Posts

The new Ringwood Carpark for Maroondah City Council showcases how architecture, sustainability, and efficient construction can come together in a single cohesive design.

LOHAS Australia

Supplied by Lohas Australia, the Flexbrick® Terracotta Mesh System wraps the 1,890m² façade in a warm gradient of tones, creating a monolithic and visually distinctive exterior.

Lightweight and durable, Flexbrick® allowed rapid installation using 197 prefabricated panels, typically achieving 10–15 panels or 150–200m² per day. Panels arrived pre-assembled on pallets,
lifted into place with a forklift and winch, and fixed directly to the subframe.

The carpark’s curved façades and shifting levels required a system capable of adapting to complex geometry. Flexbrick®’s flexible textile structure provided smooth transitions around corners and changes in elevation. “Flexbrick allowed us to softly curve around corners as the façade wraps the building,” IBC notes.

Sustainability is embedded in every stage. Flexbrick®’s creamic tiles are manufactured using biogas as the main fuel source, preventing CO2 emissions. Lightweight, compact shipments reduce transport impact, and the dry-joined system allows full recyclability and straightforward replacement of individual tiles.

Lohas Australia supported the project with shop drawings, panel modulation, installer training, and early onsite supervision. Working with CO.OP Studio, Lohas also developed the five-colour gradient façade that blends from Blanco to Rojo, reflecting the site’s urban character.

With its speed, sustainability and sculptural presence, the Ringwood Carpark stands as a benchmark project demonstrating the architectural and environmental advantages of Flexbrick® in modern urban design.

For more information contact Lohas Australia, phone 02 7259 1054, email info@lohasau.com, website www.lohasau.com

Ozbrick Masonry showcased precision, innovation, and collaboration, delivering bespoke masonry that elevated Norwest Quarter’s architectural excellence.

Ozbrick Masonry

The Norwest Quarter development represents a new benchmark in sustainable, design-led living, and for Ozbrick Masonry, it was an opportunity to demonstrate how expert craftsmanship and innovative problem-solving can elevate complex architectural visions into enduring structures.

Combining technical precision with aesthetic sensitivity, Ozbrick delivered a comprehensive masonry package including bricklaying, stonework, and blockwork that were integral to both the structural framework and also enhanced the projects visual identity and long-term performance.

The project’s use of distinctive LOHAS bricks introduced an exciting technical challenge, as their unique shapes and dimensions required careful planning and precise workmanship. “Additionally, the incorporation of a railing slip brick system required precise integration with conventional brickwork, ensuring a seamless blend of styles and functionality,” said Louay Ahmed, Managing Director.

Among the most distinctive design features were the ‘drums’, a striking hit-and-miss brick element created with smoked LOHAS bricks.

“The integration of this feature required precise coordination with the structural steel that supported the brickwork,” Louay noted. “Thanks to the skill and expertise of the Ozbrick team, these challenges were successfully overcome, ensuring a seamless and visually appealing result.”

“Our team collaborated closely with architects and engineers throughout the design and construction phases,” Louay said.
“We employed high-quality materials and skilled tradespeople to achieve superior alignment and finishes. Regular quality checks and adherence to best practices ensured that both the structural integrity and the aesthetic vision were realised.”

The use of durable materials and expert craftsmanship contributes significantly to the long-term resilience and weatherproofing of the Norwest Quarter complex. “The success of the masonry work is a testament to the strong collaboration between all parties. The Norwest Quarter stands out as a benchmark for future developments in the region,” said Louay.

For more information contact Ozbrick Masonry, 3 Holbeche Road, Arndell Park, NSW 2148 Australia, phone 0425 807 705, email admin@ozbrick.com.au, website www.ozbrick.com.au