13/09/2007
- TOP YOUR PROJECT
When
aluminium ceilings were first introduced into the
residential market, they hit the ground running.
Already
a product well established within the commercial sector,
the use of these high quality panels disproved any
theories that ceilings in the domestic arena should
be functional rather than fabulous, simple rather
than spectacular; a challenge undertaken with impressive
results.
Aluminium
ceilings are an excellent choice for the home environment.
Apart from their ’Green’ characteristics,
they are friendly to indoor air quality where humidity,
temperature fluctuation and condensation are the norm.
On
offer to designers, specifiers and customers alike
is a choice of three different systems, an option
of five panel widths, a palette of 42 colours and
aesthetic finishes, and a bespoke length availability
up to 6000 linear metres.
The ability to curve, add design elements, intermix
both colour and panel width for an alternative expression,
indulges the eye with visual stimuli.
The
maintenance free, stove-enamelled finish ensures a
definitive true colour indefinitely. The lightweight
panels do not swell or expand, crack due to extreme
changes in temperature or require a sub-frame to take
their weight. This makes them the ideal solution for
kitchens, bathrooms and other wet areas, such as exterior
applications or swimming pools. An occasional wipe
down with a damp cloth is all that is required to
keep the ceiling in pristine condition and decorating
becomes a thing of the past.
The
versatility and creative potential of an aluminium
ceiling is found in the systems available along with
the use and application of colour; for the designer
it has many advantages especially on a practical level.
The
uninterrupted clean lines of the closed system with
panel widths of 75mm and 150mm are the preferred choice
within a bathroom setting. Its smooth harmonious appearance
is ideal for a calming atmosphere. To add a new and
further dimension in smaller areas, the closed panel
works well when laid in a diagonal pattern.
The
boxed system has squared edged panels and gives the
appearance of a more defined linear look. The ability
to cleverly intersperse with a splash of contrasting
colour on the joints makes it a firm favourite in
kitchens. The system offers a width selection of 80mm
or 130mm; these can be used in a solitary style, or
an eclectic mix of the two adding a definite dimension
to the room.
The
round edged system is much softer in appearance, whilst
only available in a width of 84mm, the system is superb
for curves. The joint infill is flush to the face
giving the ceiling a smooth and pleasing impression.
Having
selected an aluminium ceiling, the myriad of possibilities
for its style, design and colour are only boundried
by the imagination. Consideration of what lies beneath
is an important factor when choosing colours and finishes.
Unless by choice, the ceiling installed should always
be ‘The Bridesmaid’ rather than ‘The
Bride’ and should compliment rather than outshine.
For
the designer, aluminium ceilings come into their own
for refurbishment and renovation projects as they
can be installed easily and offer tremendous scope
and flexibility. An innovative use of mirror panels
not only creates visual impact, but also optically
enlarges an area using light and reflection. Panels
laid diagonally add a whole new dimension to a room,
whereas a drop feature incorporating low voltage lights
and an extractor unit becomes a functional aspect
of the ceiling, a determining factor in the decision
of what criteria the ceiling is to fulfil.
The
system can be suspended beneath the existing ceiling
to reduce the volume of the room. Also it can be fixed
to an existing plasterboard ceiling, rapidly transforming
a room giving it a whole new persona.
Aluminium
ceiling panels can be used in a multiplicity of areas;
apart from the usual application onto a ceiling, they
can potentially also be installed on walls.
The systems are very durable and will stand up well
to daily life. To run the ceiling down onto a wall
in a concave curve makes an influential statement
within a room setting. If certain systems are used
then aspects of the colour scheme within the area
can be picked out using the infill between the joints
of the panels creating an atmosphere of quality and
design.
Using
aluminium panels in kitchens, bathrooms and wet areas
suits the rigorous demands and low maintenance lifestyle
of the 21st Century. Designers and homemakers alike
applaud the simplicity and ease of use of these panels
in somewhat high maintenance areas. Not only are they
an elegant solution for adding dimension, especially
in a bathroom, but also they are easy to clean. In
kitchens where grease, steam and condensation occur
daily, the benefits are immediately noticeable.
The
beauty of an aluminium ceiling, apart from its longevity,
is that the panels can easily be removed if necessary
for access to light fittings or cabling.
Lighting in many forms, speakers, air vents and air
conditioning can be effortlessly integrated, enhancing
the beauty and functionality of the ceiling.
As
all aluminium ceilings are bespoke, each ceiling is
unique and is an elegant solution for any room in
a home. |
