A recent project in Melbourne showcased the versatility of Pep Core panels from Allplastics Engineering in a unique application that extended the use of the swimming pool beyond the summer months.

The Allplastics Architectural and Building division supplied their scratch-resistant, anti-slip, translucent and lightweight STAGE 40 Pep Core panels to SAAJ Design in Melbourne. The brief for the designer was to maximise the use of precious external space around the house by making them multipurpose in function.

For instance, the use of a pool in Melbourne is restricted to the warmer months of late spring to autumn. With the panels from Allplastics, the designer was able to make this space usable for the other six months of the year.

Allplastics’ solution was to form the edge of the pool with a profile to accept coloured aluminium joists that span full width. Stored in a pool equipment enclosure, the 2.0m x 1.0m STAGE 40 panels from Allplastics (typically used for stage platforms) span across the joists and ‘floor’ of the pool. Along with the perimeter terrace and via two ¼-tonne steel glass ‘gates’, the pavilion connects to the pool creating an open floor plate measuring about 14m long x 9.0m wide. A trafficable platform over the pool offers multiple possibilities during the non-swimming season (parties, mini tennis, mini basketball, junior bike riding, etc). Hence, the typical suburban ‘lawn’ has been recreated as a moveable platform over a pool.

The translucent flooring is available in standard panel sizes of 2m x 1m x 40mm thick, and can be easily lifted by one person. LED lighting beneath the panels can add to the ambience.

STAGE 40 panels can support loads of 500 kg/m².

Key features of STAGE Pep Core panels include anti slip surface (DIN rating); easy installation; easy handling; excellent light-scattering properties; excellent UV and weather resistance; exceptional load capacity; innovative translucent optic; meets AUST BCA fire tests; outstanding scratch resistance; and superior impact resistance.