The Heradesign range of acoustic ceiling tiles from Knauf AMF has been installed at the new Post Office head office in Finsbury Dials, London. Heradesign ceilings in bold colours were installed in a concealed grid system in the two main entrance areas, which lead to striking ‘touchdown’ zones that wrap around the main atrium.
To create defined spaces with a sense of vitality and enclosure about them, Heradesign panels were colour matched to the floor and wall colours. The panels, which are manufactured from wood-wool for an attractive, naturally textured surface, can be specified in a wide variety of colours including pastels, solid and metallic using popular colour systems such as RAL, NCS and StoColor. They are available in a choice of fibres ranging from 1–3mm thick and in a number of sizes and edge details.
Senior Designer Mustafa Afsaroglu of architects HLW International explained what attracted him to Heradesign, commenting: “I liked the depth in texture of the panels – it added another layer to the ceiling. Acoustic control in the open area was key and Heradesign provides the necessary Class A sound absorption.”
One of the criteria for the project was to achieve SKA rating, an environmental assessment method, benchmark and standard for non-domestic fit-outs. Explaining its importance for the new HQ, Mr Afsaroglu said: “Sustainability was one of the big aspects of the process. Our aim was to achieve SKA Gold. Knauf AMF was particularly helpful in proving that the product was SKA compliant.”
The environmental credentials of Heradesign helped support the application for SKA rating as the wood-wool is sourced from sustainable forests which are FSC and PEFC certified and, when the time comes, the panels can be recycled or disposed of without any detrimental impact on the environment.
