Hunter Douglas Architectural Takes On a First in the Southern Hemisphere

As the market leader in window coverings, the Hunter Douglas Architectural range continues to be selected for world class commercial projects. Recently, it was again chosen to take part in a unique opportunity to provide an external shading solution for Hobart’s newest ferry terminal at Brooke St Pier. It is the first building in the Southern Hemisphere to be built on dry land, and then floated in the water.

Recognising that the existing pier did not meet the needs of commuters, the Australian Government commissioned a redevelopment of the pier, contributing $5 million. Ferry operators Navigators and Peppermint Bay provided an $8 million joint investment to the project.

Local Hunter Douglas Architectural product supplier, Giuseppe Mampieri of Fabriqué was commissioned to fit the building with awnings that would provide shade and glare reduction, while concealing the awnings as much as possible.

Giuseppe worked closely with the project’s builder, Fairbrother, the principal architect, the project manager and the steel engineers to deliver a product which suited the terminal’s specific requirements. He recommended the installation of the Alpha cable guide system – a product which is proven to be energy efficient and highly effective in controlling heat, light and glare. The awnings were fitted in 10mm thick steel from the inside of the building with a narrow opening for the fabric. This collaborative design meant that patrons would barely be able to notice the awnings when raised.

Fabriqué’s role in the project was delivered in an impressive time frame, as the awnings needed to be installed while the structure was still on land. “We knew straight away that the Alpha cable guide system was the ideal product for this development and we’re so proud to have had the opportunity to be part of such a significant infrastructure for the city of Hobart,” commented Giuseppe.

Martin Schmidt, the principal architect from Circa Morris Nunn Architects was extremely satisfied with the installation of Hunter Douglas Architectural products in line with the design brief.

The 300,000 people who use the facility annually will benefit from the shade provided by Hunter Douglas Architectural awnings, whilst Hobart’s waterfront precinct will benefit from the many restaurants, tourism retailers and coffee shops that plan to open on the pier.

In total, 18 awnings have been fitted which are fully motorised and connected to Somfy Motor Controllers, enabling the awnings to be operated via a remote.