The Carnegie Memorial Swimming Pool Centre is a major community facility designed by CO.OP Studio, a practice recognised for its work across civic and community-focused projects.

Delivered as a local government project, the centre was constructed as a completely new build, replacing previous facilities and significantly expanding the scale, program, and architectural ambition of the development.

Covet was engaged early in the design process, working closely with the design team to explore colour options, profile sizes, and spatial applications suited to a high-use, humid aquatic environment. Through this collaborative process, Covet Kabebari timber-look aluminium battens were selected as a key interior material, responding to both the architectural intent and the functional demands of the building.

A 50×50 Covet Kabebari profile, finished in Covet Ever Art Wood® Biera Oku, was selected as the dominant element and used extensively across ceilings, walls, and breakout areas throughout the facility. The finish was chosen to complement the broader interior palette, contributing to a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

 

As a commercial aquatic facility, material selection was governed by strict performance requirements. The use of non-combustible, fire-rated aluminium battens addressed compliance needs while also responding to the highly humid pool environment, where natural timber would be susceptible to deterioration over time. The selected system delivers the appearance of timber alongside the dimensional stability and durability required for long-term public use.

The project was constructed by ADCO, with the Kabebari installation delivered by a specialist subcontractor. During delivery, the originally specified Kabebari Standard system was substituted with Kabebari Surface profiles in select ceiling applications, achieving the same visual outcome while simplifying installation where the base structure was not visible.

In key circulation zones, including the main walkway connecting the reception to the pool halls, 30×50 Covet Kabebari battens finished in Covet Ever Art Wood® Riigaru Oku were introduced to articulate movement and rhythm through the interior, reinforcing a clear sense of arrival and spatial identity. All battens were specified as surface-mounted profiles, appropriate to their interior application.

The completed Carnegie Leisure Centre delivers a refined yet highly functional civic interior, with timber-look aluminium battens playing a central role in shaping the architectural experience. The finished result closely reflects the original design intent, with the realised spaces exceeding initial visualisations.

Cladding Range

Ever Art Wood® timber look aluminium battens

Cladding Profile

Kabebabri 30x50, 50x50, 50x150 & Covet Koshi 210x50

Colour

Ever Art Wood® Biera Oku & Riigaru Oku

Surface texture

Raised, wood grain texture

Fire rating test results ‎

Performs well when tested to AS/NZ 1530.3 (spread of flame / index 0), and ASTM E84-20 (Surface burning characteristics /Class A) and AS/NZ 3837-1998 (result / Group 1).

Fade Resistance

Exterior Grade: minimal fade after 10-12 years outdoor exposure

Cladding Reflectivity

Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Biera Oku & Riigaru Oku

Covet Ever Art Wood - Riigaru Oku

Covet Ever Art Wood - Biera Oku

Kabebabri 30x50mm

Covet Koshi 210x50mm

Kabebabri 50x50mm

Kabebabri 50x50mm

 

Architect: CO.OP Studio

Development/ Construction: ADCO Construction

Photographer: Tom Roe Photography 

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