Darley Aluminium Systems Enhance King Street Wharf Project

A bespoke design for a landmark location

Developed in collaboration with PMDL Architecture + Design and Mainbrace Construction, the awning system was fabricated by Magic Glass using more than 1,600m² of digitally-printed, heat-strengthened glass with purpose-designed aluminium roofing.

The roofing comprises Darley Aluminium Capped Front Glazed systems (103mm x 50mm Capped Front Glazed and 150mm x 50mm Capped Front Glazed), an adaptable system that allows for flexibility in challenging projects.

The awnings combine both form and function, providing weather protection for visitors and hospitality venues along the promenade, while enhancing the visual appeal of the precinct.

A standout feature of the awning system is the continuous structural rhythm – 360 aluminium top caps and base plates echo the form of the waterfront buildings.

The challenges of the project

As with any major installation, especially one in such a busy public space, the project came with its share of challenges.

The awning system needed to deliver on functionality and practicality while preserving the visual integrity of the architectural design. The awning system had to remain watertight, despite a shallow, almost flat, roof pitch.

The choice of materials was key. Magic Glass carefully selected products, including 13.52mm Clear Fritt Pattern Heat Soaked Toughened Laminated Safety Glass and 6mm colour back glass, for durability, clarity and the ability to meet the performance and aesthetic demands of the project.

Weather resistance was another important factor, given the harbour-side location. Magic Glass ordered the roofing sections and caps from Darley Aluminium in Dulux Fluoroset Xtreme Monument Matt powder coat with a 30 year colour and 35 year durability warranty, for enhanced finish and corrosion protection.

Every component had to be measured and installed with absolute precision to align with the shop drawings, a task made more complex by the sheer size and weight of the glass panels. The awning system needed to integrate seamlessly with the existing structure, making meticulous attention to detail and precision execution essential to the project’s success.

The timeline added a layer of pressure, with the system installed in three stages over just 55 days. Working in a busy public area meant deliveries could only occur after hours, and space for storing materials was extremely limited.

Magic Glass overcame each obstacle through detailed planning, strong coordination and close collaboration with contractors and suppliers – a collective effort that ensured the project came together exactly as envisioned.

How Darley Aluminium contributed to the project’s success

Magic Glass Chief Operating Officer Michael Pascoe says Darley Aluminium’s flexible supply process was a positive throughout the installation.

“This made it easy for us to pre-order what we needed as we needed it, rather than having to store it all on-site,” Michael says.

The tight timeline and precision requirements of the project also meant consistent quality supply was essential for the installation team.

“Darley Aluminium’s service was exceptional, and they were proactive in managing our supply line over the project duration,” Michael says.

Well-deserved recognition for the project

The King Street Wharf awning project was entered into the 2025 AGWA Design Awards, which celebrates the use of bespoke glass, glazing and innovative products in building projects.

The judges were clearly impressed – the installation won a Bespoke Design Project Award.

Magic Glass also took home several other AGWA Awards, highlighting the calibre of the company’s work.

Ray Kwan, Darley Aluminium’s National Sales Manager, says Magic Glass is known for quality high-profile work. “Magic Glass has been a valued customer for a long time, and we’ve got a great working relationship,” he says. “We’re very pleased we were able to provide the service and support they needed on this project, and that their fantastic work has been recognised.”

Projects like King Street Wharf showcase what’s possible when vision, careful choice of materials and precision workmanship meet!