Timber slats are increasingly being preferred by architects and designers over traditional concrete and steel materials that have dominated the construction industry for several decades. Recognised for its sustainability, quality and speedy construction time, timber offers a versatile and aesthetically pleasing alternative to other popular building products.
Additionally, technological advancements have introduced fire-rated and acoustically-rated options in timber, making it a material of choice with several functional benefits in diverse project applications.
The rising popularity of timber slats has also been observed at Atkar with demand for their Au.diSlat product increasing steadily over the past two years.
Ben Sangster, an architectural consultant at Atkar explains that timber slats represent a return to minimal, material-driven spaces that champion natural textures and clean, organic lines, creating a continuous linear effect, which is equally at home in contemporary as well as traditional spaces.
Several recent projects demonstrate the many ways Atkar’s Au.diSlat timber slats have been incorporated into modern design for both functionality and aesthetics.
French provincial styling was achieved at popular French eatery Bistro Guillaume through the use of an integral seamless Au.diSlat ceiling solution with a high gloss finish. The provincial style ceiling contributed to the aesthetics while also providing the restaurant with superior acoustic performance to reduce noise and create a comfortable dining atmosphere for patrons.
A similar installation at the Huntingdale Golf Club saw the use of the slatted Au.diSlat ceiling system in a stylistic spotted gum finish to complement the unique folded roofline design of the club house. This project also benefitted from the acoustic and aesthetic qualities of Au.diSlat in the dining and communal spaces.
In addition to hospitality design where timber slats are increasingly being preferred for their unique characteristics, Au.diSlat is also utilised in a broad range of commercial projects from sporting clubs to hospitals and education facilities.
Au.diSlat was recently specified for the revamped Simond’s Stadium, home to the Geelong Football Club, the state-of-the-art Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, and Trinity College’s cutting-edge precinct at the University of Melbourne.
Mounted in a modular panel array and treated acoustically with Atkar’s integrated acoustic backing, the Au.diSlat creates a distinctive 3D effect to suit both commercial and domestic projects.
According to Ben Sangster, Au.diSlat follows a unique ‘less is more’ design philosophy, demonstrating the desired design simplicity sought by the market. Au.diSlat is custom designed and manufactured to the specific requirements of each project, and is also easy to install.
