesand slip ratings of R10 and R11, the Van Gogh collection provides a solutionto suit a variety of commercial applications.

Selecting your Van Gogh design has now been made easier thanks tothe Karndean Van Gogh Product Presenter. Combining actual mini-sizedVan Gogh swatches with the quick technical reference guide, the Van GoghProduct Presenter is the perfect flooring handbook. Order your free copy nowvia the enquiry card.

Escea’s new DX1500 gas fireplace sets exciting new standards. Withthe option of single-sided or through-the-wall double-sided, the DX1500combines a massive 1500-mm-width flame with up to 10 kW of heatoutput at five-star efficiency. The fire’s new heat ducting technologyquietly distributes the heat to the far ends of the room and even intoadjoining rooms.

The flue for the fire can be run either vertically or horizontally and canbe terminated on an exterior wall if required. Escea’s new Smart Heatcontrol system optimizes the performance of the fire, allows communicationwith home automation systems and even controls the fire using Escea’ssmartphone app.

As the latest addition to WE-EF’s high-quality range of in-grounduplights, the ETT100 offers greater flexibility for designers in urban and highpassenger traffic areas, adding atmospheric and long-life luminance.

Based on the dimensions of T5 lamps, this new solid state based uplightcomes in a variety of sizes ranging from 500 mm up to 1600 mm.This uplight is highly versatile, featuring a provision for suspension, whichmeans it can be used as a downlight and has wall-mounting ability.

Made with extruded aluminium and offering corrosion resistance, theETT100 is anodized after machining to offer complete surface protection. Itsfive tonne toughened glass means it is also vandal resistant and can withstandthe wear and tear of the busiest city streets and retail thoroughfares, withIP67 rating for periodic immersion.

Australian designed and manufactured, ‘Urban Edge’ offers an innovative and versatile series of ‘Modular’, ‘Battened’ and ‘Multi-Frame’ outdoor public seating solutions, with tables, bins and bollards to match.

Clean contemporary styling combined with high-quality, lowmaintenancerecycled and recyclable materials: ‘Urban Edge’ is suitable for residential and commercial developments, shopping centres, hospitals, education and aged care facilities, town centres, parklands and streetscapes – whenever there’s a demand for exceptional design, easy maintenance and value-for-money.

The Dorma Agile 150 series of sliding door solutions includes a minimal 63 mm track profile height and whisper-quiet roller carrier assemblies. The system offers solutions that are as technically superior as they are visually stunning.

This series is now able to expand on its application by offering solutions for glass-supported tracking assemblies. The system is available in aluminiumpowdercoat and stainless steel look-alike finishes.

Throughout the extensive Australasian network, architects and designers will be pleased to find representatives eager to deliver solutions tailored to the project’s requirements and its user’s specific needs.

The C Series is a refined and technologically forward series of spider fittings now exclusively available from Häfele. The collection defines grace in its design and is set to create a sensation in the architectural industry.

With the utmost attention to design, the C Series concealed fixing spiderfitting encompasses functionality while encapsulating elegance. Having spent more than three decades as innovators in this field, Lisus has developed a product which puts a refreshing spin on spider fittings for frameless glass facades and walls. Its luscious curves defy the standard design blueprints of aspider fitting while neatly concealing the bolts that hold the clamps in place.

It also comes with a hole finder, which minimizes inaccuracies and makes for a perfect fit every time.

Flat Panel radiators are a contemporary approach to the traditional.

The majority of hydronic heating systems utilize steel panel radiators. While the steel panel radiator, with its ribbed fascia and integrated side and top grille, is viewed as a timeless design a less obtrusive alternative is often sought and this is where the Flat Panel radiator is the perfect solution.

Offering an aesthetically attractive and unobtrusive smooth-front fascia, theFlat Panel suits all interior environments and provides an affordable elementof design.

Flat Panels offer all the same features and benefits as the traditional steel panel radiator and are available in an extensive range of sizes, including vertical options.This makes it a perfect and stylish solution when wall space is at a premium.

Breezway has released a new collection of products and design ideas forthe Altair louvre window product range.

These significant additions include the new Stronghold system that hasbeen designed to improve blade retention, which is ideal for multi-storeyapplications. New remote controls have been developed for the AltairPowerlouvre window to keep up to date with changing needs in themarket place.

Energy ratings for Altair Louvre Western Red Cedar timber blades are nowavailable and a new commercial brochure has been created to highlight theAltair louvre product range and its energy efficiency in sustainable buildings,along with a list of the latest projects from Breezway.

Dulux World of Colour offers new possibilities for designers, architectsand specifiers, with 245 new colours, palettes and tools designed to makechoosing the right colour for the job even easier than before.

Discover the new Dulux World of Colour Atlas, bringing together over4,600 colours from across the globe Explore the passions and places thatcolour Australia in the “Red Heart, Blue Shore” spectrum, journey through900 hues in the “Colours of New Zealand” selection, and venture amongstthe “Whites & Neutrals, Bolds & Brights” and more.

Hold a world of colour in the palm of your hand with the extendedfandecks, including new standalone fandecks for Whites & Neutrals and RedHeart, Blue Shore.

The latest addition to Wolf’s range of cooking appliances, the newfloating black glass E-series single and double ovens, offer a flushfitting finish.

The new black glass E-series features sleek lines, discreet touch-sensitivecontrol panel and trademark Wolf cobalt blue oven interior, which reflectslight and withstands higher temperatures.

