Terminal velocity

Suspended ceilings in the new arrivals area, the new pier building and connectors have a dual role to play. As well as containing essential services, the ceilings provide visual interest, helping to reduce the vast scale of the buildings and corridors.

The ceilings were supplied and installed by Forman Commercial Interiors, a company that has previously undertaken many similar projects at Auckland Airport. Company manager Tim Wittermans says the vast size of the ceilings combined with a tight deadline made this project a considerable challenge.

"The huge scale of the project meant there were multiple works under way at any one time, which added to the challenge."

Wittermans says the rigorous seismic design requirements were also a factor.

"The bracing was designed to withstand very strong earthquake forces, which made the installation a lot more complex than it would be for standard suspended ceilings."

The ceilings feature a screw-fix grid system with Gib board linings and a mix of plywood panels and Armstrong Ultima ceiling tiles.

Forman Commercial Interiors is part of Forman Group, which was established in 1913. In addition to suspended ceilings, the company specialises in the manufacture, distribution and installation of aluminium and steel stud partitioning, raised access floors and acoustic wall treatments.

For more details, contact Forman Commercial Interiors, PO Box 12-643, Penrose, Auckland 1642, phone (09) 571 0511. Website: www.forman.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas