AAF Evershield® Anodising Featured at Sydney's Newest Pool Complex

AAF EverShield® AQ Sheet solution and high-grade anodising finishes prove their innovation, sustainability and high durability at Sydney’s Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre – a world-class, socially-inclusive facility for local communities that was recently open on February 1st, 2021.

The largest new pool complex since the 2000 Olympics

Deriving its name from the local Dharug language meaning “wind from the southwest”, Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre is inspired by Sydney’s popular beach pools and the freshwater creeks and wetlands that once coursed through the area. The complex features four pools, a pastel-hued water playgrounds, a full health and fitness centre among other state-of-the-art facilities.

The mastermind behind this ambitious pool design is the partnership between Andrew Burges Architects, Grimshaw Architects and builder CPB Contractors. More than just an aquatic centre, this architecturally impressive site acts as a hub of green, open space and recreation at the heart of the Green Square urban renewal precinct. “From children playing and friends taking a dip to serious swimmers improving lap times – Gunyama offers something for everyone.”, quoted the City of Sydney website.

Another unique significance of Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre lies in its connection with the First Nation culture. Artists Aunty Julie Freeman and Jonathan John have been commissioned to create two bronze sculptures depicting bangala – traditional bark water carriers used by local communities along Australia’s east coast.

AAF EverShield® high-grade anodising – the optimal durability for aquatic facilities

Considering the facility’s humid environment and high projected daily visits, the interior and exterior subcontractor Brighton Australia has reached out to AAF for superior, durable and consistent shading anodising finishes. After thorough discussion and sampling, AAF EverShield® Ebony Matt (black) finish was applied on extrusion products, as seen between windows.

Utilising EverShield® high-grade anodising, strict processing controls and specialised spectrophotometric equipment, the consistent shading and uniformity of finishes are guaranteed. Even edge pull, a real concern in perforated sheet, is overcome as the anodic film evenly grows the protective oxide layer around all surfaces, including edges. The final result is a real metallic finish that is highly sustainable and durable with performance warranty of up to 30 years.

EverShield® high-grade anodising is an integral finish that cannot flake, peel or blister and come with extreme UV resistance. That explains how AAF guarantee long-lasting performance against Gunyama’s humid aquatic environment, outdoor pools with high average sunshine duration and high volume traffic.

Clients were also happy with AAF’s advantage of direct access to various sheet suppliers and mills available in Australia, which resulted in shorter lead time, economical pricing and free pre-purchase services.

How anodised aluminium helps with the complex’s sustainability goals

Sustainability has been one of the dominating building trends across Australia and Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre is no exception. The expansive complex is the first recreation centre in Australia to achieve a 5-star Green Star rating thanks to its innovative energy co-generation system, climate-controlled zones, a large array of photovoltaic panels and other sustainable design features.

The use of anodised aluminium is also a noticeable addition to meet sustainability goals. Aluminium itself is dubbed as Earth’s third most abundant and sustainable element. EverShield® high-grade anodising finishes further enhance this environmental virtue as:

• Anodised aluminium is 100% recyclable and zero fire rating.
• Anodising preserves and extends the life of aluminium products.
• Anodising is performed without generating any hazardous waste.

By specifying AAF EverShield® finishes, architects, builders and project developers can rest assured that all anodising finishes are of highest quality and fully compliant to Australia’s stringent sustainability standards. The solution is third-party audited and licensed for “AnoAudit” Anodising Accreditation as well as complying with the recommendations of Australian Standard AS1231-2000, appendix B & G.

Project Specifications

Architect: Andrew Burges Architects and Grimshaw Architects
Client: City of Sydney
Photography: Brett Boardman Photography
Completion: Feb 2021
Product: EverShield® Ebony Matt (black) and EverShield® AQ Sheet