In this first installment of our two-part blog series, we will explore globally influential architectural trends through selected projects from January to June in durlum's '2024 Project of the Month' series. These projects reflect durlum's vision for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future in architecture. We will also discuss emerging design trends for 2025.

User-Oriented Spaces: Where Aesthetics Meet Functionality with durlum

As a pioneer in ceiling and lighting systems, durlum has completed remarkable projects worldwide in 2024 with its innovative solutions. The projects featured in durlum GmbH's '2024 Project of the Month' series demonstrate how thoughtful design transforms both spaces and user experiences. These exceptional projects showcase the creation of interiors that achieve perfect harmony between light, form, aesthetics, and functionality. This approach elevates spaces beyond mere utility into enriching experiences.

Through collaboration with architects and designers, durlum shapes the future of architectural lighting by developing customized solutions that make people feel at home. The six architectural projects from the first half of the year in the '2024 Project of the Month' series highlight durlum's expertise in combining functionality with aesthetic excellence across diverse sectors.

Solutions That Make You Feel at Home

January: Yashobhoomi Conference Center - Where Traditional Design Meets Innovation

The Yashobhoomi Conference Centre in New Delhi, India's largest conference centre and the third largest in the world, was completed in September 2023 by Arcop Associates Pvt. Ltd. was completed by Arcop Associates Pvt. This special project, which provides users with an impressive interior experience, has created an impressive space by skilfully blending India's rich cultural heritage with modern design. durlum's hexagonal lighting panels with acoustic properties enhance the visual impact of the modern conference hall while also increasing the functionality of the space.

durlum also makes an important contribution to the project with specially designed metal ceiling systems. Triangular perforated aluminium panels give the space a distinguished appearance with their gold anodised coating, while aluminium wall panels in gold and silver tones offer balanced lighting thanks to the Plexiglas behind them. Brass-coloured anodised aluminium cylinders elegantly complement the geometric patterns.

February: Grüze Secondary School Sports Hall - Impact-Resistant Expanded Metal Ceilings

The new extension to the Grüze 5 Secondary School in Dübendorf, completed in October 2023 by Stutz Bolt Partner Architekten AG, features a double gym facility at its heart. This centerpiece exemplifies modern educational architecture's balance of functionality and design through its innovative, sleek lighting and ceiling solutions.

The TANGENTA-Y100 luminaires deliver balanced, glare-free illumination while enhancing the gym's acoustic quality and user experience. The specially designed lighting system provides homogeneous light distribution to optimize athletes' performance, while the metal ceilings ensure excellent acoustic insulation. The S7 RHOMBOS TAIFUN expanded metal ceiling system, working seamlessly with efficient LED units, excels in both durability and ball impact resistance. These ceiling panels not only improve the gym's functionality but also elevate its aesthetic appeal. The seamless integration of lighting and ceiling systems creates a visually striking yet practical space that enhances versatility and future-proofs the school's infrastructure.

March: Lincoln Avenue - Revitalizing the Bronx

The Lincoln at Bankside project in South Bronx, New York, completed in November 2022 by Hill West Architects, creates a peaceful urban retreat in the heart of New York, revitalizing the Mott Haven area with its modern design. The project offers affordable housing along with attractive amenities including fitness centers, common areas, and gardens.

The GEO open-cell metal ceiling system used in the lobby area reflects the identity of this transformation space. The network pattern created by large open cells enhances the space's width, creating an inviting and spacious atmosphere. Aluminum panels coated with RAL 9011 add a modern and elegant touch to the space.

The nature theme continues in the upper floors with LOOP custom design metal ceilings. While the round and rhythmic voids of the LOOP metal ceiling add dynamism to the space, its green color harmonizes with the surrounding vegetation to create a peaceful and natural atmosphere. The POLYLAM vertical baffle suspended ceiling system reinforces the natural aesthetics in the garden lobby of the inner courtyard, encouraging visitors to explore their surroundings.

April Project: Boston Logan Terminal E: Innovation in Aviation Architecture

Completed in 2023 by AECOM and Luis Vidal + Architects, Boston Logan International Airport Terminal E exemplifies modern aviation architecture. The project features Durlum's acoustic metal ceilings spanning three floors across 8,000 sqm. Rectangular metal panels—finished with RAL 9016 powder coating and black acoustic felt backing—deliver superior sound insulation. In the gate piers, the DOMUS curved metal ceiling, supported by the S4 ceiling system, creates an elegant identity.

Dynamic background lighting enhances the curved panels and specially perforated metal ceiling panels, bringing the space to life. The wall cladding uses 1.0 mm steel panels, available in multiple dimensions and RAL color options.

Using BIM technology for precise modeling, Terminal E achieved flawless construction coordination despite its architectural complexity. The project represents a masterful blend of functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic excellence—all centered on enhancing the passenger experience.

May: Pallars Student Residence - Cosmopolitan Student Life in the Heart of Barcelona

Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Pallars student residence provides students with an exceptional living experience. Completed in October 2022 by batlleiroig, this exceptional development caters to both the academic and social needs of its residents. The project's visual impact is significantly enhanced by Durlum's innovative FS 4.2 RHOMBOS and S4 RHOMBOS hook-on ceiling systems. These cutting-edge expanded metal ceiling systems blend seamless aesthetics with optimal acoustic performance. Spanning 668 sqm across the lobby, corridors, and reception areas, the bespoke design creates an atmosphere of openness. The M400 mesh structure, constructed with 1.0mm thick steel panels in an elegant RAL 9016 matte finish, adds a refined contemporary touch.

The building exemplifies the successful reimagining of industrial heritage through modern design. With its natural textures and abundant interior light, it provides an inspiring environment for students. This transformative project establishes new standards for future living spaces through its dedication to sustainable design.

June: Marvel Stadium Skyline Room - A Refined Touch of Modern Design

Completed in June 2023 by Grimshaw Architects, Marvel Stadium's luxurious Skyline Room artfully combines creativity with innovative design. This magnificent space, which frames the city's fascinating skyline with large floor-to-ceiling windows, is transformed into a visual masterpiece with durlum's S- and U-shaped DOMUS curved metal panels.

The ceiling features 3mm thick aluminum panels anodised in Champagne Gold. This system enhances the space's elegant atmosphere. Meticulously mounted with special connectors, the panels create seamless transitions at varying heights, amplifying the room's luxurious ambiance.

The 195 sqm ceiling area brings elegant character through its acoustic performance and aesthetic value. This cohesive design, harmonizing perfectly with the spectacular decoration, establishes the Marvel Stadium's Skyline Room as one of Melbourne's premier event venues. The interplay between architectural details and the city skyline creates an atmosphere of exclusivity.

Looking Ahead: Durlum's vision for 2025 and beyond

As we enter 2025, designers continue to develop environmentally conscious products and projects for a better future. Founded in 1946 and always staying true to its core principles, Durlum moves forward with the same enthusiasm in 2025. The company's forward-thinking approach seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technologies with sustainable design practices, focusing on architectural solutions that address not only today's challenges but also anticipate the needs of future generations.

With its commitment to user-oriented modern design and eco-friendly solutions, durlum will continue creating spaces that enable people to live harmoniously with their surroundings while feeling truly at home.

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Cover photo: @Ema Peter l Project: Boston Logan International Airport Terminal E l Product: durlum S4 ceiling system