Rider Levett Bucknall Office, Melbourne
Hot Black Designs Bespoke Paddle Ceiling for RLB’s New Melbourne Office
A sculptural ceiling installation has defined the interior of the RLB's new office fit-out and brings texture and movement to this modern workplace.
Designed by Hot Black and delivered by MPA, this project takes the overhead plane to another level with this highly textured architectural feature that introduces rhythm, depth and acoustic comfort.
Working alongside distribution partner MBS Architectural and installer Roxy Interiors, SAS International manufactured the bespoke paddle ceiling system designed and developed specifically for the project. The ceiling solution is a great demonstration of how modular metal systems can be the key contributor to the spatial identity and atmosphere of an office interior.
The paddle ceiling introduces a high level of flexibility through variations in size, spacing, orientation, and finish. For this project, 100 × 100 mm paddles set at 100 mm centres create a disciplined yet dynamic ceiling plane that responds subtly to changing light conditions throughout the day. With a two‑tone combination of grey ripple‑effect finishes, the ceiling delivers on multiple levels, offering both visual movement and material richness.
Acoustic performance was also a central part of to the design approach. With an NRC of 0.55, the ceiling system contributes to a more comfortable workplace environment across front-of-house, breakout and collaborative areas, including flexible town hall spaces used for company gatherings. Pre-assembled carrier rails also supported installation efficiency while ensuring alignment and consistency across the ceiling plane.
Targeting a 6 Star Green Star outcome, this project reflects a focus on sustainability and long-term workplace performance. The expressive interior is a demonstration of bespoke ceiling systems defining the functionality of modern commercial environments.
Sector:
Commercial
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System Type:
Bespoke Metal Paddle Ceiling
Region:
Melbourne, Australia
Completion Year:
2026
