The Diplomat, a 1980s apartment building in Woolloomooloo NSW, has had its entry areas upgraded with a dramatic use of timber SUPASLAT slatted ceiling and wall panelling.
Although not a heritage building it is within the Woolloomooloo Conservation Area so the architects, PJ Maitland Design, wanted their design to remain sympathetic with the building’s surroundings. To introduce the aesthetics and warmth of timber and apply it to curved surfaces where required, a suitable slatted wall and ceiling lining was needed.
SUPAWOOD’s SUPASLAT timber slatted lining system was chosen to help achieve this.
The SUPASLAT timber slats begin under the portico outside and create a directional flow through the new glass doors into the interior beyond. Within both entry areas the ceilings form sweeping curves into which LED strip lighting has been incorporated. Feature walls have also been lined with matching slats into which service doors have been cleverly integrated to hide utility areas.
The slats used are Tasmanian Oak Hardwood with a clear finish and have been matched to other timber used in the spaces. Curves, access doors and working around existing fittings are all achieved using a combination of loose slat and pre-finished slatted panels on a black backing board. This project demonstrates the adaptability of the SUPASLAT slatted lining system and how simple areas of a building can be easily transformed into exceptional contemporary spaces with appeal and welcoming warmth.
Photography by Guy Wilkenson
