Best of Building Interiors Worldwide - A guide by Rockfon- email-sales@mssindia.in

MAKE
—THE—
DIFFERENCE
<<
CEILING ARCHITECTURE

Ceilings matter!
A clear sky in winter can lift your mood

— a well-designed ceiling can contribute

significantly to your wellbeing, too.

Ceilings represent a large proportion of

the surfaces in a building and yet are

often only considered as a functional

surface. This book demonstrates how

functional ceilings can blend easily with

the latest architectural trends.

The case studies shown illustrate how

industry-leading architects found inspired

and courageous solutions to this duality.

Enjoy.

— Herman Voortman

Rockfon CEO

00:
table of Contents

A. P. Møller School
Schleswig, DE . . . . . . . . . 02
Beekdal Lyceum
Arnhem, NL . . . . . . . . . . 12
Court of Justice
Ghent, BE . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Fiberline
Middelfart, DK . . . . . . . . 28
Gateway Academy
Thurrock, UK . . . . . . . . . 40
GeoCenter Møns Klint
Møns Klint, DK . . . . . . . . 52
Hof van Saksen
Nooitgedacht, NL . . . . . . 62
Le Monde
Paris, FR . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Mobalpa Showroom
Paris, FR . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Peace Palace
The Hague, NL . . . . . . . . 90
Post Office
Apeldoorn, NL . . . . . . . 100
Swedish Environmental
Protection Agency
Stockholm, SE. . . . . . . . 106
The Post Headquarters
Stockholm, SE. . . . . . . . 116
University Medical Centre
Groningen, NL . . . . . . . 124
University Medical Centre
Education Building
Groningen, NL . . . . . . . 132

UK 01

01:
The A.P. Møller School is a gift of the 14,600–square-metre school. The three- The ceilings in the school support the

A.P. Møller and Chastine McKinney Møller storey building is built around two large, simplicity of the school’s design. To add

Foundation of Danish shipping magnate central spatial elements – one containing to the feeling of calm and simplicity,

Maersk McKinney Møller to the Danish- common areas with a canteen, reception the architect firm C.F. Møller developed

speaking minority of Schleswig-Holstein hall and knowledge centre, the other with a lighting strip for the ceilings which

in northern Germany. Danish Queen a large sports and multi-purpose hall with contains both lighting and ventilation in

Margrethe inaugurated the school on three arenas. The sloping roof connects the same band, contributing to the orderly

September 1, 2008. The school is the these two spatial elements with yellow- feeling of the ceilings.
ProjeCt
second Danish-language school across the brick masonry. A.P. Møller School
Danish border in Germany. In many places, the ceilings are mounted

The building, with its slanting copper roof, as island solutions. The sound absorption
loCation
Schleswig, Germany
The A.P. Møller School is a Danish is beautifully-situated in a lovely natural qualities of these ceilings are excellent

secondary school (7-10th grades) and a area with a view of Silen fjord and the since the extremely stringent requirements arChiteCt
gymnasium constructed on former military copper towers of the Slesvig cathedral in for acoustics and sound absorption in
C.F. Møller
Århus, Denmark
land. There is room for 625 students in the the town of Schleswig. school buildings must be met. <<

Client
A.P. Møller
og Hustru Chastine
McKinney Møllers Fond

ProduCt
Sonar®

03

!
To add to the feeling of calm and simplicity, the
architect firm C.F. Møller developed a lighting
strip for the ceilings which contains both lighting
and ventilation in the same band, contributing to
the orderly feeling of the ceilings.

06

!
The ceilings in the school support the simplicity
of the school’s design.

10

02:
Anyone who looks at the new Beekdal Fire safety, acoustics and hygiene are floor and ceiling in his school design. This

Lyceum in Arnhem will see that it delivers important aspects that are subject to a effect makes the visitor feel less lost in

more than just professional work. The variety of requirements when it comes the space, which also contributes to the

combination of modern architecture and to installing a good ceiling. However, positive feeling that the school wants to

sophisticated interior design has created schools also attach great importance to radiate. The designer himself particularly

a unique building in which students and aesthetic values. The Beekdal Lyceum utilises Rockfon products and applications

teaching staff find a modern, comfortable has a relatively low-hanging ceiling in this modern school building. The 6,000-

and attractive atmosphere in which to which tends to give the space a dark square-metre school is largely fitted with
ProjeCt
live and work. The Beekdal Lyceum has a appearance. The use of colourful ceiling Rockfon ceiling panels in various colours. Beekdal Lyceum
special character thanks to its elite sport panels avoids this and creates a unique Naturally, many of them are white, while

and dance training. The founders wanted and pleasant atmosphere within the the use of playful colours contributes to
loCation
Arnhem, Netherlands
to have this expressed in the appearance school. Interior architect Ruud Jan Kokke the unique atmosphere that characterises

of the school. made use of reflective effects between Beekdal Lyceum. >> arChiteCt
A.P.M. van den Bosch,
Nuland

interior arChiteCt
Kokke Designer,
Oosterbeek

ProduCt
Polar
Polar Colour
Ligna (Light Beech)
Krios
Olympia

13

Of course, the school is not just concerned The Beekdal Lyceum won the School Prize

about displaying a positive appearance. It 2007 for the overall design of the building.

is essential that requirements such as fire According to the jury, the furnishings,

safety, acoustics and hygiene are ideally architecture and coloured surfaces used in

combined in the ceiling panels. As in every the ceiling produced a refreshing and light

public building, the rules for fire safety in effect that resulted in this special prize

schools have increased in recent years. being awarded to the school. <<

Rockfon ceilings offer fire resistance of 60

minutes which gives everyone inside time

to evacuate the building safely.

14

!
The Beekdal Lyceum has a relatively low-hanging
ceiling which tends to give the space a dark
appearance. The use of colourful ceiling panels
avoids this and creates a unique and pleasant
atmosphere within the school.