The E-series has ten easy-to-use cooking modes plus Wolf’s dualconvection system, consisting of two separate fans and four individual heatsources. These operate either simultaneously or independently for precisecooking and professional results.

The oven cavity is 759 mm wide and the large double-pane windowenables the interior to be easily viewed without opening the door.

Designed by Frenchman Jean-Marie Massaud, the new Carmel sofa is anupholstered chair that features generous proportions and a soft, voluptuousform that’s more cushion than frame.

Like all of Massaud’s ideas, Carmel is finely resolved. The detailed stitchingis beautifully tailored and the selection of materials ranges from texturedfabrics to smooth leather.

The collection also includes the Carmel easy chair and both pieces aremade with aluminium bases and a structure of molded flexible polyurethane.Designed for commercial and residential interiors, the Carmel sofa and easychair are available exclusively from Poliform.

Schott Amiran is an optical interference non-reflective glass, dip-coatedon both sides, with a residual reflection of approximately 1% (conventionalglass is 8%).

Reflections can be extremely distracting in many situations, ruining theview from a dinner setting in a restaurant or at home, or making choosing acar, outfit or piece of jewellery in a shop front or showcase nearly impossible.Reflections can even destroy the snapshot of an animal behind the piece ofglass in a zoo. They can become a safety issue in marine areas, airport towersand train stations.

In order to avoid these negative effects, more and more specifiers areturning to Amiran, the nearly invisible glass from Schott.

Amiran is available toughened, laminated or curved in Australia.

The new PUM concealed undermount rangehood from Smeg is an idealaddition to the chic, easy-to-live-with, monochromatic kitchen. Availablein 600 mm or 900 mm widths, the PUM is completely concealed beneathoverhead cupboards or an island bulkhead, meaning there is no interruptionto the clean lines of the kitchen.

Crafted in satin stainless steel and including 138 w centrifugal twinimpellors with double-sided air uptake, it will remove up to 700 m3 of airper hour. This means all grease- and odour-laden air will be removed fromthe kitchen quietly and efficiently and either ducted outdoors or cleaned andrecirculated into the kitchen.

Powerful LED lights are positioned in front of the grease filters to ensureclear, shadow-free cooking. Both models feature three speeds to choosefrom to ensure everything from a slow simmer to a high intensity stir fry iscatered for. The five-ply aluminium grease filters are also dishwasher safe.There are also optional activated charcoal filters available.

BelleStone is a natural stone facing applied to a structural masonry block.Baines Masonry uses the patented Henrick system of applying the stonefacing, which incorporates double-sided tape, adhesive and marine gradestainless steel pins, to ensure the facing is fixed by the strongest adhesiveavailable as well as mechanically attaching the stone.

The double-sided tape has been specially developed to adhere concrete.The tape uses a high-strength, neutral-cure adhesive. The 316 marine gradepins ensure the facing is fixed mechanically, top and bottom.

By adhering to a structural masonry block the complete unitbecomes structural.

In response to customer demand for an affordable lift with automaticsliding doors, Easy Living Home Elevators developed the sleek and stylishDomus Evolution lift, which involved years of research.

Designed, engineered and made in Italy to suit the requirements of theAustralian market, the Domus Evolution is suitable for both residential andcommercial applications. At the touch of a button, the stainless steel doorsslide open and close. The lift features lifting load capacities of up to 400 kg,an optional self-supporting glass tower, through car lift arrangements and thelowest pit and headroom dimensions of any fully automatic home elevator.

The lift only requires a minimum pit depth of 150 mm and headroom of 2650mm and is now available with hydraulic or traction solution.

Blockout’s built-in Maxiview roller shutter adds an architectural featureto buildings. It also provides privacy, insulation and security while maintainingviews. The standard Maxiview roller shutter is manufactured from a singlewall-extruded, aluminium interlocking profile and maintains views through alarge number of small perforations in the shutter profile.

The Maxiview roller shutter is designed to also maintain natural light,minimize glare, reduce heat gain in summer and prevent heat loss in winter.

The Blockout range also includes a stronger version, the MaxiblockMaxiview, which provides maximum strength for additional securityrequirements while still maintaining views. The shutters can be installed onroofs, doors, and sloping, shaped and angled glass.

Vantage Controls is a smart, attractive, easy-to-use and flexible homeautomation system.

The Vantage home control system enables users to enjoy all the featuresof their home with the touch of a button.

From lighting control scenes and effortless home environment settings tosophisticated entertainment options, a Vantage system offers users the abilityto create a highly functional home.

The Vantage Controls system can control lighting, entertainment, security,heating and cooling and water. It is simple to use and backed by 20 years ofindustry innovation.

The system is easily expandable and is ideal for retrofit projects.

Architects and designers can create a whitewashed-style effect on interiortimber walls and floors quickly and easily with Resene Colorwood Whitewash.

The Environmental Choice-approved Resene Colorwood Whitewash is lowin odours and low in VOC compared to solvent-borne interior stains andpolyurethanes. The whitewash can be used for applications from a minimalistScandanavian effect on flooring through to refurbishing old interior clearfinishedtimber.

Resene Colorwood is also available in a range of other colours, fromtraditional timber colours to brights, and can be tinted to Resene ExteriorWoodcare colours soarchitects and designerscan have a consistentcolour palette on theinside and outside oftheir projects.

The Resene Colorwoodrange is available onlyfrom Resene.

Automated curtains are fast becoming a standard in high-end homes,luxury apartments and hotels. Glydea from Somfy delivers ultra-quietautomated curtains with many features previously not available in asingle solution. These features include:

Glydea is compatible with the full range of Somfy controls and can beintegrated into virtually all home automation and building managementsystems on the market.

