It's a wrap facade by Miller Design

Architects and designers are constantly finding innovative uses for traditional materials, but the success of any design is dependent on the fabrication and installation.

The exterior of the new sciences building at the Massey University Albany Campus, constructed by facade specialist Miller Design, features terracotta tile cladding and matching fixed horizontal louvres. Terracotta also appears on the flashings and the deep reveals that frame the windows.

Miller Design business development manager Stijn Van den Eeden says the building envelope highlights a novel use for terracotta, which is one of the most durable materials.

"Terracotta is also a naturally sourced product, so the tiles and louvres are not 100% the same colour. The slight differences in shading give it a very natural look. The rectangular tiles, which are often called baguettes, also have an attractive matt finish. On this project they complement the roofing of the existing campus buildings."

In addition to the terracotta, the facade features extensive glazing with aluminium joinery, and adjustable aluminium louvres. Miller Design was also responsible for the fabrication and installation of the skylights.

"Due to the high number of interfaces between the different cladding products, this was a highly complex project," says Van den Eeden. "But the result is a very distinctive building."

Other projects undertaken by Miller Design include Mt Eden Prison and the Anvil in Mt Eden.

For more information, contact Miller Design, 128 Hugo Johnston Dr, Penrose, Auckland 1642, phone (09) 525 5788, fax (09) 525 6882. Or visit the website: www.millerdesign.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas