The new PLC Aquatic Centre at Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Burwood features pool surround materials supplied by Klay as part of a state-of-the-art sports and aquatic facility designed to support physical literacy, wellbeing, and long-term learning outcomes for young women. Designed by Warren and Mahoney, the centre has been conceived as a high-performance sporting environment and a real-world learning tool embedded within the school’s cultural and social fabric.
The facility forms part of the broader Joan Montgomery Centre (JMC) and includes configurable sports courts, extensive spectator seating, and a comprehensive suite of aquatic amenities. Together, these spaces support a wide range of physical education programs while reinforcing the school’s commitment to holistic student development.
Klay supplied a selection of tiles across key aquatic surrounds and circulation zones, responding to the complex safety, durability, and performance requirements of a high-use educational environment. Agrob Buchtal’s Area Pro in Sand Beige was specified in a range of formats and slip resistance ratings, allowing surfaces to be tailored to different zones while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. It’s warm, neutral tone contributes to a calm, considered environment that complements the architectural clarity of the building.
Area Pro is offered in a profiled tile known as ‘Grid’, which uniquely performs with both a high slip resistance and easy cleanability; Two very important factors which are often at odds with each other when it comes to concourse pool tiles. Warren & Mahoney selected Area Pro R12v4 Grid for the pool surrounds, as they understand that water on the concourse from splashing is unavoidable. A V rated tile such as Area Pro Grid allows for a level of water displacement without comprising slip resistance. Refer to our article Demystifying Slip Resistance for further information on V ratings.
In supporting areas, Agrob Buchtal’s Plural range was used to reinforce both function and design intent. Plural Neutral 10 Active White provides a clean, refined finish within adjacent spaces, while Plural Light Sand was selected for the dive tower, offering durability and visual continuity with the surrounding aquatic environment.
The versatility of the Area Pro range was central to its specification. With multiple formats and slip ratings available, the range enabled a precise response to wet decks, walkways, and transition zones, ensuring compliance with safety standards while delivering visual consistency throughout the facility.
All selected Agrob Buchtal tiles feature Hytect surface technology, making them well suited to high-demand aquatic environments. This innovative finish enhances hygiene by inhibiting bacteria and mould growth, while also improving cleanability and reducing long-term maintenance requirements. By balancing slip resistance with ease of upkeep, Hytect eliminates the need to compromise between safety and operational efficiency.
Klay worked closely with Warren and Mahoney and the wider project team to deliver a surface solution that aligns with the architectural vision while meeting the rigorous demands of a contemporary aquatic facility. The result is a durable, refined environment that supports movement, learning, and wellbeing, and demonstrates the value of thoughtful material selection in educational infrastructure.
