Shaping Light and Form: Perforated Metal at Albert Hall

About this project

Shaping Light and Form: Perforated Metal at Albert Hall

The iconic Albert Hall (Launceston, TAS) has reopened following completion of the extensive Eastern Wing Redevelopment and Great Hall refurbishment, marking a new era for one of Tasmania’s most cherished heritage venues.

This $20.7 million redevelopment delivers significant improvements to functionality, accessibility, and sustainability, including the reconstruction of the 1980s-era Eastern Wing and a comprehensive internal renewal of the Great Hall and surrounding spaces.

As part of this transformation, Arrow Metal was engaged to manufacture a bespoke perforated aluminium façade and interior ceiling system – a contemporary architectural layer that respectfully complements the historic fabric of the building.

A Contemporary Threshold Between Heritage and Landscape

Positioned between the Hall and the park, the new architectural intervention is conceived as a transitional element that mediates between heritage structure and landscape.

Externally, the façade is formed from vertically folded perforated aluminium panels, creating a rhythmic, faceted surface that wraps the new addition.

Click on photos to enlarge

Internally, this language continues into a sweeping curved ceiling, establishing a unified architectural expression across both exterior and interior environments.

Together, these elements create a cohesive threshold experience – visually striking from the outside, and immersive from within.

Material & Fabrication

The project utilises aluminium perforated panels, manufactured in Arrow Metal’s custom P2320 perforation pattern and finished in a Monument powder coat – a deep, neutral charcoal tone with subtle brown undertones that become visible in strong natural light.

Key fabrication elements include:

• Folded façade panels forming a dynamic, articulated external geometry
• Curved ceiling panels creating a continuous internal surface
• Controlled perforation patterning across changing angles and curved forms
• High-precision fabrication to ensure seamless integration across complex geometries

The contrast between folded and curved forms demonstrates the versatility of perforated aluminium in responding to different architectural conditions while maintaining a unified design language.

Click on photos to enlarge

Light, Performance & Atmosphere

The perforated metal façade and ceiling are not purely aesthetic – they are integral to the building’s performance and experience.

The P2320 perforation pattern allows controlled daylight penetration, reducing glare while creating a dynamic play of light and shadow. Externally, the façade softens the building’s mass and introduces transparency. Internally, the curved perforated ceiling works in tandem with integrated lighting to produce a refined, atmospheric space – where light filters through and reflects across the surface in constantly shifting patterns.

The perforations also contribute to acoustic moderation within the interior threshold, enhancing comfort and usability.

Call us on (02) 9748 2200 or email sales@arrowmetal.com.au to discuss your project. Sample packs are available on request.

Browse or download our Perforated Metal Catalogue  or  Project Look Book for more perforated metal inspiration.

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