Sonic Sky NZ was first to be introduced, near the start of the year. It was received very well by architects, designers and interior contractors, especially throughout Auckland, who were looking for more design flexibility in acoustic ceiling options.

Potter Aluminium Partition Systems are continuously being modified, developed and improved, due to to new, innovative solutions being reached through various fitout project requirements. Last year revealed many new optional profiles – most of which have either been architect-driven (on a project-specific basis) or have risen through Potters’ own technical department and the development of current partition suites to set new standards.

Potters’ latest interior lining product to enter the market offers some unique points of difference to currently available fibre cement lining options. Cemintel fibre cement products and systems have been specifically designed to meet the needs of the New Zealand building market.

Cemintel is produced using a unique production process which provides a flatter, smoother sheet, resulting in superior surface finish. CeminSeal (embedded micro waterblock technology) is applied post-manufacture, to not only prevent water penetrating into the sheet, but also help achieve a stronger joint and compound adhesion, as well as 100% paint adhesion.

The Cemintel Soffitline system – which can be direct fixed (using USG furring channel) or suspended – is a differentiated system for exterior use where a flush joint appearance is required. It has CeminSeal waterblock technology on both sides and all four edges of each sheet.

Potter Interior Systems also has some exciting new coloured and/or textured products for 2013 which have never before been available in the New Zealand market. With Heradesign and Varioline newly added, Potter Interior Systems can now offer acoustic wall and ceiling solutions to compliment almost any type of project.

With the current renovation/refurbishment market looking to change a little over the coming months, architects and designers will be looking to get more out of some products and systems which are currently available and will be looking for flexibility in design and use, which they will find amongst these new products.

Another product of 2012 was the updated USG Generic Seismic Design Guide, which is now available online. USG has now completed numerous seismic suspended ceiling designs for various projects throughout New Zealand, including in Christchurch, which will continue through 2013 and beyond.