17

!
The Beekdal Lyceum won the School Prize 2007
for the overall design of the building. According
to the jury, the furnishings, architecture and
coloured surfaces used in the ceiling produced a
refreshing and light effect that resulted in this
special prize being awarded to the school.

18

03:
For architect Stéphane Beel, the age of With its plain, sober appearance, the white ‘problem’ by proposing Mono Acoustic –

“depressing palaces of justice as they used Mono Acoustic ceiling forms a balanced a seamless acoustic ceiling.

to be built” was over when he designed whole. Rockfon ceilings are well known

the court building for Kortrijk and Ghent. and provide the reassurance that acoustics The Mono Acoustic system comprises

In this 21st century, in which justice wants are perfectly regulated and combined with a suspended system to which Rockfon

to stand out more, a court building must a high level of fire safety. The latter is an ceiling panels are secured using screw

be open and accessible. The new court absolute requirement of the fire service, plates. The joints are concealed with a

building along Opgeeïstenlaan in Ghent which has to be able to get into the filler and then sanded. Once the ceiling
ProjeCt
can be gazed at in wonder: a transparent building in the event of a fire and therefore is completely smooth, it is finished with a Court of Justice
building without excessive frills with a insists that the ceiling comply with a fire spray plaster which creates the seamless

clear and functional layout; the same resistance rating of at least 30 minutes. appearance. <<
loCation
Ghent, Belgium
applies to the ceiling. Thanks to the high

level of fire safety and good acoustic The architect was apparently against the arChiteCt
performance of Mono Acoustic, the court use of a modular ceiling because of the
Stéphane Beel,
Ghent
building offers everyone who enters it unavoidable profiles and joints between

safe and comfortable surroundings. the panels. However, Rockfon solved this ProduCt
Mono® Acoustic

21

!
In this 21st century, in which justice wants to
stand out more, a court building must also be
open and accessible. The layout is clear and
functional; the same applies to the ceiling.

22

!
The Mono Acoustic system comprises a suspended
system to which Rockfon ceiling panels are secured
using screw plates. The joints are concealed
with a filler and then sanded. Once the ceiling
is completely smooth, it is finished with a spray
plaster which creates the seamless appearance.

25

!
The architect was apparently against the use of
a modular ceiling because of the unavoidable
profiles and joints between the panels. However,
Rockfon solved this ‘problem’ by proposing
Mono Acoustic – a seamless acoustic ceiling.

26

04:
The Fiberline building looks more like KHR Architects and the Fiberline There are no external parking lots with

a piece of landscape art than a Danish building were also nominated for the cars anywhere. The whole building is a

composite factory, but that’s what it is. European Union Prize for Contemporary continuation of the landscape, and the

The Fiberline Composite factory is located Architecture, also called Mies van der high back of the building completely

near the town of Middelfart close to Rohe Prize, in 2007. The prize is given follows the landscape.

one of Denmark’s main motorways. This to acknowledge and reward quality

spectacular and unusual building recently architectural production in Europe. With a total of 20,000 square metres,

won the European Steel Design Award Fiberline is Denmark’s largest workspace.
ProjeCt
2007 for its groundbreaking design. The The building is a very precise form laid in At the heart of the building is Fiberline’s Fiberline
building rises sculpturally out of the Danish the landscape that contains everything open-plan workspace which is 100 metres

landscape and is in fact a 330-metre- belonging to the Fiberline universe – wide by 200 metres long. This is the
loCation
Middelfart, Denmark
long hill that brings together production, the factory itself, the parking places, composite factory itself, and up above and

product development, administration and the loading and unloading bays, the all around the production facilities are the Client
logistics all in one unbroken open space. warehouse, the offices and administration long galleries of office space with people
Fiberline Composites

– everything is placed in this one building. working. Rockfon ceilings were used here
arChiteCt
to give the office space exactly the right KHR Arkitekter
amount of reverberation. >> Copenhagen, Denmark

ProduCt
Fusion®
Mono® Acoustic

29

“
“So I thought, ‘could I take a knife and cut three
large flaps in the landscape, and then lift them up
and put light into them?’ And that’s exactly what
we did.”
It is definitely landscape art. No doubt about that.
The Fiberline building is so distinctive and unusual
that it’s already won several prizes, not least the
European Steel Design Award 2007.

31

A starship that just landed from outer how functionality, aesthetics and values can one sails up the fjords. As far as Fiberline

space? Or a lost movie set from Star Wars? be brought together in a higher unity.” is concerned, I was very inspired by the old

That’s what comes to mind the first time Viking fortresses with their circular walls

one sees this astonishing piece of land-art. The Fiberline building was also nominated such as Trelleborg outside Slagelse and

Of course, it’s not a spaceship – but a Danish for the prestigious European Union Prize Aggersborg by Limfjorden. Both fortresses

composite factory situated right next to for Contemporary Architecture, also called were built around 980 AD.

one of Denmark’s busiest motorways Mies van der Rohe Prize, in 2007. The prize

just outside the town of Middelfart. is given to acknowledge and reward quality So when it came to Fiberline, I asked

architectural production in Europe. myself, ‘is it possible to place a factory

Even though it’s not a spaceship, it is and a workplace in the landscape? Could

definitely landscape art. No doubt about Rockfon spoke to Jan Søndergaard, we do that?’ So I thought, ‘could I take

that. The Fiberline building is so distinctive the man behind this amazing piece of a knife and cut three large flaps in the

and unusual that it’s already won several landscape art. landscape, and then lift them up and put

prizes, not least the European Steel Design light into them?’ And that’s exactly what
as a surfaCe, Award 2007. Søndergaard says he is very inspired by we did. It’s a big and very precise form

landscapes and wants to let his buildings we’ve laid in the landscape which actually
Ceilings bring The jury awarded the Danish architect become a part of the landscape. “I’m contains everything that belongs to the

and Copenhagen University professor Jan very inspired by the Scandinavian universe Fiberline universe. The factory itself, the

everything Søndergaard and his architect firm KHR which is bound by the generations and our parking places, the loading and unloading

the European Steel Design Award 2007 relationship to the land and the landscape. landings, the warehouse – everything

together. for the Fiberline building because of its And by the light, and the special way the is placed in the design itself. It’s all one

groundbreaking design and the way in air moves between the mountains when form that contains everything and holds

which the building rises so magnificently

out of the Danish landscape. And for

the way he created a 330-metre-long hill
— Jan søndergaard, that brings together production, product

development, administration and logistics
arChiteCt all in one unbroken open space. The jury

wrote: “Fiberline is an exceptional example

of the potential of steel to create slim, light

constructions that are at the same time very

competitive. The Fiberline building shows

32

everything. There are no external parking With a total of 20,000 square metres,

lots with cars anywhere… so it is like a Fiberline is Denmark’s largest workspace.

spaceship. You drive in, and everything’s “It’s a question of creating ‘identities’,”

in it. The whole building is a continuation says Søndergaard who started his career

of the landscape, and the high back of the working for B&O. “I believe that when we

building completely follows the landscape. are working with putting rooms together,

there arises a joint understanding of

So the building is like three large cuts, and in one’s identity as a company. The building

here are the production facilities which are influences the way people feel about their

like a spinning mill. Since Fiberline makes workplace.” Fiberline’s open workspace is

composites – which are artificial materials 100 metres wide by 200 metres long – and

made from combining raw materials – their the whole building is 300 metres long.

products are hanging from the ceilings like

threads. And then around all this, there are “Visually, it’s as if the meeting rooms are

people sitting and working on the third hanging outside the building, but they are

level overlooking the production facilities. a part of the building,” says Søndergaard.

So it’s all one big open room with the “And the stairways are all open – so

offices, labs, administration, and everything when you go upstairs, it’s as if you are

else overlooking the production facilities. swinging in the air. The people down on

Everyone can see everything, but no one is the production floor really enjoy having

bothered by any noise.” people upstairs and around them, because

35

all they see are silhouettes working above have sprinklers in the big windows to indoor climate is important – and this is a controlling effect. In other words, they

and around them.” meet fire regulations. And these windows where we used Rockfon ceilings. should bring together everything we’re

also help the soundproofing in the big doing. You should be able to read from

According to Søndergaard, acoustics production room. But in the long galleries The people who are actually sitting in the ceiling that a building is clarified and

weren’t the biggest problem in creating where people are sitting upstairs, we had this space are really satisfied with the well thought through. And that everything

such a large workspace, but fire safety to find the right balance when it comes to result because the space has exactly the is integrated by means of the ceilings.

regulations were because you simply aren’t sound. You don’t want to make a room amount of reverberation they wanted.

allowed to make such big rooms without that is completely ‘dead’ in terms of sound But the ceilings really get to work hard We also used Mono Acoustic in the

guaranteeing them. “So at Fiberline, we because then it’s not inspiring to work in. in this building – and they are up to the meeting rooms, and here we decided to

had to make some divisions, and we also People are inspired by each other, so the challenge. And the result is a space that’s experiment – and use Rockfon’s Mono

very comfortable to sit in and which Acoustic on the walls because we wanted

provides the inspiration that comes from the rendered and plastered surface as a

sitting with other people.” contrast to the rest of the surfaces.

Originally Søndergaard was against We’ve been happy to use Rockfon system

lowered ceilings, and in his previous ceilings at Fiberline because they clearly

works such as the much acclaimed Pihl support the whole idea that Fiberline’s

headquarters in Copenhagen, everything products are composites made of different

was visible, even the sprinkler systems. products. So we wanted to tell that story

And in the big workspace at Fiberline, it’s – and we’re very happy with the ceilings

the same. But Søndergaard used Rockfon because everything is built into the ceilings

Fusion ceilings in the offices because he (ventilation, lights etc.). And we’ve tried to

wanted a completely-controlled look in the break or penetrate the ceilings as little as

“
office space. “And it really is a beautiful possible. The only things you can actually

look. We put lights, electrical installations see are the fire detectors (they were the
Søndergaard used Rockfon Fusion ceilings in the and the tracks all into the Rockfon Fusion only things we couldn’t hide). Everything
offices because he wanted a completely-controlled system, and the result is really beautiful. else is hidden. We selected Rockfon
look in the office space. It’s a very good solution to use Rockfon ceilings mostly because of appearance, not
“We put lights, electrical installations and the system ceilings because it gives a freedom so much because of fire safety, because
tracks all into the Rockfon Fusion system, and the in terms of managing the technical we think it’s a beautiful product.” <<
result is really beautiful.” installation while creating ceilings that

aesthetically are beautiful to look at. The

ideal ceilings should appear as if they have

36

“
“The people who are actually sitting in this space
are really satisfied with the result because the
space has exactly the amount of reverberation they
wanted. But the ceilings really get to work hard in
this building – and they are up to the challenge.
And the result is a space that’s very comfortable to
sit in and which provides the inspiration that comes
from sitting with other people.”

38

05:
Gateway Academy in Thurrock has now 24 Grid. Adrian Warne, Partner at LGH, Koral is a white, micro-textured tile that

been completed with an impressive final noted: “All areas within the school have delivers extremely well in a number of

construction value of £24 million. Over different requirements, and many with performance areas and ensures a high level

15,000 square metres of Rockfon ceiling gentle curves. The project has Rockfon of sound absorption. It was specified for this

tiles were specified for use throughout suspended ceilings throughout as these project due to its acoustic properties and in

the entire school. The state-of-the-art fitted the bill perfectly with a range that a tegular format for aesthetic reasons.

