Timber panels from Supawood Architectural Lining Systems have been extensively used in The Glasshouse, a multicultural/performing arts centre that includes a 600-seat theatre and has become a landmark in Australian contemporary architecture.

Designed by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer and built by Hansen Yuncken, The Glasshouse in Port Macquarie has collected an accolade of awards since completion, including three for Australian Timber Design.

Dominating the architecture throughout The Glasshouse, Supawood timber panels are also intrinsic to the building’s acoustic excellence. Working closely with the design team throughout the project, Supawood manufactured and installed over 2000sqm of Supaveneer Spotted Gum NTV panels for three key interior areas – the shell wall, the theatre interior and the twisted acoustic panels.

Shell wall

The timber shell wall in the foyers extends over 12m from ground level to the height of the building, and is visible through the exterior glass skin of the building. Supaline solid panels with hand applied thickened red edges and concealed fixings were cleverly overlapped to wrap around curves in the walls.

Theatre interior

The timber panels, custom perforated with a black infill pattern reminiscent of a music score, tower up and curve around on every side. Combining functional and decorative features, the panels are absorptive, reflective and diffusive to meet the demanding acoustic specifications.

Twisted panels

For the most complex lining challenge in this project, Supawood fabricated unusual twisted acoustic panels as complete units in the factory and transported them to the site ready to mount.

The Glasshouse project showcased Supawood’s ability to deliver an extremely intrinsic and detailed panelling project from the initial design through to installation to meet the quality expectations of the architects, acoustic consultants and client.