Glass reinforced concrete once again proved its versatility and artistic merit in this project.
GRC Environments was approached to come up with a solution that would not only cover up the inner workings of a major building, but that would also double as a design feature.
How we answered the brief
Fender Katsalidis Architects poured their blood, sweat and tears into designing the Flinders Street Towers and its stunning, internal courtyard. But the riser shaft ducts and pipe work between the balconies detracted from all of their work. We used GRC to create decorative, three-dimensional diamond panels that compliment the courtyard.
How and why GRC was used
GRC was used as a lightweight alternative to concrete. The team installed 104 panels, made using fibreglass moulds created from plaster. Each panel catches the light at different angles, so although they’re all the same colour, their shadows result in different shades. The panels run over 12 storeys in four rows, adding another artistic layer to the courtyard with its vertical garden, upside-down trees and painted mural.
The team involved
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Steve Fennell
Managing Director
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Gino Giacobbe
Director
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Paul Dennis
Supervisor and Mould Maker
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Luke Giacobbe
Robot Guru
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Billy Nicholson
Floor Manager
Our principals have worked in the building industry since 1995 and are leaders in GRC/GFRC use in Australia. Meet the crew
Our project partners
Thanks to our partners, Charles Rickard Engineers and Fender Katsalidis Architects for their help in this project.