Designing the Fifth Wall: Three Iconic Suspended Ceiling Projects

The ceiling is not just part of a structure,
but a canvas for artistic expression and innovative design

In this blog, we journey through the transformative power of suspended ceilings, showcasing how MBS Architectural, in collaboration with visionary architects and interior designers, has redefined spaces.

Suspended ceilings, our speciality, are not just about aesthetics; they are about creating environments that inspire, engage, and stand the test of time. From conceptualisation to installation, each project narrated here is a testament to the blend of functionality, creativity and technical prowess of the whole design team. Just us as we explore a diverse range of suspended ceilings that have not only enhanced spaces but also elevated experiences.

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DLA Piper – A Symphony of Design and Functionality

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Project:
DLA Piper
Product:
Perforated Lay-On Metal Panel, supported on a One Way Exposed Grid
Size:
1,200m2
Base Build Architect:
‍Woods Bagot
Fit-Out Architect:
‍Hassell
Acoustic Performance:
NRC 0.70 (Treated at Slab Level)

At the heart of DLA Piper’s new premises at 80 Collins Street lies a marvel of architectural foresight and functional design, conceived years earlier by Woods Bagot & MBS Architectural. This project is a testament to the power of enduring quality and sustainable innovation. The key feature is a sophisticated suspended ceiling design: perforated lay-on metal panel ceiling tiles that span an impressive 1,200m2, supported by an expansive one-way exposed suspension grid.

Designed with a relentless pursuit of excellence, the ceiling integrates seamlessly with the building’s chilled beam system. This eco-friendly approach to temperature control, with beams subtly tucked above the ceiling, allows for efficient air circulation. In summer, cool air cascades through the suspended ceiling perforations; in winter, warm comfort envelops the space.

But the genius of this design isn’t just in its functionality. The custom perforated perimeter bulkheads and floating column rings blend invisibly into the architecture, creating a serene and unobtrusive aesthetic. This ceiling isn’t just a part of the building; it’s a quiet nod to great design – where every element works in harmonious concert.

AMP – A Fusion of Form and Perspective

Project:
AMP Fit-Out
Product:
Cranked Aluminium Blades
Size:
1,200m2
Architect:
‍Hassell
Acoustic
Performance: NRC 0.70 (Treated at Slab Level)

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In this commercial fit-out, Hassell and MBS Architectural embarked on a mission to redefine the conventional suspended ceiling into a dynamic visual experience. Spanning 1,200m2, the heart of this design is the innovative use of cranked aluminium blades. Unlike traditional linear batten systems, this unique design involved a collaborative effort with our manufacturing partner to create a custom bracket. This allowed the Aluminium Battens to be installed at a 30-degree angle, breaking the mould of standard ceiling configurations.

The result is a captivating ceiling landscape. The angle battens create an illusion of movement, offering varying perspectives and directional viewing angles reminiscent of expanded mesh materials. This ingenious design makes the ceiling plenum a dynamic component of the office environment, changing its appearance based on the viewer’s position.

Furthermore, the open structure of the suspended aluminium battens facilitates seamless service integration above, ensuring a clean and uninterrupted suspended ceiling plane.

35 Collins Street – Crafting Elegant Acoustic Design

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Project:
35 Collins Street
Product:
Perforated Hook-On Metal Panels, Anodised,
1420x1420 with a Micro-Perforation
Size:
1,000m2
Architect:
‍Grimshaw
Acoustic Performance:
NRC 1.00

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The 35 Collins Street project stands as a beacon of architectural elegance, a testament to the meticulous design ethos of Grimshaw, complemented by the technical prowess of MBS Architectural. Encompassing 1,000m2, the project’s soul is its concealed grid-suspended ceiling: micro-perforated hook-on metal panels that marry sophistication with acoustic excellence.

This design story is one of collaboration and precision. The brief was deceptively simple yet demanding: large-format aluminium ceiling panels with organic anodised finishes, integrated service troughs, and the highest level of acoustic performance. MBS Architectural’s response? A resounding success if all aspects. This remains as one of our proudest achievements.

Over two years, our team worked hand-in-glove with Grimshaw, providing not just products but also design development support, specification advice and 3D printed models of intricate components, including the integrated service troughs. This partnership ensured seamless integration with other trades, emphasising that in great design, the devil is in the details.

In wrapping up our journey through the intricate and innovative world of suspended ceilings, it’s essential to underscore the pivotal role of architects' and designers’ visions in these remarkable creations. At MBS Architectural, we pride ourselves on our ability to transform these visions into tangible realities.

Each ceiling project we’ve explored today is not just a structure but a collaborative story, born from the imaginative minds of designers and brought to life by our expertise. Our role in this creative partnership is to provide the technical know-how, innovative solutions, and dedicated craftsmanship needed to translate visionary ideas into stunning suspended ceilings.

These projects serve as a testament to what can be achieved when creative visionaries and technical experts come together. MBS Architectural remains committed to these collaborative methods, ensuring that each architect and designer’s unique vision is not just met but exceeded, turning every ceiling into a statement of artistic and architectural excellence.