Youth Aboriginal centre enhanced by Array

From the ashes of the old, demolished facility, CK Architecture have designed the new Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation Building, constructed by Projex Building Group. The new purpose-built facility will enhance services provided to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people, and families, offering them a familiar and supportive environment. 

The unique interior beautifully reflects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through artwork and storytelling design elements. As a care-oriented facility containing spaces for offices, functions, art and music recording, acoustic comfort was crucial in creating a supportive environment. Zen embossed acoustic panels were installed to combat unwanted noise while adding curvature to walls in earthy tones.

Array 24mm acoustic ceiling baffles were installed throughout these various spaces, in a direct fix application, offering a high sound absorption rating while contributing to a warm and bright ceiling in Cream (908), giving interest and depth to an otherwise flat ceiling. EchoPanel 24mm – used as the ceiling baffles in the Array system – is a first-rate sustainable acoustic solution that delivers peaceful atmosphere through its sound absorbing properties.

Sustainability was a key pursuit for the project, with a 5-star Green Star certification pending. The Green Star Buildings v1.0 tool evaluates various aspects of a building's performance, including energy efficiency, water usage, indoor environmental quality, and materials selection. For instance, the centre uses 65% less energy compared to similar builds (ACT Government), achieved through efficient lighting and solar power, among further sustainable infrastructure. If awarded, it will be one of the first ACT-based projects to achieve a 5-star rating under the new tool.