Blanco’s new Gas on Glass 90 cm, five-burner touch control cooktopcombines European-inspired design with new technology.

Blanco’s new products bring together the design of black glass with thebenefits of cooking with gas. The cooktop features a clean new look, smarttouch controls and the convenience of a surface that is easy to clean.

At the top of the range is the CGG905WTFFC 90 cm five-burner cooktop.Adding to the look of the Gas on Glass range, the touch control featuremakes the cooktop easy to operate and will draw the eye of everyonewho enters the kitchen as another point of difference to the everydaygas cooktop.

Other great features include a clock display, safety lock, timer functionand flame failure.

For architects and specifiers who prefer a rich and elegant look for theirproject’s flooring, Big River now offers laminates with a high-quality glossfinish. These ultra-realistic designs are high definition images under a glossyresin coating, for the ultimate “real” timber experience.

The laminates are available in two popular Australian timbers, blackbuttand spotted gum, as well as American oak. Big River Gloss Laminate boardsfeature the advanced 5G European tongue-and-groove joining system,which allows boardsto be interlocked withtwo quick actions. Theglue-free jointing systemprovides secure jointsand allows planks to beremoved and replaced ifrequired.

Manufactured by Bromic Heating, the Tungsten Smart-Heat Gas rangeoffers unmatched features in the commercial outdoor heating market.

The Tungsten Smart-Heat Gas range offers wind and water resistance,electronic ignition, easy-pivot directional heat and the options for walland ceiling mounting. The Tungsten Smart-Heat Gas range is a smartheatingsolution.

The Tungsten Smart-Heat Gas is available in a 300 series and 500 series,and both are available in LPG or Natural Gas.

The Orbiq monobloc kitchen mixer with spray rinse is one of a suite ofnew contemporary kitchen taps from Perrin & Rowe. The range includesoptions with single or twin lever handles, models with a spray rinse, andchrome or pewter (brushed nickel) finishes. An Orbiq bench mounted soapdispenser is also available to complete the set.

Designed for designers, the Perrin & Rowe Contemporary collectioncombines clever engineering with a sleek and timeless look.

Like all Perrin & Rowe products, the Contemporary collection is designedand manufactured in England.

Products are machined frompremium-grade brass, handpolished, electroplated to athickness of 20-25 microns,fully assembled and rigorouslytested. These fittings aremade with a passion for detailand quality.

Sprungfloor by Show Works has revolutionized the dance industry in thelast 18 months. With its clever patented clipping system and easy-to-installdesign, Sprungfloor by Show Works is being used in more and more dancestudios around Australia.

As well as its ease of use, Sprungfloor by Show Works has been fully testedby the International Basketball Federation and engineered by Wallbridge &Gilbert structural engineers. Sprungfloor by Show Works is now available ina range of finishes to suit different projects.

Hi-Light has taken 30 years of experience providing sun screens forcommercial architectural developments around Australia and applied thatindustry knowledge and technical expertise to create Nuance, its new rangeof perforated screening solutions. With patterns to suit any application andthe ability to custom design, Nuance is the professional choice for your nextcommercial building project.

Perforated aluminium screens can be used in a variety of ways to provideshelter, privacy, decoration and demarcation. The humblest building canbe transformed into an artistic, colourful poster for the built environment.

With serious sun shadingcapability, perforated screenscan provide relief to otherwiseuncomfortable thermal transferthrough commercial glazing.

Since 1995 Alutile has featured on building facades, interior walls,signage and on a multitude of projects around the world.

As well as high rise developments, refurbishments of existing buildings,single and multi-storey developments, factories, showrooms and shoppingcentres, Alutile has become extremely popular on private residences, addinga touch of class with no painting required.

Alutile is available in an extensive colour range including new woodgrain colours, while the vibrant new Kaleidoscope panels offer a changingspectrum of colours depending on the angle of viewing and light aspect.

Standard panels come in a four millimetre thickness and in two widths(1250 mm and 1570 mm) and three lengths (2500 mm, 3200 mm and4000 mm). Alutile is available in other size specifications, it meets ASTMstandards and offers an FR core for those who require it.

The designer of this retail car park in Melbourne’s Springvale has managedto create a distinctive, futuristic facade utilizing standard perforated panels.

The designer chose a range of profiles, sheet sizes, panel colours andlevels to create this 3D effect. Panels have been installed at various depthsto provide the otherwise standard structure with some depth and texture.

Locker Group’s range of profile options allows designers to choose almostany profile and hole size combination, while still meeting the open arearequirements for car park screening.

Louvretec’s Louvreline panel collection provides a new concept for wallpanels, louvres and balustrades. The flat, rectangular-shaped blade providesa clean, contemporary look. When the blades are closed, a seamless flat wallis achieved.

Choose from either weatherboard- or flush-panel style with a choice ofblade sizes. The all-aluminium blades can be used vertical or horizontal andopen up many new and innovative design options.

Louvreline panels can be motorized or hand adjustable, complementingthe aesthetics of modern architecture and working with the elements forventilation, heating and cooling.

Louvretec provides smart sun control solutions for a sustainable home.Presenting an extensive product range, Louvretec is a one-stop-shop for sunlouvre systems, shutters and opening roofs.

Available from Smartfix Industries, Nu-Core geopolymer core compositesare the safe, sustainable version of aluminium composite panels. The core iscompletely inorganic, and the fire rating standard is the best in the industry– A2 certified – which is a far better alternative to polyethylene plastic.

