Sun shading system
UTS Central
Telephone –
+61 2 9966 8867
Email –
studio@tilt-industrialdesign.com
PHIVE Civic Hub
Bespoke sun-shading solution, designed for performance and to emphasise the facade's curvilinear geometry.
Parramatta, NSW | Burramattagal
2022
Architects – DesignInc, Lacoste+Stevenson, Manuelle Gautrand Architecture
Developer – BUILT
Façade delivery management – CORE
Structural engineering – Partridge
Client – City of Parramatta
Photographer – Sara Vita
PHIVE, a landmark building for Parramatta City with cutting-edge design principles focused on environmental performance. Designed to provide the ultimate in sun shading performance, the western facing facade is detailed with automated sun-shading louvres custom designed by Tilt to respond to the uniquely shaped curvilinear roof line and mitigate sun strike.
Tilt was engaged by Core Facade Delivery Management to support BUILT in delivering the automated louvre system.
In order to provide full coverage of the facade addressing the arched geometry of the roof, a custom design approach was required. The use of proprietary louvre systems could not achieve the architectural intent.
Based on conceptual designs provided by the architectural team, Tilt detailed the facade design in response to the strict performance requirements and manufacturing opportunities. Tilt developed a detailed 3D model and extracted digital files for use in manufacturing to manage quality control for the system’s high number of unique components.
The design process was supported by the development of a full-size prototype, enabling stakeholders to review the concept from both an aesthetic and mechanical perspective, with feedback integrated into the final design. The prototyping process was a key step, providing proof of principle for key technical components of the design, allowing for further optimisation before committing to manufacturing.
Tilt worked closely with CORE beyond detailed design and engineering, supporting the procurement process for the blades from offshore suppliers, installing all components and commissioning of the system.
The individual louvre blades are made from custom aluminium extrusions and range in length from approximately 3.6m to 5m. The blades feature a CNC-machined aluminium end cap which achieves the unusual shape of the blades.
200 parallelogram-shaped louvre blades overlay each other, providing an innovative design that responds to the strict performance requirements of managing solar heat gain from entering the building.
Electric linear actuators facilitate the louvre operation. The motors operate in groups of louvre blades connected on linkage arms for synchronised operation.
A series of control boxes provide for local control of each group of louvres. The louvres can be operated by a timer or ultimately can respond to inputs from the buildings’ management system, permitting optimisation of the system for best performance – as defined by the users of the building.
“The six-storey building will be dedicated to the community, offering a contemporary public library, a Discovery Centre with exhibition spaces and visitor services, creative spaces and meeting rooms, and a café. It will also be home to the new Council Chambers.”
— City of Parramatta.
Explore more projects
New business — studio@tilt-industrialdesign.com
Careers — admin@tilt-industrialdesign.com
Press & media — press@tilt-industrialdesign.com
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community.
We pay our respects to them, their cultures, and to Elders past and present.