A steel solution from Studco Building Systems helped the contractors working on the Cockburn Aquatic Recreation Centre (ARC) in Perth meet design challenges during construction.

The Cockburn Aquatic Recreation Centre (ARC) in Perth, Western Australia is a $109-million multipurpose centre designed to house a swimming pool, netball and basketball courts, cafes and the new training facilities for the AFL team, Fremantle Dockers.

Designed by international architects Sandover Pinder, the ARC features curved 2.4m deep sunlights, suspended acoustic panels above the indoor swimming pool, and an impressive entrance foyer incorporating large suspended sweeping bulkheads.

Assigned to the task, the contractors Exclusive Commercial Linings had their fair share of technical considerations including framing up the suspended Hera Design acoustic panelling from the ceiling of the 25m swimming pool. Due to the corrosive nature of the swimming pool environment, they sought a steel supplier that could back the longevity of the ceiling system.

Exclusive Commercial Linings reached out to their dedicated plasterboard and steel framing supplier, Perth Plasterboard Centre for a steel solution that would not only last but provide the technical support for a precise and flawless installation.

After considering several steel building system manufacturers, Perth Plasterboard Centre decided on Studco who would not only warrant their system, but also supply product in a fast and efficient manner. Studco manufactures their steel building systems from Australian made BlueScope Steel and backs their product in aquatic and challenging applications.

John Indrizzi, General Manager at Exclusive Commercial Linings, said: “Exclusive Commercial Linings pride themselves in being an innovative business, which aligned well with the innovative proactive approach of Studco. More than just supply of product to a project, Studco worked collaboratively with Exclusive Commercial Linings as a partner on this project.”

During the course of construction, Studco visited the site continuously to provide advice, conduct quality assurance checks, and identify any alternative engineering options that would provide more value to Exclusive Commercial Linings.

Studco’s steel systems were also sought for the impressive foyer area with sweeping suspended bulkheads, and large curved sunlights that extended 2.4 metres from the ceiling to the roof. These structural features were made possible by the extensive guidance of the Studco Engineering team, which had considerable experience in these types of designs, having worked on other notable projects such as the Anglican Church Grammar School in Brisbane where similar skylight designs were implemented.

Studco EZY Track, a sliding strap that allows for complicated radiuses to be set out and locked in place, was employed to achieve these detailed curved features. Fixed to the ceiling joists, the studs were then screwed into place and suspended down to the ceiling line. Using a PVC trim, Exclusive Commercial Linings could square stop a sharp edge for a smooth transition into the ceiling. The flexibility of steel studs and a detailed engineering service allow architects, contractors and plasterers to achieve contemporary outcomes that aren’t easily possible using traditional timber framing.

Studco’s ‘proactive hands-on approach’ was greatly appreciated by the team at Exclusive Commercial Linings who commented that “reviews of completed work and quality assurance checks on site assisted in identifying alternate products and processes available to improve build time and efficiencies”.

Studco prides themselves on being not only a supplier of steel building systems, but also a construction partner to their customers. Providing detailed solutions, on-site inspections and engineering services is only a small part of the service they offer; Studco’s mission is to make sure their customers can be industry leaders that provide a competitive edge and quality finish.

Studco’s versatile team can work directly with architects, distributors and contractors to achieve highly technical designs.

Architecture & Design Team

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