Originally designed for the aviation industry, geopolymer compositepanels are rigid and have excellent strength and outstanding flatness.The panels are available in unlimited colours and finishes.

Nu-Core is ideal for architectural facades not only in Australia butworldwide. The fire requirements in international markets are ever-changingand Nu-Core surpasses these requirements.

Nu-Core is available in panels as large as 1575 mm × 8000 mm, withcustom sizes also available. Nu-Core is also compatible with the Smartfixfixing system.

Safetyline Jalousie louvre windows are well known for their securityfeatures and extra-width capabilities, but they also have improved soundinsulation properties.

In recent tests carried out at the National Acoustic Laboratories, andin accordance with Australian Standard AS 1191-2002, these impressivelouvre windows achieved a weighted sound reduction index of Rw (C, Ctr),equalling 32 decibels (0, -1). This reduction is equivalent to the noise of veryloud traffic being reduced to that of an average office.

Rw is the weighted sound reduction index in decibels and it describes theairborne sound-insulating power of a building element. It can apply to walls,ceilings, floors, doors or windows. The higher the number, the greater thesound insulating power of the building element.

Add another dimension to an architectural facade with ScreenwoodExternal solutions. Screenwood modular facade panels are manufacturedfrom solid timber slats and are available in a variety of sizes and spacings.Pre-finished in a wide range of exclusive finishes, Screenwood panels createa unique finished solution for any project.

Screenwood modular systems are designed to offer ease of installationand a reduction in labour costs compared with the traditional method ofinstalling blades individually. Screenwood facade panels are predominantlymanufactured from Western red cedar. Its richly textured grain, warmcolouring and satin lustremake it complementary toany architectural design.

Palagio offers beautiful, unique cladding solutions that are visually striking,thermally efficient and easy to maintain.

Ventilated facades and sunscreens are creating interest throughout the world asenvironmental legislation, energy costs and ongoing maintenance costs are takeninto account. Palagio’s expertly engineered ventilated facades allow for the efficientmanagement of temperature and energy and are ideally suited to the Australianclimate, providing the optimal level of environmental comfort.

Palagio has worked with many highly regarded architects including Renzo Pianoand Richard Rogers, contributing its technical understanding of terracotta andsystems of anchorage, from working plan through to production and installation ofvarious types of facade. This experience,which spans a wide range of geographicalareas including Australia, has helped developa deep understanding of the requirements ofdifferent environmental situations. The resultis a range of cladding and sunscreen productsdesigned for both residential and commercialapplications that respond to specific aestheticneeds, and that combine high performance,including thermo, hygrometric and acousticadvantages.

Palagio tile, cladding and sunscreenproducts are available exclusively throughArtedomus in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

The Elmich green wall system, supplied by KHD Landscape EngineeringProducts, was recently installed at the Rendezvous Hotel, Singapore.

This project was 85 square metres, with a length of 35.4 metres and aheight of 2.4 metres. The curvature (concave wall) posed no problem for theElmich green wall system as it is supplied and installed in modular sections.Any minor gaps between sections have been covered up with plants.

Green walls can be used for interior walls, exterior walls, free-standingwalls and building facades. Green walls have a number of benefits for abuilding, including improved heat insulation, reduced sound transmission,enhanced air quality and reduced storm water run-off.

Alspec has released its range of fixed louvre options to cater for virtuallyany function necessary, whether it’s for plant room doors with specificair flow requirements or elliptical blades designed to assist the thermalperformance of buildings.

The full range, which includes blade sizes from 70 mm up to 600 mm, hasbeen expertly engineered and designed with great aesthetics in mind.

Superlight’s new Eco13 Trimless LED downlight combines the latest LEDtechnology with architectural style. It is the first fully integrated Trimless LEDdownlight available in Australia.

The new generation integrated 13-watt LED produces over 900 lumens,making it ideal for any high-end residential or commercial project. EveryEco13 Trimless LED downlight comes with a Superlight dimmable LED driver,which works with standard style dimmers and home automation systemssuch as CBUS and Dynalite.

As the line between seasons gets a little blurry, flooring systems needto be more adaptable. Developed in the US and colour selected in Europe,Tectonic flooring systems aim to be that adaptable solution.

New to the Australian market, Tectonic flooring boasts benefits such asheat resistance, moisture resistance and sound-reducing properties.

It guarantees not to warp, cup, swell or split, even when placed overheated slabs. Its PEFC certification means it ticks the environmentally friendlybox and its stability and craftsmanship is incomparable in quality.

Watch a video on how Tectonic flooring works at this website:tectonicfloors.com.au/how-timber-flooring-works.php

Recent natural disasters have seen an increased awareness and focus onhigh performance cladding systems for major building envelopes.

Many external cladding materials meet a Class 2 or Class 3 fireperformance rating, but very few materials achieve AS1530.1 compliance.This compliance confirms a truly non-combustible building material.

HH Robertson now offers Almaxco A2FR aluminium composite panels.With CSIRO assessments in place, the Almaxco A2FR panels give specifiersand building owners confidence when looking for superior fire performancefrom their architectural cladding. This superior fire performance was achievedafter prolonged research and development to determine the perfect mineralcore composition.

Almaxco A2FR aluminium composite panels have been specified on highimportance Australian projects in the health and defence sectors.

This premium Euro paving range combines striking synergies of colour,aggregate and texture to deliver an Australian pavement solution. AdbriMasonry is able to use an in-house NATA-accredited laboratory to aid inachieving sustainable objectives.