‘doughnut’ shaped building has been fulfilled the various design parameters.

developed for the forthcoming merger The ability to have a one-stop shop was For enhanced room-to-room insulation,
ProjeCt
of two under-capacity secondary schools really beneficial and cost efficient.” Sonar Silence with its specially-applied Gateway Academy
within the town, becoming host to backing material was installed, while its

1,800 students. The Sonar tile is ideally suited for use in white and slightly-textured surface helped
loCation
Thurrock, United Kingdom
classrooms due to its compliance with to create a truly elegant ceiling expression.
Lianne Toothill of Lyster, Grillet & Harding sound absorption requirement AD.E.E3. arChiteCt
Architects, who have specified Rockfon It is available in various module sizes With all schools there are areas such as
Lyster, Grillett & Harding

in the past, comments on the project: and edge details to suit differing design kitchens and food technology rooms that
ProduCt
“Rockfon were specified as they were the options and installation needs. require a high level of cleanliness. The Koral
only ceiling tile on the market that had Hygienic tile was specified because it fully Sonar®
Polar Colour
100% humidity resistance. They were Polar Colour tiles can make a dramatic complies with the most stringent demands Sonar® Silence
unmatched in terms of their fire resistance difference to the impression of any room for hygiene and ease of cleaning. They are Hygienic

properties and after using them in the past due to the variety of colours available. For durable and covered in a white surface
we had no hesitation in using them again.” this specific project, Night Blue was chosen, paint incorporating fungicide to enhance

as Lianne explains: “The Polar Colour tile resistance to any micro-organisms that may

Six Rockfon products were specified for was chosen because of the colour range as develop in environments such as this. >>

this project: Koral, Sonar, Polar Colour, it was necessary to provide Drama rooms

Sonar Silence, Hygienic and Rocklink with the option of a blackout.”

41

Stunningly different and ground-breakingly partner at LGH, who combined his interest the principle blocks are closely-linked and

contemporary, the appearance of the in the environment with his skill in spatial enclose a large attractive landscaped court.

Gateway Academy in Thurrock truly defies design to develop a blueprint for the new The school is very high-profile and highly-

convention and challenges the traditional school that would fit in with the stringent visible in a flat marshland site, and we had

design of educational establishments requirements of the local environment and to deal with this content in the design and

everywhere. The Academy is a unique £24- the needs of the local communities. The appearance of where it sits between the

million development arranged in the shape unification of the structure had to reflect communities it serves. We have provided

of a doughnut and viewed as a massive functionality, practicality and contextual a building that significantly improves the

G-shaped structure from above. The impression – both externally and internally education provision for pupils, teachers and

design was the brainchild of Lyster, Grillet – as Adrian explains: “The arrangement of the local community. The central courtyard

and Harding Architects, a medium-sized

practice that specialises in innovative and

contemporary design for the education

sector, with 95% of the work undertaken
i truly believe concentrated on this market.

that design The design pushes the boundaries of

academic representation, and the design

Can transform team faced many challenges. The new super

academy is the merger of two separate

the quality of schools, one in Grays and one in Tilbury,

both of which were performing under

learning. capacity. The architects were approached

in 2002 by Thurrock Council to undertake

a feasibility study for a new secondary

school which would eventually house 1,800

students. The gauntlet was accepted by the
— adrian Warne, architects whose creativity was only limited

by the boundaries of their imagination.
arChiteCt
The result: A design evolved from the

experiences and vision of Adrian Warne,

44

“
has provided secure, usable outside space, architects, in particular Richard Rogers,

and the variety of teaching spaces located Charles Renee Macintosh and Frank Lloyd “I truly believe that design can transform the

around the court for various academic Wright. His first significant project was quality of learning, and utilising every available

disciplines work very well. So too, does the the design of the Percy Rugg Design and space – including the roof area – can be

internal street design, linking to the core Technology Centre at the Leys School, hugely beneficial in terms of visual appeal and

block which incorporates a wide range of Cambridge in 1986, which won an RIBA practicality. And this is what we have achieved

communal facilities including café, library, regional Award. This has been followed at the Gateway Academy.”

hall and gym.” by many projects in schools, colleges

and academies in and surrounding

It is this continuity and flow that transfers to the county of Cambridgeshire. But the

the interior, and the innovative and clever Gateway Academy in Thurrock is his most

use of the ceiling space is a noticeable imaginative to date.

and creative feature of the building.

“The school has been designed with a “The project has Rockfon suspended

lot of non-rectangular rooms, many with ceilings throughout, as these fitted the

gently curving ceilings,” continues Adrian, bill perfectly, with a range that fulfilled

whose work has been inspired by some of the various design parameters,” continues

the most pioneering architects of modern Adrian. “I truly believe that design can

times. Adrian saw the aesthetic benefits transform the quality of learning, and

of using the ceiling space as a visible and utilising every available space – including

eye-catching feature of the overall design the roof area – can be hugely beneficial

– and by using specialist Rockfon ceiling in terms of visual appeal and practicality.

products, other considerations such as And this is what we have achieved at the

fire, acoustic and noise control could be Gateway Academy.”

easily accommodated.

Six Rockfon products were specified –

Adrian’s inspiration comes from a very Koral, Sonar, Polar, Sonar Silence, Hygienic

well respected source, having trained at and Rocklink 24 Grid. The Sonar tile is

Leicester School of Architecture under ideally suited for use in classrooms due to

Ted Cullinan, a significant architect of the its compliance with the sound absorption

time. Throughout his career he has been requirement AD.E.E3. Available in various

influenced by some of the most farsighted module sizes and edge details to suit

47

differing design options and installation are durable and covered in a white surface

needs, Sonar is flexible and adaptable. paint incorporating fungicide to enhance

resistance to any micro-organisms that may

Colour played a major role in the develop in environments such as this.

