The Petchy academy Features Statement SAS International Acoustic Wall Panelling Solution

11th December 2008

Market leader SAS International helped The Petchey Academy in North London with a touch of colour as well as providing a practical acoustic solution for its ‘state-of-the-art’ building, designed by Aedas Architects.

The purpose designed academy on Shacklewell Lane in Hackney offers students vibrant, modern surroundings and facilities for learning and development. SAS International provided a bespoke architectural metalwork solution. The curved wall was accommodated by faceted wall panels which could follow the whole elliptical wall shape.

“We were happy that the integration of ventilation and acoustics could be achieved within the same system, and without different sized perforations in the panels,” commented Derek Draper, Architectural Assistant at Aedas Architects.

Aedas Architects have created a striking design which features a large-open plan atrium area. In this area a robust wall panelling system for the internal space was required, with aesthetics also being an important consideration. Perforated panels were fitted with an acoustic material to assist in achieving the required BB93 reverberation time. The panelling was required to fit around a statement walled curved area within the building, situated in a main entrance and thoroughfare area, visible from outside.

Door and window openings, ventilation intake and outlet grilles were also integrated within the wall panel.

Panels were also arranged so that the horizontal joints were staggered, right up to the full height of the wall at 6000mm, to create a pattern of plain and perforated panels. Also achieving a visually appealing look, panels were finished in a stunning warm yellow colour.

The bottom section of panelling in this high traffic area needed to be especially robust and achieve specific impact resistance, backed with Fermercell board for this purpose. A seamless flow was also achieved with panels wrapping around doorways.

SAS International’s System 150 metal ceiling system was also used in all areas requiring mechanical ventilation - kitchens, specialist teaching areas and ICT rooms.

Metal offers a number of benefits across many criteria, including sustainable, practical and aesthetic considerations. Polyester powder-coated metal offers a highly durable and easy to clean solution with an exceptional life span and minimal maintenance costs. It is the resistance of this coating to chipping, scratching and accidental damage that ensures this consistency of performance. The lifespan of SAS metal solutions in normal interior conditions is in excess of 25 years.

Studies have shown that exam results in state schools with good building conditions are on average 17% higher than similar schools elsewhere. The Petchey Academy is a 1,200 place mixed Secondary School and was commissioned under the Government’s City Academies programme and sponsored by the Jack Petchey Foundation.

SAS International is a member of the British Council for School Environments (BCSE).

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