Located in one of New Zealand’s fastest growing suburbs Rolleston, south from Christchurch is the Te Ara Ātea or the Rolleston Library and Community Centre. The design of Te Ara Ātea was inspired by the cultural history and landscape of the region with the idea of providing the community a space for arts and culture.

Over 700 Black Firesafe MDF panels with American White Oak crown cut veneer were specified for the expansive ceiling, with custom perforations following the acoustic engineer’s precise requirements. Our team hand selected over 300 layons for the veneer to provide a level of cohesiveness while still subtly showcasing the variation of colour and grain that natural timber offers. The black MDF of the panels provided the contrast the design team desired for the perforated timber ceiling, while delivering a Group 1-S fire rating — easily exceeding the Group 2 rating required.

Photography @ Kevin Hawkins