specification of the Polar Colour tiles,

which can make a dramatic difference The response to this futuristic and

to the impression of any room due to stunningly-visual school has been

the variety of colours available. For this phenomenal and meets with Adrian’s desire

specific project, Night Blue was chosen to fulfil his clients’ needs. “Understanding

because of the colour range as it was their detailed requirements, subsequently

necessary to provide specialised areas providing what they wanted, and then

such as the drama rooms with the option adding what they didn’t realise they

of a blackout. could have is the backbone of excellent

architecture,” he comments. “We have

Koral is a white, micro-textured tile that created an exciting and vibrant forum for

performs extremely well in a number learning – the architectural design of the

of key areas and ensures a high level of academy is original, the materials used

sound absorption. Its acoustic properties combine high performance with aesthetics

and tegular format were perfect for the and the school stands as a beacon in the

application for aesthetic reasons. For local area.” <<

enhanced room-to-room insulation, Sonar

Silence with its specially-applied backing

material was installed, while its white

!
slightly-textured surface helped to create

a truly elegant ceiling expression.
Colour played a major role in the specification of
the Polar Colour tiles, which can make a dramatic The Hygienic tile was specified because
difference to the impression of any room due to it fully complies with the most stringent
the variety of colours available. demands for hygiene and ease of cleaning.

For the new school, this was very important

as the kitchens and food technology rooms

required the highest levels of cleanliness. They

49

“
“The project has Rockfon suspended ceilings
throughout, as these fitted the bill perfectly,
with a range that fulfilled the various design
parameters.”

50

06:
GeoCenter Møns Klint is a Danish The unusual thing about the centre is that Choice of materials for the building was

geological and nature centre located the architects decided to put most of the also based on the natural environment.

on the picturesque cliffs of Møn in building underground. Out of respect for Everything is white, like the cliffs: The

southeastern Denmark. Some 300,000 nature, the visible, above-ground part building is made of white concrete, the

people a year visit the exhibition centre of the centre takes up as little space as floors are white cement plaster, the indoor

which tells the story of Denmark’s possible – while the large exhibition area is walls are white rendered plasterboard and

geological history and of the flora and totally underground. This also harmonizes the ceilings in the hall and restaurant are

fauna of this beautifully-preserved natural well with the centre’s purpose, which is to white Mono Acoustic spray-rendered
ProjeCt
area. The centre is located close to the tell the story of Denmark’s underground. ceilings. Underground, in the exhibition GeoCenter Møns Klint
edge of the largest cliff which is some 100 space, everything is black – especially the

metres high. Danish Queen Margrethe The actual flow of the building is very ceilings which are Rockfon’s Industrial
loCation
Møns Klint, Denmark
inaugurated the nature centre in 2007. simple: Guests enter and go underground Ceiling Panel Black, chosen because of its

to see the exhibition, then come up to excellent sound absorption qualities. >> Client
The World Architecture Festival considers the hall where there’s a restaurant and
Fonden GeoCenter
Møns Klint
GeoCenter Møns Klint one of the beautiful terrace that is very close to the

most beautiful buildings in the world actual cliff. arChiteCt
and shortlisted the centre in its Nature PLH arkitekter as,
Copenhagen, Denmark
category at the World Architecture Festival

in Barcelona in October 2008. The centre ProduCt
was designed by the Danish architect firm Mono® Acoustic
Industrial Ceiling Panel Black
PLH Architects of Copenhagen.

53

“
“We chose Mono Acoustic for the hall and the
restaurant because we didn’t want to have any
directional lines in the ceilings since the building
itself is curved. Traditional lowered ceilings have
joints, but we didn’t want any straight lines
because they would disturb the soft curvature of
the building.”

54

GeoCenter Møns Klint is a Danish

geological and nature centre located on the

picturesque cliffs of Møn in southeastern

Denmark. The exhibition centre offers a

stunning glimpse of Denmark’s geological

history as well as the flora and fauna of

this beautifully-preserved natural area.

The centre is located close to the edge of

the largest cliff which is some 100 metres

high. Queen Margrethe inaugurated the

nature centre in 2007. Roughly 300,000

people visit the centre each year.

The World Architecture Festival considers
sometimes GeoCenter Møns Klint one of the most

beautiful buildings in the world. As a
things Just arise result, GeoCenter Møns Klint was one of

the nine shortlisted entries in the Nature

naturally – and category at the World Architecture Festival

in Barcelona in October 2008. There were

that’s usually 700 entries from some 63 countries.

When it beComes The centre was designed by the

!
Danish architect firm PLH Architects of

Copenhagen. Rockfon talked to Søren
really interesting! Mølbak, one of the partners, about this The World Architecture Festival considers
stunning and unusual natural museum. GeoCenter Møns Klint one of the most beautiful
buildings in the world. As a result, GeoCenter
“We started working on the centre in Møns Klint was one of the nine shortlisted entries
— søren mølbak, 2002 when PLH won an open international in the Nature category at the World Architecture
architect competition with 300 entries for Festival in Barcelona in October 2008. There were

arChitekt the project. But it’s taken a long time to 700 entries from some 63 countries.

56

build because it took a while to raise money we thought, let’s put the whole exhibition Respect for nature has been a main just arise naturally – and that’s usually

for the centre. Previously this very special area underground – and that’s how the concern all the way through when when it becomes really interesting! And

natural area was privately owned, but idea was born.” building the centre. “We also wanted the result is really beautiful. People now

more than 20 years ago, the Danish state to protect the trees on the other side of call the visible part of the building the

took over the property but didn’t improve Mølbak believes PLH Architects won the the building, which actually is how the ‘wing’ and the wing has become the

the facilities. Then a group of local people competition for the project because of their beautiful curvature of the building arose. centre’s icon.”

who were dissatisfied with the situation, underground concept combined with the We simply wanted to keep those beautiful

decided to create a foundation called ‘wing-shaped roof’ icon. “Today the centre larch trees which meant we couldn’t build Choice of materials was also based around

