At the water's edge

While it is necessary on a historic site to acknowledge the past, it also important to look to the future. This can be done by using contemporary products to fulfil modern architectural design requirements.

When the architects approached Umicore about panelling for the facade of the Ferry Apartments and Shore Terraces, the company had what was required, says general manager Olivia Largeteau.

"They wanted a rectangular panel with a vertical profile that would offer a staggered shingle look," she says. "We showed them our Quartz-Zinc® Dexter® panels and found that they fitted their design requirements. As the panels are pre-shaped and can be installed without specialist tools, it was a very cost-effective solution."

On the Glebe Harbour project the VM Zinc panels were professionally installed by Copperform, a company that specialises in zinc and copper installation.

In addition to the main facade, Umicore customised Quartz-Zinc panels to create a number of design features throughout the project.

"VM Zinc material is such a malleable and flexible building product, it can be used to achieve any architectural concept," says Largeteau.

VM Zinc is an extremely low-maintenance product with a lifespan of up to 100 years. It requires no coating or varnishing, making it particularly suitable for marine environments.

"VM Zinc panels continue to build a protective layer or patina over time and will self-repair imperfections and scratches," says Largeteau.

For further information, contact Umicore Australia, PO Box 727, Suite 101, 55 Falcon St, Crows Nest NSW 2065, phone (02) 9955 4400, fax (02) 9955 1144. Website: www.vmzinc.com. Copperform, phone (02) 9317 3128, fax (02) 9317 3129. Website: www.copperform.com.

Story by: Trendsideas