Rockfon offer high-performing intelligent acoustic solutions
The Glucksman Library at the University of Limerick is one of the biggest campus libraries in Ireland and one of the most digitally advanced in the world. The €30m project includes a 7,600sqm extension and new facilities that offer students advanced computing, collaboration and communication spaces. Acoustic ceilings from Rockfon® are fitted throughout and play a pivotal role in helping the university realise its vision.
Meeting the brief
RKD Architects designed the library with a sequence of open-plan, flexible, naturally-lit areas allowing for multiple uses, from quiet reading and study to more collaborative activities. Our Rockfon Eclipse® islands are ideal for these flexible spaces, producing innovative ceiling designs that work in harmony with the library’s contemporary interior. We’re very proud to have worked with RKD Architects and congratulate them on winning Public Sector Fit Out Project of the Year at this year’s Fit Out Awards in Ireland.
Acoustic solutions
Produced from 40mm thick stone wool, each island has two smooth surfaces which absorb sound helping create an environment where speech can be heard clearly in busy areas and, protecting neighbouring quiet spaces from intrusive noise. The acoustics in the library were a fundamental part of the design. We offer a cost-effective solution that meets the specification thanks to the products’ highest Class A sound absorption and safest Class A1 fire protection.
Distinctive designs
Rockfon Eclipse islands are available in square, circle, rectangle, and custom design shapes. Hung from thin wires, they appear to float, adding a distinctive look to any interior. They can be positioned in any arrangement, at any height, fixed to the ceiling and at different angles. A white finish was chosen for the ceiling islands in the library. The Eclipse ceiling islands can also be specified in many colours using the Natural Colour system. To make sure the colour is spot on, we’ll send a sample swatch for approval prior to production.
Munster’s new purpose-built Rugby High Performance Centre at the University of Limerick is situated next to The Glucksman Library and is also fitted with Rockfon Eclipse islands. Here the islands provide excellent sound control in the circulation areas and break-out spaces.
Comfortable lighting
Made to bespoke sizes specifically for Glucksman, Chicago Metallic™ Infinity® framed ceiling islands installed with Rockfon Blanka® E ceiling tiles help create a modern design for the library’s conference rooms. Rockfon Blanka has a smooth, deep matt, super white surface with high light reflection and light diffusion to create a bright and comfortable environment that helps meet the university’s brief for well-lit spaces. The islands are constructed to provide high sound absorption and sound insulation, ensuring conversations inside the rooms remain private and undisturbed by external noise.
Installation success
Hyland Ceilings’ Managing Director, Mark Hyland is very pleased with how the installation went. “We found the Rockfon ceilings and Chicago Metallic suspension grids very easy to work with. The grids just clicked into place and attached to the tiles without effort. The ceilings look excellent, and the client is very pleased. We are now working with Rockfon on a new project and we’re happy to do so.”
SIG in Dublin supplied our products for both projects at the university. SIG has branches across Ireland and stocks a large range of our acoustic ceilings and wall panels.
Thrilled
Rockfon Sales Manager for Ireland Kevin Clancy is thrilled with the finished results at The Glucksman Library and Munster Rugby High Performance Centre, “it is great to be working on such innovative projects in Ireland where our acoustic solutions really do come to the fore.”
Rockfon acoustic ceiling solutions are designed to offer unrivalled benefits. All our products are manufactured from stone wool which offers excellent performance in terms of fire safety (A1) and 100% humidity resistance. Stone wool is non-combustible, structurally stable and offers easy maintenance and longevity. To find out how we can assist with your project, visit www.rockfon.co.uk
