Rockhampton North Special School, part of the Education Queensland campus, has recently undergone a significant upgrade, expertly designed by dbARCH. This enhancement provides additional classroom space tailored for students with complex needs, ensuring they benefit from highly adapted and individualised programs.
At the heart of the design are the timber lining products from SUPAWOOD in Blackbutt SUPAFINISH, which infuse the school's interior with a warm, natural ambiance. The use of timbers and biophilic design principles has been proven to help students maintain focus and foster productive learning environments. Natural materials, such as timber, stimulate key developmental areas including sensory and motor skills, stress and fatigue management, cognitive abilities, emotional wellbeing, and attention spans.
The incorporation of SUPACOUSTIC Blackbutt panels significantly improves the acoustic performance of interior spaces such as the breakout areas and stairways. However, the innovative design by dbARCH saw these panels used in a 3D format that was both creative and visually stunning. These panels also enhance sound absorption and reduce reverberation, creating a calm, conducive learning environment. The product is lab-accredited for its acoustic performance. This architectural lining solution also comes with the following benefits:
Design flexibility: These versatile panels can be used for various design applications, from feature walls in classrooms to decorative elements in common areas, supporting the school’s modern design vision while meeting functional requirements.
Sustainability: Timber-look panels align with sustainable design practices, offering the aesthetic appeal of natural wood while being produced with eco-friendly materials and processes.
Customised framing: For ease of installation, SUPAWOOD provided a modular system to easily achieve the intricate 3D design. This included developing a prototype for the installer to familiarise him and his team ahead of the installation.
Robert MacGregor from G&L Dunnett Plasterboard, the installer of the SUPAWOOD products, praised the project: "The product itself was outstanding, the installation process was seamless, and the client was extremely satisfied.”
Project details
Project: Rockhampton North Special School
Location: 353-359 Dean Street, Rockhampton North QLD
Architect: dbARCH
Installer: G&L Dunnett Plasterboard
Products: SUPACOUSTIC, SUPAFINISH, SUPALINE
Finish: Blackbutt SUPAFINISH
