Aluminium Click-on Battens at the Embassy of Australia | Sculptform

Sculptform manufactures modular architectural solutions for walls, ceilings, and facades, collaborating with designers worldwide to bring creative visions to life. The new building for the Embassy of Australia, designed by Bates Smart in collaboration with local firm KCCT, features the use of Sculptform aluminium Click-on battens which provide a distinctive character as well as functional advantages.

The Embassy of Australia in Washington DC is a modern replacement for its predecessor built over fifty years ago. Reflecting Australian design and architectural prowess, the Embassy features an extensive glass atrium and open public space overlooking the White House. The use of Sculptform timber veneered battens from walls to ceilings evokes the Australian landscape, while also accentuating the expansiveness of the building.

For acoustic efficiency in the meeting rooms, Bates Smart developed a solution resembling blackbutt timber that fulfills Class A fire safety requirements. Collaborating with experts, the architects created an L-profile using Sculptform Click-on Battens with aluminum frames filled with acoustic lining and timber veneer. Micro perforations enhance sound absorption, with specific numbers tailored for optimal performance. Modules are assembled with direct fix clips to form the L-shaped profile, maximizing surface area for sound absorption. Battens are fixed to the atrium walls with direct fix clips, requiring coordination with the glazing frame manufacturer. Some battens are movable for window cleaning.

Sustainability was a key design aspect, aiming for LEED Gold Certification and Green Star rating. Environmental features include a thermally efficient façade, solar-powered green roof, and ample natural light through blackbutt-lined aluminum battens.

Product Characteristics

Sculptform offers an aluminum Click-on Batten system suitable for wall, ceiling, or facade cladding, indoors or outdoors. The battens securely attach to concealed mounting tracks through a push-click mechanism, with factory-fixed batten clips ensuring precise spacing and easy installation. The system provides two batten profiles, Block and Tube, allowing architects and designers to create varied clad surfaces. Different finishing options are available, including wood finish aluminum and real timber veneer, striking a balance between aesthetics, durability, and project certification requirements.

Project Details