For Ausgrid’s Learning Centre in Sydney’s west, the Adbri Masonry teamworked together with the architect to select and design a unique Euro honedpaver which incorporated 40% Portland cement replacement to assist inachieving the Green Building Council of Australia’s 6 Star Green Star rating.

Available in a range of sizes, the Euro paving range is a premium pressedpavement solution.

Fujitsu General has released the Airstage J-II Series VRF system. Capableof supporting up to nine indoor units, the J-II Series is ideal for a wide rangeof domestic and commercial air conditioning applications. It provides greaterinstallation flexibility, improved energy-saving performance and centralizedcontrol functions.

The J-II Series delivers a 33% improvement in heating capacity comparedwith other Fujitsu models and a larger aperture fan reduces noise levels.

Installation has been significantly improved with 180 m of piping, easierpiping pullout opening for four directions and a front-panel design thatallows installation in narrow spaces. Indoor units and peripheral equipmentcan also be installed in combination with the Fujitsu Airstage V-II Series.

The Katt range of modular rung ladders offers unparalleled precisionand profiled design. The permanent and portable access ladders providesafe and easy access to elevated areas such as roof tops, ceiling spaces andmaintenance platforms including varying roof levels.

The prefabricated, modular rung ladder system ensures easy and rapidonsite assembly, with no welding required, suiting many varied applicationsand locations and increasingsafety of workers. Katt’slightweight, high-strengthaluminium construction canbe powdercoated to suit thesurrounds. All ladders areindustrial rated to 150 kgand require minimumongoing maintenance.

Accel Design, James Hardie’s product service that delivers smart designand specification tools for professionals can now accelerate architects andspecifiers’ access to exclusive research.

Created to help specifiers design, detail and document easily, Accel helpsto quickly create realistic 3D designs with intelligent ArchiCAD and Revitcontent and easily calculate sustainability, fire and acoustic ratings.

Now, as an Accel member, you’ll also receive a new series of technicalbulletins collated from extensive research about topical challenges for theconstruction industry such as designing energy efficient homes.

For example, did you know that the software tool you use can make adifference of over half a star rating? Part 1 compares the variances betweenthermal simulation tools, across populous climate zone. Do you know when to insulate and enclose a lightweight floor – and achieve lower life cycle energyconsumption and floor solution that’s less sensitive to orientation and solaraccess? Or how to achieve a more cost effective 6 star designed house?

For complimentary membership to Accel visit accel.com.au and downloadPart 1 of the Energy Efficient Lightweight Homes Technical Bulletin series nowwhen you join.

Servo-Drive Uno makes waste disposal and separation straightforwardin the kitchen.

The waste pull-out is the most frequently used pull-out in the kitchen.Blum recommends Servo-Drive Uno to be used as a standard feature in thecleaning zone to make working in the kitchen easier and more comfortable.The electric opening support system is easy to mount and available as anindividual set.

Blum also has a solution for hanging waste separation systems to ensurethat waste pull-outs canbe opened with ease.These systems closesoftly and effortlesslywith tried and testedBlumotion soft-closetechnology.

Tredfx Floor Safety has released its new product catalogue showcasingits expanded range of stair nosings.

With the recent addition of over fifteen new styles, there’s sure to be aTredfx stair nosing suitable for any project. The range now incorporates stairnosings to suit a variety of substrates, available with an assortment of insertsin a contemporary range of colours.

Tredfx stair nosingsare manufactured fromfully recyclable anodizedaluminium and are ratedfor full commercialgrade use. Quick andeasy to fit, all Tredfxstair nosings providea solution for whendurability, slip resistanceand appearance are apriority.

Barrisol Acoustics micro-perforated sheets absorb sound and reducenoise pollution in public or private spaces. These sheets limit the effect ofreverberation for a better speech intelligibility and sound comfort.

Barrisol Acoustics range of stretch ceilings offers an aesthetically pleasingacoustic solution in gloss, satin, matt and translucent finishes.

Custom panels are available in any shape with sizes up to 80 square metres,are not restricted by panel size and not obviously acoustic in appearance.Barrisol can supply acoustic tests for more than 150 ceiling set ups.

New from Parisi Bathware, the Jazz Console 91 combines classic andcontemporary style, along with ceramic and metallic tones, in one design.

The elegant diamond-shaped legs, reminiscent of an art deco aesthetic,blend easily with the simplicity of the modern basin.

The amalgamation of different styles is the collaborative work of twohighly respected Milan designers – Sandro Meneghello and Marco Paolelli.While retaining the bolder aspects of the Jazz collection, the two designershave included softer, feminine curves with this new addition.

The LITBYLED 13 watt LED luminaire is a compact, 85-mm-wide, fullycertified adjustable downlight. Emitting a soft and warm LED light, theLITBYLED is both energy efficient and simplistic, making it suitable for a widevariety of spaces.

It is easily dimmable and is packed with a glass cover to prevent damageto the light body.

It has a high colour rendition, USA chip and high light output of 620lumen, which is equivalent to a 50 watt halogen bulb.

It also features a 60-degree beam, making it especially suitable for averageto low ceilings. If you are looking for an affordable, durable and dimmabledownlight, LITBYLED is an ideal solution.

Shanghai-based studio Neri & Hu describes its work as sparking a newmodern Chinese aesthetic. In 2010, Neri & Hu collaborated for the first timewith Dutch group Moooi, creating a light inspired by ancient Chinese folklorethat tells a tale of an emperor and a beautiful nightingale’s song.