‘GeoCenter Møns Klint’ to raise money is built so that the whole exhibition centre in a straight line, so the building is curved the natural environment. “Because the

for a centre which focused on the birth is underneath the natural hill that was because of the trees! Sometimes things cliffs are white and we wanted to follow

of Denmark – from a geological point of there to begin with. The building is situated

view. So when we started work on the almost all the way out to the edge of the

project, there were a lot of rundown huge cliff. The only part of the building

buildings scattered around the property that is above ground is the hall and the

and one very fine building which was a restaurant. The other thing we did to keep

hotel. We tore everything down except the above-ground part of the building as

the hotel building which we restored. small as possible was to restore the old hotel

so we could put the school service and the

The brief for the GeoCenter was that the administration over there. In this way, the

exhibition facility was going to need a lot new building required less space.

of space. We thought that this amount of

building space was simply too large for this The actual flow inside the building is very

beautiful and very sensitive natural area. simple. You go underground to see the

“
So out of respect for the nature, we came exhibition and come up to the hall. And

up with the idea that the visible part of upstairs (the above-ground part) there’s a

the centre should be as small as possible. restaurant with a big terrace that is very “The ceiling is completely flat and looks like a
And the only way we could do this was close to the actual cliff. We had to take traditional flat ceiling. For me, these ceilings
to put most of the building underground. care when we dug out the site because it’s work as an architectural expression because they
This seemed to be a good idea since the so close to the edge of the cliff. The cliffs are so modern, completely without lines and
aim of the exhibition is to tell the story are slowly crumbling and receding, and completely free of any technical disturbances.”
of Denmark’s birth by exploring and experts say that in 300 years this whole

explaining Denmark’s underground. So place will fall into the sea.”

58

nature, our choice of materials and colors special effect lighting was going to be

is based on the natural environment. But used in the darkened rooms. Also the

we didn’t want to paint the walls white, so rooms required a lot of sound absorption

the building is made of white concrete, the because the whole exhibition is interactive

floors are white cement plaster, the indoor with people touching and moving things

walls are white rendered plasterboard, – and there are a lot of sound effects.

and the ceilings are white Mono Acoustic The exhibition, which is very popular with

spray-rendered ceilings. kids, is comprised of cave-like exhibition

booths that are laid out like the spine

We chose Mono Acoustic for the hall and of a dinosaur. These cave-like booths

the restaurant because we didn’t want to are quite big (6 metres high by 7-8

have any directional lines in the ceilings metres long), and inside each there are

since the building itself is curved. Traditional exhibitions with different artists showing

lowered ceilings have joints, but we didn’t their interpretation of various aspects of

want any straight lines because they would Denmark’s underground. The exhibition

disturb the soft curvature of the building. itself is called Denmark’s Birth so visitors

So that’s why we chose Mono Acoustic. actually walk through Denmark’s birth

We also placed all the ceiling light fixtures from prehistoric times to today by going

in random order (instead of in rows) so through the different geological levels of

the lights are like the stars in the sky, and Denmark. And the children can actually

their random placement does not disturb see in the microscopes that the cliffs are

the curves. The ceiling is completely flat really made of fossils. Last year, a little boy

and looks like a traditional flat ceiling. For found a real dinosaur’s tooth – and experts

me, these ceilings work as an architectural believe that one day they will perhaps find

expression because they are so modern, a whole monster!” <<

completely without lines and completely

free of any technical disturbances.”

Underground in the exhibition hall,

the ceilings are black like everything

else. “Here we used Rockfon’s

Industrial Ceiling Panel Black because

60

07:
The shining Havezate was opened at the Hof van Saksen offers such rare luxury but concept of each was an important point

Hof van Saksen holiday resort on June 22, in an entirely contemporary fashion. The of departure for the overall layout. Each of

2007. Architect Cor Kalfsbeek collaborated starting point was not only to completely them has its own look and feel.

with the interior furnishings of top- design all the rooms, but also to give them

designer Piet Boon to offer guests of the a bit of character. The Rockfon ceilings had to blend in

Havezate absolute luxury and quality. The with all concepts and contribute to the

magnificent gardens that surround the A substantial proportion of the total atmosphere interior architect Piet Boon

central building were specially designed space comprises a large indoor swimming had in mind. Rockfon Sonar is used
ProjeCt
by Piet Oudolf. pool, sauna, fitness facility and spa in throughout, both in the wet areas and Hof van Saksen
the wellness centre. The building also in the restaurants. Standard white Sonar

Only well-to-do ‘gentlemen farmers’ in accommodates four restaurants. There is panels were supplied, as well as specially-
loCation
Nooitgedacht,
Drenthe used to be able to afford the luxury an exclusive à la carte restaurant, a Grand coloured Polar Colour ceiling panels, and Assen, Netherlands
of a havezate, a large country house. The Café, an Italian restaurant and a self- installed in a concealed-grid system. <<

modern 10,000-square-metre Havezate at service restaurant. Here as well, the total
arChiteCt
Cor Kalfsbeek,
Paterswolde

interior arChiteCt
Piet Boon,
Oostzaan

ProduCt
Sonar®
Polar Colour

63

!
The quality of the ceiling details and perimiter
trim had to match the overall high level of the
interior design.

65

!
A substantial proportion of the total space
comprises a large indoor swimming pool, sauna,
fitness facility and spa in the wellness centre. The
relatively high humidity level in these areas made
Rockfon Sonar’s high resistance to moisture a key
element while maintaining the high design level.

68

!
The use of Polar Colour in black contributes to
the cozy cave-like atmosphere.

72

08:
In 2005, Le Monde headquarters a strong personality. De Portzamparc (1500 x 600 mm) were installed mainly in

moved to a fully-refurbished building was involved in all aspects – technical, the corridor and office spaces. Rockfon

inspired by famous French architect and functional and aesthetics. products were chosen for their acoustic

urbanist Christian de Portzamparc. He properties as well as the combination of

metamorphosed a neutral ‘70s building Over 12,000 square metres of Sonar special dimensions and edges. <<

into a contemporary office building with with a combination of E15 and D edges

ProjeCt
Le Monde

loCation
Paris, France

arChiteCt
Christian de Portzamparc
Paris, France

ProduCt
Sonar® E15/D

75

!
Rockfon products were chosen for their acoustic
properties as well as their combination of special
dimensions and edges.

