A lightweight, durable ETFE roof brings daylight and adaptable shading to Adelaide Botanic High School’s central atrium. ETFE foil is low-maintenance and therefore ideal for a busy educational facility. Read more about the project below!
Adelaide Botanic High School
ETFE roof in Australia with variable shading options: Adelaide Botanic High School’s atrium is comfortable all year round.
Project Overview
Australia
Country
403
m²
of ETFE
2019
Completed
Cox Architects Adelaide
Architects
At A Glance – ETFE at the Adelaide Botanic High School
- 403 m² ETFE atrium roof brings daylight into the school’s central space.
- Three-layer cushion system with adjustable shading for year-round comfort.
- Lightweight solution reduced the structural load of the vertical school design.
- Creates a bright, welcoming environment for students and staff.
- Durable and low-maintenance, ideal for a busy educational facility.
403 m²
of ETFE
Practical Design Enhanced by ETFE
Located in the heart of Adelaide, Botanic High School brings a fresh approach to education architecture. Designed by Cox Architects with Arup Engineers, the school accommodates up to 1,250 students in a vertical layout – a smart use of space in an urban setting that keeps facilities close together and reduces walking distances between classes.
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Angus Macleod
Technical Director | Australia & New Zealand
An ETFE Roof for the Central Atrium
A roof with variable shading? Possible with ETFE foils!
At the core of the building is a 403 m² atrium, sheltered by a lightweight three-layer ETFE roof. The system’s translucent and UV-transparent properties allow daylight to fill the space, creating a bright and welcoming environment while reducing the need for artificial lighting.
The ETFE cushions feature variable shading, enabling the school to adjust light levels and glare control throughout the day. This combination of natural light and adaptable shading makes the atrium comfortable year-round for both learning and social activities.
Visual Journey
The ETFE roof from underneath.
The atrium at Adelaide Botanic High School.
Silver printing reflects the sunlight.
Click on the pictures to see the full size
Why ETFE Was Chosen
ETFE’s low weight reduced structural demands for the roof, keeping costs and materials in check. Its durability, low maintenance requirements, and weather resistance ensure the system will perform reliably for years with minimal upkeep. The material’s ability to span wide areas without heavy support also made it ideal for covering the open central space efficiently.
A Functional, Cost-Effective Solution
From design to installation, the ETFE roof was delivered to meet the project’s timeline and budget, providing the school with a practical, attractive, and energy-efficient solution.
Looking for smart, lightweight roofing solutions?
Contact us to learn how ETFE can enhance your next education or public building project.
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