As one of the latest additions to the Moooi lighting collection, theEmperor suspension light celebrates the traditions of Chinese craftsmanship,while telling stories of the past. Each bamboo and rattan cage is woven byhand so every piece is unique to the individual who made it. Finished with analuminium frame and a glass diffuser, the Emperor collection comes in threesizes and is available in either a red or black stain. The Emperor suspensionlight is available from Space Furniture.

Hillaldam’s stackaway systems for frameless doors are perfect for avariety of applications in both the domestic and commercial sector.

Using lighter-duty stackaway hardware that maintains its tough features,Hillaldam’s unique systems allow maximum space through the use ofindividually moving panels that can be neatly stacked away from the opening.

Flexibility and functionality is the key in this range of systems. Hillaldam’sstackaway systems are available in both top-hung and bottom-rollingvarieties to suit all application requirements.

For your free stackaway system specification, please complete theenquiry card.

Sunbrella has created a fabric that can stand up to the relentless heat ofthe sun and nature’s most unforgiving elements.

Sunbrella fabrics can be used for a number of applications, includingboat biminis, sail covers, seat cushions, interior upholstery, convertible tops,outdoor furniture, awnings and sunshades, and there are still many moreopportunities yet to be explored.

Sunbrella can make sumptous velvets, exquisite jacquards and decorativeweaves. The fabrics are durable enough for patios and attractive enough forliving rooms.

Sunbrella is amongthe best performancefabrics on the markettoday.

Contemporary bathroom fittings brand Adesso has introduced five chicnew basins – Serres, Saile, Ordon, Orly and Arnas.

Originally designed to complement the beautiful homes crafted by aleading Australian builder, the new basins take hints of European cultureand inject it into a form to suit local tastes. Comprising one countertop andfour vanity basins, the new additions to the Adesso collection are unique andmodern with curves to suit a range of installations.

With an enduring form and simple features, each basin draws the eye in itsown way. For instance, the unique deck design of Serres and Saile providescontrast between the front and rear edges, while Ordon features sleek curvesand a lustrous figure.

Standing tall, the Arnas boasts tall and thin walls for a contemporary countertopoption. Its sturdy base raises the basin slightly, putting the bold countertop basinon display by lifting the bowl from the vanity. These unique features bring eachAdesso basin to life, delivering a fresh personality into the bathroom.

Pair the basins with Raymor tapware, specifically the Torino and Academyranges, and then, for a European feel, combine the tapware with Guglielmi Sprintor Kludi Maris basin mixers, or Tercio or Logo basin mixers.

The products are available through Mico Design and Tradelink stores nationally.

Boyac’s Le Labo design is a metallic textile that brings new designpossibilities to the Australian contract scene.

Created by French designers Emmanuelle Legavre and Herve Langlais,Le Labo is interlocking metal plates and chainmail “textiles” that can beused for accessories and bespoke interior applications, including windowcurtaining, screens, room dividers, lighting and more.

Le Labo was launched in 2006 and has a 25-year history in metal workfor various industries,including fashion. LeLabo’s cutting-edgedesigns have beenchosen for the TradersHotels in Abu Dhabi, BeManos Hotel in Brusselsand the Accor conceptroom at Le Faubourg inParis, to name a few.

Integrity by Cosentino is manufactured from a single piece of Silestone.As a result, the benchtop and sink are perfectly united in design.It is the only sink unit on the market made from a single piece of quartzwithout any joints.

The Silestone line of sinks was launched with the Silestone IntegrityOne model, which features a rounded form. The collection has now beenexpanded with the introduction of the second model, Silestone Integrity Due,which features clean straight lines.

Both models come ina wide range of Silestonecolours, including brightpink, black, green, whiteand red. Designers andarchitects can adapt theproduct for any trend,offering customers infinitedesign possibilities.

JELD-WEN Australia, parent company of Australian brands Stegbar andRegency, aims to create innovative product design and development that isdriven by the changing way in which homeowners live in their homes.

One example is the Hiro sliding door system.

Hiro is a contemporary sliding door system, that combines modern framedesign with customizable door panel layout and materials. It also includesinnovative technology that stops door rattle and wobble.

JELD-WEN developed Hiro to give homeowners complete design control, with Hiro sliding doors include technology that stops rattle andwobble. They also feature contemporary, wide frames andoptional chair rails.

the added benefit of innovative technology that makes the door systemperform significantly better.

Homeowners will notice the difference with a contemporary wideframe and optional chair rails, allowing the flush-mounted infill panels tobe completely customized in terms of size, placement and material, withmultiple choices of panels that can be grooved, patterned or painted in glass mirror or veneer.

Ultra-premium paving manufacturer UrbanStone now offers an expansiverange of imported and local natural stone.

The Australian granite and other natural stone provides architects,engineers and builders with the same high level of quality assurance andsupply control for which UrbanStone has been renowned since 1994.

To examine the impressive range of products offered in the UrbanStonenatural stone collections, use the enquiry card.

The Zip HydroTap Compact 2 delivers boiling and chilled, filtered, crystalclear, great-tasting, healthier water instantly. The Compact 2 delivers4.5 litres per minute of chilled water and 3.5 litres per minute of boilingwater, with the convenience of splash-free delivery.

The Compact 2 has precise boiling and chilled temperature controls andutilizes unique technology via the sub-micron water filtration system.

The Compact 2 incorporates safety and energy-saving features including anextremely compact undersinkunit and an easy-tousedigital LCD display withmultiple functions. There isa choice of taps and fontsavailable. The Compact 2will help users save time,money, energy and water.

