Manning Community Hub

The raked timber ceilings in the Library and Hall were a major challenge. Ceilings were up to 4m high and required the use of Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) for completion.

• Fully glazed and semi-glazed brickwork with five different brick selections for each: All brickwork was manufactured in the eastern states, resulting in a 12-week lead time at a cost of nearly $7,000 per 1,000 bricks for fully glazed and nearly $4,500 per 1,000 for semi-glazed.
• Full height glazing to several elevations: Designed to allow northern light penetration in winter with automatically opening highlight windows to allow for natural ventilation in appropriate weather. Thermally dynamic Low-E (thermally rated) glass and sun shading assist with insulation.
• Tensile structure to the oval grandstand: Structural steel was erected to within a tolerance of +/-10mm. The tensile membrane was installed in one piece.

Completed in October 2016, the Manning Community Hub is a multi-million dollar project devised to create a new ‘heart’ for Manning. The finished facility provides the community with a vibrant, connected and attractive precinct that integrates community services and social activities. Located between Bradshaw Crescent and Conochie Avenue in Manning, the new facility adjoins James Miller Oval and is centrally located close to the Welwyn Avenue shops, the Manning Senior Citizens Centre and Manning Primary School.

The design of the development has a complex blend of finishes and layouts to stand out from the crowd. Comprising of a single storey facility with basement car parking, the various buildings are connected by a striking central concourse. This feature comes alive with spectator seating, plus several functional (and visually striking) timber pergolas featuring glazed canopies. A central stairway connects the upgraded community oval and change room facilities.

The external elevation features a blend of glazed brickwork, Terracade cladding, metal cladding, timber cladding and stonework, creating a dynamic appearance that beautifully complements the surrounding residences. This superior external design philosophy is transferred internally with a series of complex, high level finishes fusing colours, textures and product type, from timber panelling to acoustic fabric walling.