78

09:
Located in the heart of Paris (75), the style building with the help of Patriarche & The Mono Acoustic monolithic ceiling

3,000-square-metre Mobalpa showroom Co architects. Converted by the Mobalpa was the perfect choice for the project

has 3 levels dedicated to kitchen, bathroom design office in collaboration with the due to its combination of aestheticism

and storage solutions. TBWA agency, this showroom presents and unique acoustic performance. 1,300

the brand’s complete range of products square metres of Mono Acoustic were

These ultra-contemporary premises have in an innovative and dynamic way with installed as islands to accentuate the

been created from a purely Haussman- appealing spaces and digital signs. elegance of the premises. >>

ProjeCt
Mobalpa Showroom

loCation
Paris, France

Customer
Mobalpa (Fournier Habitat)

arChiteCt
Patriarche & Co
(Le Bourget du Lac, France)

interior arChiteCt
Mobalpa design office
and TBWA

ProduCt
Mono® Acoustic

81

!
Starting with a traditional Haussman building,
the architect firm Patriarche & Co turned the site
into a very contemporary environment.

83

Jean-Loup Patriarche, a pupil of Paul Virilio led us to choose a ‘cloud’ ceiling rather due to the context we were working in –

at the Ecole Spéciale d’Architecture in Paris, than one covering the entire surface area. respect of the original idea and respect of

started his career working for a variety of Of course, the aesthetics and intrinsic Mobalpa’s concepts.” <<

firms before returning to Savoie in 1980. qualities of Rockfon Mono Acoustic

After the death of his father, Bernard, he helped us arrive at this choice, too.”

developed the firm of Patriarche & Co

structuring it on a British model strongly When designing and implementing any

inspired by the architecture of Frank Lloyd given project, Patriarche & Co rely on two

Wright. He participates in all projects and fundamental principles – humility and

coordinates the work of the team. He is sincerity. Jean-Loup explains: “Humility

the force behind the architectural style of means listening to needs, paying attention

the firm. to the site and the context while respecting

the technical and budgetary framework.

Jean-Loup doesn’t play favourites. He finds Being sincere guarantees a pertinent and
the aesthetiCs and that all projects, be they large or small, long-term solution that goes beyond

have a rewarding and interesting aspect trends, capable of arousing emotion.”
intrinsiC qualities that encourages overall creativity. “All

the projects we handle have contributed These design principles and philosophical

of roCkfon mono in varying degrees to the technical and ideals are obvious in the Mobalpa

cultural development of the firm. The showroom project. “Exactly,” agrees

aCoustiC helped us diversity of projects handled is a source Jean-Loup, “especially in this instance

of ideas and contributes to the quality of

arrive at this ChoiCe. each individual project.”

For Mobalpa’s Paris showroom, acoustic

and other technical considerations (edges,

dimensions, monolithic, flexibility, etc.)
— Jean-loup played a large part in Patriarche & Co

choosing Mono Acoustic as the ceiling for
patriarChe, the project. “It was primarily the obvious

confusion of existing technical installations

arChitekt breaking through a suspended ceiling that

84

!
The selection of Mono Acoustic, Rockfon’s
monolithic acoustic ceiling, perfectly integrated
in the project thanks to its high aesthetics and
unique acoustic performance.

87

!
Over 1,300 square metres of Mono Acoustic
were installed in island configurations, further
enhancing the elegance of the place.

88

10:
On January 18, 2007, Queen Beatrix of utmost attention given the function of sanded. Once the surface is completely

the Netherlands opened the new wing the building and the often hard materials smooth, it is finished with a spray plaster

of the Peace Palace – a multifunctional used – not to mention aesthetics. The which creates a seamless ceiling.

7,000-square-metre complex with library, building’s multi-purpose hall demanded a

reading room, auditorium and office ceiling capable of high sound absorption Special colour requirements were also a

spaces reserved for the International Court (αw of between 0.80-0.90). It also had consideration on this project. The ceiling

and the Permanent Court of Arbitrage. to be seamless, constructed from a stable in the multi-purpose hall was given four

The new wing is comprised of geometric material and allow the possibility of using different colours. In terms of colour, the
ProjeCt
shapes – rectangles, triangles and ellipses colour. The choice was conclusively a grey surfaces on the ground floor elegantly Peace Palace
– combining modern materials with a Rockfon Mono Acoustic ceiling. abut the metal with which the reading

respect for history. room is trimmed. The red colour of the
loCation
The Hague, Netherlands
In some places, the ceiling would ceiling exactly matches the red countries

The increasing number of books and abut metal, glass and plaster covings. artwork that decorates one of the arChiteCt
participants in international conferences Architectural adaptations had to be walls. Then there is a yellow ceiling that
Wilford Schupp Architecten,
Stuttgart, Germany
meant that the old building had grown undertaken, and there was an extensive transitioned to an external ceiling through

beyond capacity. A large part of the new lighting plan that had to be taken into the glazed frontage without a change in bd architectuur,
Leiden
building is dedicated to a library and reading consideration. colour. The same was done with a violet

room, while the basement offers about 22 ceiling which projects outside through the interior arChiteCt
running kilometres of shelf space. The Mono Acoustic system comprises a façade like a slice of cake. >> bd architectuur, Leiden
suspended system to which Rockfon ceiling

One of the things that had to be considered panels are secured using screw plates. The
ProduCt
Mono® Acoustic
was, of course, the acoustics. This required joins are concealed with a filler and then

91

!
Special colour requirements were also a
consideration on this project. The ceiling in the
multi-purpose hall was given four different colours.

