SUPAWOOD’S Supaslat MAXI BEAM lightweight beams have been used to transform the tired 90s interior at Westfield Penrith’s fresh food market in NSW into a vibrant contemporary setting.
The designers, Scentre Group, needed to find a chunky look timber beam product, which was light enough to suspend from the existing ceiling without the major expense of reinforcement to the overhead structure. It was vital that all work could be undertaken cleanly in a live environment with minimal disruption to trade in the market.
The designers chose Supaslat MAXI BEAM because it is light in weight, clean to cut onsite and easy to install with its proprietary fixing system. The beams are also available in a choice of economical low maintenance and durable concept timber laminate finishes.
To achieve a new look and invoke a more intimate atmosphere in the market while staying within a specific budget, the designers decided to use MAXI BEAM fabricated into open raft like panels in a light rustic timber finish. This meant lighting and other services could be easily integrated between the beams and easy access to the area above maintained. To further lower the ceiling and enhance the effect of the suspended timber rafts, the surface above has been painted matt black.
The warmth and texture of the Rustic Oak finish in a SUPALAMI laminate ensures the durability of the beams used in the refurbishment. The beam configuration also complements the existing tiled floor and the theme chosen by most of the retailers for their shopfronts.
Further, MAXI BEAM mixed with metal beams above the seated area of the fast food hall achieves a pergola effect. Plants have been entwined through the beams to give the feel of a garden setting, making it a perfect place to grab a snack while on your shopping trip.
This project shows how a simple creative use of MAXI BEAM can achieve an effective economical transformation of a tired environment and provide an enhanced shopping experience for the patrons who frequent the market.
Image: Photography by JadaArt
