Supacoustic panels from Supawood Architectural Lining Systems were
selected for the main entrance atrium at the new Gold Coast University Hospital
to address noise reverberation control and high fire hazard requirements.
The $1.7 billion GCUH at Southport Queensland is the largest public
health project undertaken in Australia to date, and has been designed by a consortium
consisting of Silver Thomas Hanley, PDT and HASSELL.
The main entrance and foyer of the hospital building form a huge atrium
space lit by natural light through the large amount of glazing connecting the
interior with the surrounding parkland. The design, however, created
reverberation issues due to the large spaces and acoustically reflective
glazing work.
Additionally, BCA required the highest possible fire hazard rating, Group
1 for the main entrance and exit of the hospital.
Supawood’s Supacoustic products completely met both requirements and
also achieved the aesthetics demanded by the design. The Supacoustic panels successfully
muted the acoustics, achieving a non-clinical and welcoming atmosphere. Supplied
in concept veneer, the panels on 12mm FR MDF were also Fire Group 1 certified.
From an aesthetics perspective, the perforated panels in Supafinish Hoop Pine bring
the warmth of timber to the hospital, with the concept veneer ensuring
consistency of colour and grain over a broad surface area.
Supawood acoustic panels and ceiling tiles in Supafinish were also
installed throughout the Clinical Services Building and Internal Patient Unit
of the hospital.