The Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is located in the heart of Shepparton, two hours north of Melbourne and a popular tourist spot with a diverse cultural heritage.
A beacon for arts and cultural enrichment, the museum is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. Filled with art, pottery, visuals, sculptures and more, this space brings together the community with its diverse exhibitions and active programs for all.
Designed by Denton Corker Marshall for Development Victoria as part of an expansion of the current SAM site, the new 5-storey multipurpose building combines a museum, visitors’ centre, art gallery, café, office and event space. It makes use of the impressive views of Victoria Park Lake while showcasing modern architecture.
The design of any gallery must take into account three key elements: space, light and sound. It helps ensure each piece of art is displayed in the best possible way – and the new Shepparton Art Museum is no exception to these rules.
Gallery spaces are generally large with mostly hard surfaces, creating a difficult environment to achieve noise control. To reduce distractions from loud sounds, VoglFuge perforated plasterboard ceilings were used throughout the interior spaces, helping to subtly control sound, while delivering a modern and contemporary feel to the galleries.
VoglFuge plasterboard ceilings combine a seamless look with acoustic control, and light fittings can easily be installed for elegant art display.
In the building’s office and conference rooms, perforated panels have been used on the walls and ceilings in a rich amber toned timber – visually appealing, but functional, which ensures visitors to the gallery are not disturbed.
Custom sliding walls were added to meeting rooms to create a truly versatile space. An operable wall was installed in conjunction with Lotus Doors featuring Au.diPanel in the meeting room, enabling the space to be efficiently divided for smaller or larger meetings.
The inbuilt café and bar is ideal for visitors to relax, or even for hosting events. The large café is located on the first level, with an adjoining deck area that leads to a stunning path around Victoria Park Lake. The rooftop bar is located on Level 4 with a spectacular viewing deck. Prioritising noise control and modern aesthetics, Au.diPanel ceiling panels were installed in these spaces.
Built by Kane Construction, the new SAM building is so much more than a museum; it’s a game changer for Shepparton and regional Victoria and provides an immersive experience for all. Au.diPanel and VoglFuge panels were installed by Consart.
Photographer: Kane Jarrod
