2024 LSAA Design Awards Entry #4866 Link at Langley - Media Release
Project Title: Link@Langley ETFE Atrium
Hero Image: 4866_Link@Langley_03_aerial.jpg
Caption: The Link@Langley ETFE Atrium - photograph by Skyskills Industries Pty. Ltd.”
Media Release Statement
Link@Langley ETFE Atrium: A modern Approach to a Glazed Canopy.
Nestled along the picturesque Perth riverside, this custom-designed, 1665m2 single-layer ETFE canopy crowns the central atrium of a revitalised shopping, dining, and entertainment district, transforming the former Fortescue Metals HQ into a contemporary urban hub.
The architectural vision for the Link@Langley ETFE Atrium was clear in both intent and design. The goal was to create a visually striking, yet functional glazed feature skylight element that enhances the appeal of the riverside redevelopment. The aesthetic aim was to have a visually clear atrium roof, creating a sense of open sky while protecting patrons and visitors from the elements. This massive structure, 65 metres long and 40 metres wide, sits between seven and eight storeys above the atrium floor, creating an expansive and inviting space below.
ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) was chosen for its durability, high transparency, and lightweight properties, making it ideal for this large atrium application. The single-layer ETFE used in this project is printed with a 16mm silver-dot frit pattern on the underside to provide a level of thermal comfort while ensuring visibility to the sky above.
ETFE is not only a lightweight and durable material but also an environmentally friendly choice. This incredibly lightweight material requires far less supporting steelwork than a more traditional glazed roof. This translates into an overall embodied carbon saving for the building, due to greatly reduced usage of construction materials. The high transparency of ETFE allows for natural light penetration, reducing the need for artificial lighting and thereby lowering the energy consumption of the atrium. In addition to light weight and light transmission benefits, the production of ETFE film has a low environmental impact, and the material is fully recyclable, aligning with modern sustainability standards.
The Link@Langley ETFE Atrium enhances the visitor experience by creating an inviting and comfortable environment. The transparent canopy allows for an abundance of natural light, making the space feel open and airy while providing protection from the elements. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the riverside setting in a controlled climate, adding to the appeal of this vibrant urban hub.
Contact Details
Alastair Morris – Marketing Manager
MakMax Australia
07 3900 5600
This project received a Citation of Merit at the LSAA 2024 Design Awards