Pimlico Academy auditorium
A showcase for perforated aluminium panels
Gooding Aluminium wall cladding at Pimlico Academy. Architecture PLB. Photography: Rown Isaac.
When Westminster City Council invested in new facilities at Pimlico Academy, the goal was to transform the school into a centre of excellence for sport and the arts. The redevelopment was part of the wider Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme and included a new sports hall with a public gym, an all-weather pitch, and a community library and learning centre.
As part of this ambitious upgrade, Architecture PLB approached Gooding Aluminium to help deliver an auditorium space that was not only visually striking but also acoustically effective. The result was a sleek, modern interior using perforated aluminium wall cladding panels finished a natural anodised coating.
A tailored approach to aluminium wall cladding
The auditorium needed to offer high performance for sound quality while also standing up to the demands of a busy secondary school. Our lightweight aluminium panels were the ideal solution.
Each of the 90 individually punched wall panels and trays was made to order using pattern GA PPS252, with a neat 25mm plain border. These perforated aluminium wall panels allow sound to pass through them, helping to reduce echo and improve acoustics inside the hall. This makes them ideal for a space used for performances, assemblies and sporting events.
The panels were finished with a natural anodised coating – a silky smooth surface that not only looks smart but is easy to clean and built to last. The anodised finish also adds a layer of durability, protecting the panels from scratches and general wear over time.
Delivered on time, ready for the school year
With the school due to open for the start of term in early September, the schedule was tight. We understood the importance of delivering on time and completed production and finishing in just 18 days. This ensured that the auditorium was ready as planned, welcoming over 1,500 pupils at the start of the new academic year.
Speed of delivery without compromising on quality is something we pride ourselves on. Every panel was produced to the architect’s specification and delivered ready for installation on site.
What the architect had to say
Andrew Turner from Architecture PLB shared his experience of working with Gooding Aluminium on the Pimlico Academy project:
Q: What was your first impression of Gooding Aluminium?
“Encouragement that GA could fulfil our design requirements.”
Q: Why did you choose GA over other suppliers?
“GA’s reputation and costings.”
Q: How did GA respond to site-specific changes?
“They performed very well in accommodating a late change.”
Q: How were the turnaround and delivery times?
“Very good.”
Q: Were you happy with the finish?
“Consistently very good.”
Q: Did the completed installation meet your expectations?
“It certainly did!”
Why aluminium?
Aluminium was the ideal material choice for this project. It’s lightweight, corrosion resistant, and environmentally friendly – all important factors in a public building.
Here are a few reasons aluminium makes sense for wall cladding:
- Lightweight: Aluminium is only one-third the weight of steel, making it perfect for weight-sensitive projects like this one.
- Low maintenance: The surface naturally resists corrosion thanks to its self-generating oxide layer, reducing long-term upkeep.
- Recyclable: Aluminium can be recycled endlessly without loss of quality. In fact, recycling aluminium uses just 5% of the energy needed to produce it from raw materials.
- Durable: The anodised finish adds even more resilience, making it a long-lasting option in busy environments like schools and sports centres.
Supporting better spaces through design
At Gooding Aluminium, we supply high quality aluminium sheets, profiles and made-to-order products for both commercial and public sector buildings. The Pimlico Academy auditorium is a great example of how good design and clever material choices can work together to create inspiring spaces for learning and community use.
Tailored aluminium solutions
At Gooding Aluminium, we understand that every project has its own specific design and performance needs. That’s why we offer flexible aluminium solutions that can be tailored to suit a wide variety of applications, from education and healthcare to cultural venues and commercial interiors. Whether you’re looking for interior cladding with acoustic benefits, durable wall protection or simply a clean and contemporary finish, our bespoke aluminium panels provide a reliable and stylish solution.
Get in touch
If you’d like to know more about using perforated aluminium panels in your next project, visit www.goodingalum.com or get in touch to speak to one of our expert advisors.