Tara Aquatic Centre, NSW

Client: Tara Anglican School for Girls

Location: Parramatta, NSW

Product: SJ Jalousie

The new Aquatic Centre at Tara Anglican School for Girls in North Parramatta is a state-of-the-art addition to the campus designed by NBRS Architecture and constructed by Taylors. The enclosed 25-metre competition heated pool and separate learn-to-swim-pool have been designed for year-round use, accommodating water polo and various aquatic activities.

The design of indoor aquatic facilities, such as this new centre, poses complex challenges for architects. Achieving a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and managing the unique environmental factors of an indoor pool requires innovative solutions. High humidity levels and inadequate ventilation can compromise both the comfort of pool-goers and the building's structural integrity. Without effective ventilation, excessive moisture can lead to poor air quality, harmful buildup of chemicals like chloramines, and even structural damage from prolonged exposure to high humidity.

Efficient ventilation strategies are vital in indoor pool areas to control humidity, improve air quality, and extend the building's lifespan.

To help address these challenges, NBRS Architecture specified SJ Jalousie louvre windows with vacuum insulated glass. These louvres offer a high-performance solution that supports climate management and occupant comfort in the aquatic centre by providing;

• Precise Airflow Control: The operable louvres allow for precise adjustment of natural airflow, adapting ventilation levels to changing conditions.
• Enhancing Indoor Air Quality: By promoting natural cross-flow ventilation, the louvres help to expel moisture-laden air and reduce the buildup of airborne chemicals which can pose health risks in pool areas.
• Thermal Efficiency and condensation control:. The louvres feature vacuum insulated glass, providing excellent insulation and exceptional resistance to condensation. The vacuum chamber between the glass panes eliminates the possibility of condensation and keeps the indoor glass surface temperature above the dew-point, ensuring clear visibility and protecting the building structure.
• Energy Savings: The combination of natural ventilation and superior thermal performance helps reduce energy consumption by lessening the need for intensive HVAC use for dehumidification and heating/cooling.

The use of Safetyline Jalousie's operable louvres with vacuum insulated glass at the Tara Aquatic Centre, exemplifies how innovative design and technology can effectively address the unique challenges of indoor aquatic spaces, promoting the well-being of users while optimizing energy efficiency.