The innovative and versatile alternative to painted glass, Akril , features in the newly constructed luxury residential development, Celcius, in the township of Toronto, New South Wales.

Located alongside Lake Macquarie's spectacular shoreline, Celsius redefines lakeside living. Set within two buildings, Celsius’ 16 single-level, executive apartments are characterised by dynamic qualities of space, natural light, air flow and solar access.

This architecturally-designed complex boasts premium contemporary fittings, fixtures and materials throughout, and Akril painted glass alternative features in all bathrooms, laundries, kitchens and lobbies.

Hobbs Jamieson Architecture’s main design objectives for Celsius included accommodating a variety of lifestyles and achieving an, aesthetically appealing, highly comfortable, yet essentially minimalist style.

Principles of energy efficiency also underpin Celsius’ design, with Hobbs Jamieson creating a setting that maximises environmental sustainability and promotes low energy consumption.
 
According to Chelsey Wrightson from Lilex, builders of Celsius, Akril painted glass alternative was a natural choice for the development as it offers many benefits complementary to the design philosophy of the buildings.

“We were seeking a fresh alternative to traditional tiles that was modern and versatile enough to be used throughout the whole development,” said Wrightson.

“We also wanted a product that was environmentally friendly, price competitive and offered both functional and decorative qualities. We found exactly what we were searching for, and more, with Akril,” she adds.

Akril’s contemporary look and modern edge also appealed to the creative minds behind Celsius, as did its ease of use and local production.

“Given the minimalist design of the development, Akril’s on-trend colour palette and designer finishes made Akril a natural choice for the project,” Wrightson said.

“Lilex successfully trained several tradesmen in handling Akril and, because it’s so easy to use and install, they picked up these skills in no time. Hence, installation was relatively straightforward and the waiting times that are usually associated with glass installation were significantly reduced,” she adds.

Thanks to Akril’s seamless, lightweight nature and luxurious yet practical design qualities, Hobbs Jamieson specified Akril’s Arctic White painted glass alternative panelling in a gloss finish to create walls in the bathrooms and splashbacks in the wet areas of the laundry and kitchen. In these areas, Akril was fixed directly to wet area plasterboard walls.

“Both the builders and architects, as well as residents, liked the idea of a grout-free home, and we found that Akril was an acceptable and innovative alternative to traditional tiled walls in wet areas,” said Wrightson.

In stark contrast to the minimalist tones found inside the apartments, Akril’s frosted matt Flamingo Red panelling was selected for installation in Celsius’ lobbies. Here, the painted glass alternative sheeting was fixed directly to a combination of normal plasterboard and blockwork walls.

Celsius has set a new benchmark in apartment living and Akril has been well-received by people viewing the property and residents alike, most people saying they love the finished look of the panelling, particularly in the bathrooms.

“Akril is a product that has contributed to the success of Celsius and one that has also helped us achieve a positive outcome for the project,” said Wrightson.

“We believe that Akril’s modern look, colour range and numerous decorative and functional qualities have reinforced the design of the apartments. Without hesitation, if we had our time again we would select Akril over any other product on the market. Celsius wouldn’t be Celsius without it,” she concludes.