Terracotta roof tiles from Monier Roofing were installed on the Great Northern Hotel in Byron Bay as part of a massive re-roofing project.
Located in the heart of Byron Bay, the Great Northern Hotel is a local icon with its heritage features and old-school traditional charm drawing both locals and tourists alike. The original roof tiles on the hotel were laid back in 1939 and were in need of replacement.
Owners Tom and Catherine Moody wanted to retain the 1930s integrity, charm and grace of the grand old pub during the re-roofing. They were able to achieve their objective by specifying Monier ‘Marseille’ terracotta tiles in Tanbark and Sunset colours, which perfectly matched the original period of the building.
A classic French inspired terracotta roof tile, the Marseille comes in an extensive colour palette, providing an abundance of choice when matched with other building materials. Monier Roofing Specialists worked with the owners to select the colours that would best reflect the period, style and aesthetics of the hotel and were able to achieve stunning results.
Builder Greg Clark had recommended Monier terracotta roof tiles due to the Great Northern’s proximity to the ocean. Monier terracotta tiles are ideal for coastal locations that endure wind, spray and salt. Unlike other roofing materials, concrete and terracotta roof tiles will never rust or corrode with Monier terracotta roof tiles having the added advantage of colours that will never fade.
Monier terracotta tile’s permanent colour comes from its unique firing process, where each tile is glazed and then fired at 1096°C, baking the colour right into the tile and enabling it to withstand time and nature’s elements. Monier guarantees both the colour and performance of their terracotta roof tiles for 50 years. Being a natural and authentic material, terracotta is sustainable as it comes from the earth and can be recycled.
Visually, the roof of the Great Northern Hotel makes up approximately 30% of the building facade. The re-roofing would not only provide the perfect opportunity for a revamp, but also offer a chance to improve the overall performance and energy efficiency of the building.
Along with the aesthetic requirement to maintain the integrity of the hotel’s iconic past, the re-roofing project also sought to improve energy efficiency, keep unwanted noise out and allow guests and patrons to be comfortable all year round. With their thermal qualities, terracotta roof tiles help keep the cold out and the heat in. Additionally, the tiles are acoustically efficient and act as an extra barrier against dust and condensation entering the roof.
Expressing his satisfaction with the project outcomes, builder Greg Clark said he would highly recommend Monier to any future clients, architects or builders.
Image: The Great Northern Hotel in Byron Bay featuring Monier terracotta roof tiles
