Pennant Hills will be coming alive with the sound of music from students of Mount St Benedict College following the completion of the school’s new Creative and Performing Arts Centre. The facility, which opened in February this year, features Alspec window and door framing products designed to maximise natural light and integrate the diverse requirements of multi-purpose learning and performance space.

Named after a visionary Benedictine Abbess, the "Hildegard Centre" includes a 220 seat theatre equipped with full stage production facilities, as well as music, drama, dance and art classrooms and studios. In addition, the students have access to a rooftop viewing area where their artwork can be inspired by the stunning local bushland views.

At ground level, the curved foyer entry to the theatre space is accessible through Hawkesbury Bi-fold Doors. Ideal for this type of large floor-to-ceiling application, the Hawkesbury doors have been configured to stack outwardly. When opened, this configuration maximises the ability to move large numbers of people in an out of the theatre before and after performances. The doors top-rolling operation and tyred floor guides combine with Alspec sealing technology to ensure the space is completely protected from the elements when the doors are closed.

For other door requirements, the Swan 45m Commercial Door was used in both hinged and sliding configurations. The Swan door is Alspec’s most widely used product for commercial shop front applications, and this commercial durability will ensure it meets the high-use demands of students utilising the creative facility. The Swan doors can accommodate single and double glazing as required and feature centre pocket glazing. The centre pocket glazing requires less glazing beads, providing a cleaner finish and added security benefits.

The centre pocket structure was also taken advantage of through the selection of McArthur 101.6 x 44mm framing solutions for the facility’s windows. McArthur framing can be widely adapted for a range of needs as it can easily accommodate awning, double hung and sliding windows as well as louvres. The all-important self-draining sub sills ensure the facility will be free from any water ingress issues.

By constructing a premier facility utilising high performance products, the new Creative and Performing Arts Centre is set to receive its own round of applause from the students and teachers of Mount St Benedicts College.

Architect: Paynter Dixon
Builder: Paynter Dixon Constructions Pty Ltd
Alspec Fabricator: Nuview Window and Door Installations
Powdercoat Finish: Dulux Woodland Grey Satin

Alspec Products Used:
McArthur Evo 101.6mm Centre Pocket Framing
Hawkesbury® Commercial Multi-Fold Door