93

“It was only logical that we should be building that should remain recognisably Because you have to remember: as soon

involved in building the new wing of the so. And that’s the way it’s turned out. as a new building is delivered, it gets

Peace Palace. We’ve been involved with the Now, when you approach the palace, you photographed from all sides – when it’s

building since 1975, restoring numerous see the old part in its full glory with the looking great. But how will it look in ten

aspects, and we are still coordinating the new wing on the side. years’ time? We already take that into

maintenance work. We’ve formulated the account in the design: the buildings we

requirements for the new building on the When you’re working on a new building, construct only get more attractive with

basis of that background. you sometimes notice that local residents the years!” <<

are not happy about it. Initially, they don’t

In our view, a building is primarily something think much of it; they have no affinity

to be used that has to last a long time. If with it. But that’s logical; a building only

the users can’t live or work optimally in becomes imbedded in a community

it, then it’s inadequate. Durability is a key when it’s been there for some time. It

word in our work. Which is why we’re no needs time to develop a relationship
the buildings trendsetters in the use of new materials; in with its surroundings. So you have to get

our buildings you will chiefly see materials over the initial period after construction
We ConstruCt that have proved their worth. That gives a before the building has become part of

distinctive look and appearance, one that its surroundings. You do that by designing

only get more can stand the test of time. buildings with human dimensions, which

fit into their environment and age well.

attraCtive With The challenge here was to build a new wing

for the Peace Palace that is individual but

the years! harmonises with the historic building, the

garden and the rest of the surroundings.

As a designer you can then coordinate

with the existing building or, alternatively,

seek a contrast. The initial idea was to
— bas van hille, include part of an earlier extension of the

Peace Palace into the new building. We
arChiteCt have abandoned that idea, however, and

opted for a new construction. We felt that

the Peace Palace is an icon, a dominant

94

!
The red colour of the ceiling exactly matches
the red countries artwork that decorates one
of the walls. Then there is a yellow ceiling that
transitioned to an external ceiling through the
glazed frontage without a change in colour. The
same was done with a violet ceiling which projects
outside through the façade like a slice of cake.

97

11:
Postkantoren BV Nederland was looking precisely delivers the end result to the The resulting ceiling with the route map

for a way to process illustrations into printer which Postkantoren BV then illustration forms part of the new corporate

ceilings. Following a visit to a previously- approves. In this case, special conditions style of Postkantoren BV. This style will

installed printed ceiling, their response were imposed on the installation be applied to future renovations and

was clear: “We also want this type of direction and various edge finishes of alterations which could potentially affect

Rockfon ceiling!” The starting point was a the Sonar D panels used. This demanded 200 ceilings. The fact that Postkantoren

suspended ceiling island with a route map lots of discussion about the placement of BV was so satisfied was confirmed by an

printed on it. the main supports and the print direction order for a similar ceiling for their office in
ProjeCt
of the panels. All panels were ultimately Papendrecht, Netherlands. << Post Office
Designing and executing this type of numbered and had to be mounted in one

panel ceiling is no easy task. First of particular way. Otherwise, the route map
loCation
Apeldoorn, Netherlands
all, a graphic file has to be created that would not be illustrated properly.

Client
Postkantoren BV Nederland

arChiteCt
Renovation project

ProduCt
Sonar®
(in a special customized
printed version)

101

!
A graphic file has to be created that precisely
delivers the end result to the printer which
Postkantoren BV then approves. In this case,
special conditions were imposed on the
installation direction and various edge finishes
of the Sonar D panels used.

102

!
The starting point was a suspended ceiling island
with a route map printed on it.

104

12:
The Swedish Environmental Protection Upon entering the building, there is employees work in open-plan offices.

Agency (EPA) was created in 1967 and a sense of activity. One is met by the One is struck by the very quiet and calm

is the national agency for environmental agency’s vision which is written upon the atmosphere of these open areas. Natural

protection and nature conservation. The wall: A good environment for people and materials were used for all the surfaces

organisation’s key tasks are to present all living creatures – now and for future people come into contact with such as the

proposals for environmental policy and generations. The ground floor welcomes doorknobs and the furniture, and each

legislation to the Swedish Government the public with a library, meeting and floor is carefully designed to meet the

and to ensure that environmental policy conference rooms – and a friendly café needs of the people working there.
ProjeCt
decisions are implemented. with a lot of activities. Swedish Environmental
Protection Agency
Open-plan office spaces make materials

The agency moved into its new The building itself is very open, and there with good sound absorption qualities
loCation
headquarters in Stockholm in August is a large atrium in the middle which a necessity throughout the building. To Stockholm, Sweden
2007. The headquarters are a combination extends through all the floors up to the meet these requirements, Rockfon Koral is

of a new building and the restoration of an sky. A beautiful hanging stairway sways used on all levels. <<
Client
Naturvårdsverket
existing one. Great care has been taken to like a sculpture in the open space.

make sure the new and old buildings work arChiteCt
well together and are well-integrated into Above the ground floor, there are three Brunnberg & Forshed
Arkitekter AB,
the surrounding cityscape. storeys with office areas. Here all 490 Stockholm

ProduCt
Koral

107

!
Above the ground floor, there are three storeys
with office areas. Here all 490 employees work in
open-plan offices. One is struck by the very quiet
and calm atmosphere of these open areas.

109

!
Open-plan office spaces make materials with
good sound absorption qualities a necessity
throughout the building. To meet these
requirements, Rockfon Koral is used on all levels.

111

!
Natural materials were used for all the surfaces
people come into contact with such as the
doorknobs and the furniture, and each floor
is carefully designed to meet the needs of the
people working there.

112

Best of Building Interiors Worldwide - A guide by Rockfon- email-sales@mssindia.in

Best of Building Interiors Worldwide - A guide by Rockfon- email-sales@mssindia.in

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