Kia Arena was a key component of the $271.5 million third stage of the Melbourne Park Redevelopment, completed in 2021. The project was a collaboration between NH Architecture, RWA Sports Architecture, and Snøhetta, with landscape design by ASPECT Studios. The arena is partially sunken into the ground and features an open-roof structure that provides shade and weather protection for most spectators, although it does not have a retractable roof.
The KIA Arena cladding project involves the installation of sophisticated cladding solutions for the soffit, wall linings and the arena exterior. Custom Clad supplied and installed 3,000sqm of 3mm solid and perforated Mondoclad for the soffit and wall linings of the arena.
The exterior cladding includes the use of 2mm aluminium perforated rib cladding, each 6m in length, supported by a secondary framing system, composed of top hats. The cladding system features concealed fixings using a cassette system, with open joints complemented by powder-coated angles and fixings, providing a seamless and modern finish.
An essential aspect of the project was the Design Certification of Megaribs and SCA soffit and wall cladding, ensuring that all cladding components met stringent safety and performance standards.
Additional elements of the project include lightweight framing for the suspended ceiling support and structural angles around the perimeter of the arena. The entire process was meticulously planned, with a lead time of 4 weeks for shop drawings and 6 weeks for fabrication.