Rockpanel adds natural elegance to sleek sports centre

The visual warmth of timber with non-combustible Rockpanel Woods 

Miller Bourne Architects were responsible for the project design. Partner Christian Richards, “For the new build expansion of the centre we selected brick elevations for the ground floor, to match those used for the existing building, in order to visually link both elements. For the upper floors we wanted a clear distinction in materials to emphasise that this was a new addition, and to express the different volumes. Originally we considered timber boarding but, due to concerns about fire safety, we decided to consider other options. The Rockpanel range offered exactly what we wanted. It had a good range of ‘timbers’ to choose from and also addressed our concerns with regard fire compliance. It also delivered a maintenance free option, which was particularly attractive to the client. Rockpanel were very helpful during the technical design phase, and the installation went smoothly.” 

Buckinghamshire-based Total Construction, specialise in projects across London and the South East, they fulfilled the role of main contractor for the ambitious project, which progressed while the centre remained largely unaffected and open to the public. 

Meeting the highest fire standards 

Southern Maze Ltd were an integral part of the improvement works at Caterham School Sports Centre. Commercial Manager, George Alabaster,  

“We provided the cladding design, supply and installation services on the project, incorporating all supporting structure and cavity fire barrier installations to form the cladding element of the extension structure. Rockpanel was specified on the basis it was able to provide the desired natural timber effect, and the panels met the highest European fire safety standards, being classified A2-s1, d0. We installed panels of Rhinestone Oak from the Rockpanel Woods range of surface designs. These were sized in vertical lengths to resemble plank sections of timber, and face-fixed using Rockpanel colour-matched mechanical rivets, to an adjustable horizontal metal framing system. RAL 7030 colour-matched stone grey Rockpanel was also used as accent elements to frame window sections and other features. The light weight and versatility of the panels also helps speed up the installation process.” 

An elegant, future-proof community resource 

The completed, enlarged centre, with its elegant wedge-shaped side elevation, sits naturally into the slope of the land and appears as one seamless, contemporary structure that inhabits its surroundings with a confident, future-proof aesthetic. The organic warmth offered by the super-realistic Rockpanel Woods facades contrasts well with the sleek, minimalist grey windows, doors, and other architectural details. It is clearly a building that the local community takes pride in and already has great fondness for.