Floating Ceiling with Lightweight Supaslat Maxi Beam from Supawood

SUPASLAT MAXI BEAM Open floating ceiling provides airflow solution

Thoughtspace, the designers of a new Trader convenience store at the Qantas Terminal, Sydney Airport, were faced with the challenge to define the store area but also maintain adequate airflow without the expense of ducting air through an enclosed ceiling.

To solve the problem, an innovative design was developed proposing chunky timber beams to achieve an open ceiling reminiscent of an outdoor pergola. However, this design presented another problem.

How do you suspend heavy solid timber beams when the supporting ceiling above cannot cope with excessive weight?

Supawood's lightweight Supaslat Maxi Beam provided the perfect solution as this product weighs only 2kg/LM for a 200m deep beam.

This lightness is achievable because 80% of the beam is made up of a honeycomb core of recycled paper waste which is then covered with a finished certified MDF outer skin. The designers also had a good choice of low maintenance, durable timber laminate finishes.

The durable finish and structural stability of Maxi Beam eliminated the risk of warping and twisting, and the ongoing maintenance solid timber would require. Most importantly, the beams could be successfully suspended from the ceiling above in a manner that was almost invisible.

The aesthetics of Maxi Beam enabled the designers to fulfil their clients brief to create a contemporary open retail environment with industrial overtones aimed at attracting "grab & go" sales from passing travellers.

The result is an airy open space with excellent airflow defined by the ceiling beams overhead and a timber floor. Utilities are neatly integrated between the beams without blocking it in. The timber is complemented by bright yellow to create an attractive eye catching decor.

This project is an outstanding example of how Supaslat Maxi Beam can be used imaginatively.