Xtreme has been tested by the Commonwealth Scientific and IndustrialResearch Organisation (CSIRO) to BAL–40 and BAL–FZ, which is fullycompliant to AS1530.8.1 and AS1530.8.2 within AS3959–2009. Thisstandard applies to products that can meet the highest bushfire conditions,such as direct exposure to flames, heat flux and ember attack.

These developments are a result of Trend Windows & Doors’ extensiveresearch, development and testing with the CSIRO over the past severalyears. This research has been conducted to develop Australia’s first, fullyintegrated flame-zone window and door bushfire protection system.

Accoya is a high-performance modified wood that matches or exceedsthe durability, stability and beauty of the best tropical hardwoods.

The Accoya wood process takes FSC-certified fast-growing wood and in anon-toxic process, creates a new durable and stable product.

Accoya is ideal for high-performance, sustainable, low-maintenanceproducts, including windows, doors, decking, cladding and external glulamstructural beams.

The first Accoya cladding projects have recently been completed inAustralia, including a refurbished apartment block in Melbourne with severalhundred metres of dark-coated screens.

Pandomo TerrazzoMicro flooring from Ardex was chosen by cosmeticsretail shop Gloss, located in the Queen Victoria Building in Sydney.

The project designers wanted to avoid visible grout lines on the floor butthey still wanted a terrazzo look. With the pressure of an opening deadlineapproaching in just a matter of days, Pandomo TerrazzoMicro was an idealchoice for this project.

Pandomo TerrazzoMicro is an advanced rapid-curing, cement-based insituflooring system. Pandomo TerrazzoMicro features low-VOC content, provenArdurapid technology from Ardex, a unique quick installation process and asystem that allows for deep set downs.

Designed by Cox Howlett and Bailey Woodland, the Albany EntertainmentCentre was a five-time winner for main contractor Doric at the MasterBuilders Excellence in Construction Awards in Western Australia. Thisincluded the coveted overall award for the landmark project.

The list of Bobrick products specified and installed at this project includesa variety of combined paper towel dispensers – some with waste bins andothers with an integral hand dryer – grab bars, DDA-compliant seats andthe KB110-SSWM surface-mounted stainless steel baby changing stations.

Bobrick’s distributors are Barnetts Architectural Hardware and RynatIndustries Australia.

Locker Group’s Safe T Perf, which is traditionally used as a flooringsubstrate, has been used on the footbridge across the Burwood Highwayin Melbourne.

In this application Safe T Perf acts as an anti-throw screen, preventingobjects being thrown from the bridge, while still allowing light and air toflow unobstructed in every direction. Anodized to specification and availablein vibrant colours, the Safe T Perf on this bridge makes a clear statement topassing traffic.

Safe T Perf is available in stainless steel, aluminium or mild steel, inthree profile sizes and depending on the application and material, can begalvanized, anodized or powdercoated.

Now more than ever, architects are turning to external cladding toprovide a long-lasting, energy-efficient finish on large-scale volume housingprojects. However, the growing trend towards the use of multiple types ofcladding or “composite design” is increasing the risk of water ingress ormoisture damage.

Practica MMC’s range of insulated wall and floor systems has beenspecifically designed to create a weather-tight and waterproofbuilding envelope.

Specified on recent projects including Australand’s Parkville and Burwoodprecincts and the West Homes development at the Pentridge Villagesite in Coburg, Practica MMC is helping to create long-lasting, energy-efficientbuildings.

Designed to an open brief by Michael McCann of Dreamtime Australia Designcompany, Concrete Blonde, one of Sydney’s newest and hippest bar and restaurants, isattracting interest for its inspirational decor.

To warm the atmosphere of the site, the team chose timber for the flooring but, insteadof opting for a solid board, they chose top-quality engineered boards from timber flooringcompany Havwoods.

Venture Plank is a 20 mm board with a 6 mm wear layer of European Oak and ahardwood ply backing. This ensures superior stability, even given Australia’s sometimesextreme climate, whilst stillproviding a wear layer equivalentto that of many solid boards.

Furthermore, the planksthemselves are exceptionallywell machined and are bothlonger and wider than the norm,making for a more imposingfloor. The Venture Plank rangeincludes unfinished, lacqueredand oiled boards in rustic andcharacter grades in a varietyof shades, from white oiled torichly smoked.

Forging ahead after the success of its 2011 show, the Salone Internazionale del Mobile – which celebrates the furniture and home decor sector – is currently preparing its next edition. The next event will run from 17–22 April 2012 at the Rho fairgrounds.

Featured alongside the Salone Internazionale del Mobile are the biennial events Eurocucina with FTK (Technology for the Kitchen), the International Bathroom exhibition, the annual International Furnishing Accessories exhibition, and SaloneSatellite, which is dedicated to young creativity.

Known collectively as Saloni, these events reflect the values of the organizers Cosmit and Federlegno-Arredo.

New research undertaken by Think Brick Australia, in collaboration with the University of Newcastle’s Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, has proven that clay brick produces superior, energy-efficient, sustainable environments in which people can live, work and play.

In 2002, Think Brick embarked on a 10-year thermal research program to understand how clay masonry can best achieve sustainable design. The first phase was completed this year and shows that, in terms of energy efficiency, cavity brick is Australia’s best building material by far.

The findings showed that the thermal mass of cavity brick levels out temperature swings during the heat of summer and the cold of winter, meaning clay brick housing does not need the same level of artificial cooling as other forms of construction during peak electricity demands in summer.

