CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park is a state-of-the-art Function and Broadcast Centre, designed to complement the world-renowned sports and entertainment precinct. As the latest addition to Melbourne Park’s infrastructure, the building provides a flexible and acoustically controlled environment for major events, conferences and broadcast operations. The architectural design by NH Architecture reflects a strong sense of place, celebrating Melbourne’s identity, cultural diversity and civic pride. Its elevated terraces frame panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline, reinforcing its role as both a functional venue and civic landmark.
Durra Panel was selected as the core ceiling lining material within the pleated roof structure, specified for its superior acoustic insulation, thermal performance, and fire resistance. The compressed straw panel’s solid core construction provides inherent mass and sound attenuation, making it ideal for mitigating external noise intrusion—critical for a space designed to host high-profile events and live broadcast production. Combined with Durra Steel Sections, the system formed an engineered ceiling assembly capable of delivering reliable long-term acoustic performance while contributing to the building’s sustainability objectives.
In collaboration with NH Architecture, Durra Panel was integrated into the striking folded roof geometry. Each pleat in the roof was designed to accommodate prefabricated V-shaped ceiling modules, incorporating Durra Panels, Durra Steel Sections and structural elements including integrated box gutters. To streamline installation and improve on-site safety, Ortech Industries and Professional Plumbing Contractors co-developed a custom Lifting Frame system. This allowed the fully assembled ceiling modules to be hoisted into position from ground level, significantly reducing working-at-height risks and improving construction efficiency.
The prefabrication approach not only accelerated the build timeline but also ensured a high degree of precision and quality control. The result is an acoustically tuned interior environment within a highly expressive architectural form, demonstrating the versatility of the Durra System in complex, high-performance commercial applications.
For a deeper dive into the acoustic solutions and design innovations behind the Melbourne Tennis Centre, check out our detailed By Design blog post. It highlights how Durra Panel was expertly integrated to enhance both performance and aesthetics across the precinct.
Architect: NH Architecture
Builder: Lendlease
Installer: PPC Contractors
Durra System: Roof Ceiling System
Durra Panel Finish: Natural
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