An architectural statement, inspired by the techniques and geometrical rigour of boat building.

“The panels had not previously been used in this way which provided an opportunity to rethink how the product could be adapted to suit the technical challenges, while still maintaining the very strong design intent.”

James Perry, Senior Associate at fjmtstudio.

The Project

Almost an art installation, the use of BENCHMARK Evolution insulated panels enabled architects Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (fjmtstudio) to design a unique statement building which delivered outstanding thermal performance and the ability to withstand a corrosive marine environment.

Location: Sydney, Australia
Year : 2016
Wall: BENCHMARK Evolution
Finish : Woodland Grey

Incorporating Form and Function

BENCHMARK by Kingspan’s insulated panels unite high aesthetic values with high performance. The technical excellence of our science led research and development facilities allow us to offer industry leading guarantees.

Meeting the Challenges of the Design

Colourfast in the harsh marine environment of Darling Harbour, along with the integration of panels with a glass oculus were just some of the challenges in the design brief for this project. Kingspan’s technical team worked closely with the contractor to overcome these unique installation challenges. After some considerable hard work and perseverance, the panels were seamlessly integrated with the glass oculus and some complex geometry was created. Whilst the project spans a large distance, there are no unsightly joints and an external and internal face was provided. Furthermore, whilst a slim design was chosen which maximised useable internal space, Kingspan’s technical team ensured there was no loss of thermal resistance values

Strong Design Intent

The 891m2 of Evolution BENCHMARK panels provided a single façade component in which foam insulation lay at the heart of a finished internal lining and an external face. Kingspan delivered a series of complex geometrical rotations of 1m wide panels that tackled the complex design whilst delivering a watertight external skin. The Kingspan Technical team worked closely with fjmtstudio and specialist subcontractors JML Engineered Facades (NSW) to develop a complex design with custom vertical joint details.