The full report and summary document, entitled Energy Efficiency – A Study of the Thermal Performance of Australian Housing, can be downloaded from the Think Brick website.

Recognizing design excellence across seven categories, the Houses Awards celebrates Australia’s best residential projects, with the best house receiving the premier award of Australian House of the Year. Each year, Houses Awards entries provide a unique insight into contemporary residential design and the contribution Australia’s architects and designers make to enhancing the way we live today.

Entry submissions close on Friday 30 March 2012 for projects completed between 1 January 2011 and 29 February 2012. Visit housesawards.com.au for more information.

The 2012 jury comprises Brit Andresen, the University of Queensland; Chris Connell, Chris Connell Design; James Jones, Architectus; Rachel Neeson, Neeson Murcutt Architects; and Cameron Bruhn, Architecture Media.

The 2012 Houses Awards are supported by Cult, Duravit, Fisher & Paykel, Haymes Paints, Heritage Council of Victoria, Stormtech, Viridian, Wood Solutions, Zepel Fabrics and SC Land. The winners and finalists will be showcased in the August 2012 issue of Houses.

If you have recently completed, or are currently working on a projectthat uses energy-efficient Viridian glass, now is your chance to submit yourwork for the 2012 Vision Awards, with a trip to the 2012 Venice ArchitectureBiennale as the major prize.

In a major change from previous years, the category prize structurehas been revised and a new Overall Vision Award Winner category hasbeen added.

Now in its fourth year, the Vision Awards will again be presented duringthe Institute’s 2012 National Architecture Conference, which will be held inBrisbane on 10–12 May 2012.

Submissions will be accepted until 31 April 2012 for projects completedbetween 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2011.

Building materials company Brickworks Building Products has launched anew website to inspire both designers and home owners.

As one of Australia’s largest building material companies specializing inthe manufacture of innovative clay, concrete and timber products, Brickworkshas created a new website that showcases how its products can be used.

The website, designplace.com.au, features detailed photography of alarge number of carefully selected residential, commercial and landscapeprojects, plus a brief summary of the vision behind each, demonstrating howBrickworks products can be used.

A range of products from the Brickworks group, including from AustralBricks, Bristile Roofing and Austral Masonry, are all featured on the site.

Australian interior, architecture and design event Designex 2012 willtake place 14–16 May 2012 at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The event gives architects and specifiers the chance to connect withlocal and international design leaders and to discover new products frominnovative brands.

Designex has engaged an advisory group that will continue to workalongside the new event team to ensure every aspect of the show is notjust relevant, but essential to exhibitors and visitors. New initiatives includea carefully curated and inspired seminar series, which will provide uniqueopportunities to gain inspiration from progressive local and internationaldesign thinkers, crafted by Office for Good Design.

The partnership of Austral Bricks and Ausbuild has launched an 8-stardisplay home in Fitzgibbon Chase, Queensland, to demonstrate to newhomeowners and builders how they can achieve superior energy efficiency,affordability and comfort in their own homes.

Using a thorough design process, the 8-star house on a narrow frontageblock takes advantage of natural heating, airflow and lighting, with carefullyplaced windows and correctly orientated rooms for comfortable and energyefficientliving throughout the year.

The home has achieved an 8-star rating under the Building Energy RatingScheme (BERS) ratings tool (the highest rating achievable is 10). The homefeatures brick products, roofing materials and clay paving from Austral Bricks.

Published by CCAA and Standards Australia, the fifth edition of theReinforced Concrete Design Handbook is now available for purchase.This latest edition brings the handbook into alignment with AS 3600Concrete Structures and Amendment No. 1-2010, as well as otherrelevant standards.

It references all the fundamental structural elements of reinforced concretedesign, including beams, suspended slabs, columns, walls and footings.Chapters on durability and fire resistance, as well as design examples, arealso included.

The strut-and-tie designmethod is covered in acompletely new chapter(reflecting the new sectionof AS 3600), while revisedrules for crack control inbeams and slabs are alsoaddressed.

To purchase thehard copy edition, visitinfostore.saiglobal.com/store/

Boyac has launched the new Grace collection by UK textile designerBernie de Le Cuona.

In this latest collection, de Le Cuona embraces old-world Europeanglamour and celebrates the fashionable elegance and style of Grace Kelly.Grace comprises an edgy mix of upholstery and curtaining fabrics in arange of classic designs and interesting textures that have been re-imaginedfor contemporary interior schemes.

The style features fresh takes on classic herringbone wool tweed inmodern shades and tones; exquisite woven linens in a geometric diamondpattern; a romantic fabricinspired by Italian cathedrals;a subtle herringbone featuringscattered paisley motifs; abeautiful linen in a textured,open-weave sheer; a luxurious,Art Deco-inspired embossedvelvet; cotton corduroy instatement colours; and afunky colourful twist on theclassic Prince of Wales check.

For the first time, the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) hascertified 100 Green Star buildings in one calendar year.

The GBCA launched the Green Star environmental rating system forbuildings in 2003. Since then, more than 390 buildings have achieved GreenStar ratings, with nearly 550 registered for Green Star certification. Theprevious highest figure in one calendar year was 88 certifications in 2009.The GBCA’s executive director – Green Star, Andrew Aitken says, “GreenStar has penetrated the office market in Australia to the extent that 18%of CBD office space is nowGreen Star certified.

“Beyond offices, GreenStar is influencing thedesign and construction ofa range of other buildingtypes, particularly educationfacilities, and we areoptimistic that 2012 willsurpass our achievements in2011,” he said.