Laminam Brings Longevity and Style to ICC Sydney
Michelle Thompson
October 16, 2025
Sitting proudly on Sydney’s Darling Harbour, the International Convention Centre (ICC Sydney) is a landmark that reflects Australia’s commitment to world-class design and sustainability. Designed by Studio Hassell+Populous, this project required materials that could meet very high standards for both aesthetics and performance.
For the ICC’s dramatic soffit, which spans high above Darling Harbour’s bustling precinct, Studio Hassell+Populous needed a surface that would be low-maintenance, withstand the test of time, and contribute to the building’s sustainable design philosophy. Laminam’s Oxide Bianco was selected for its ability to achieve all of these requirements while delivering a modern finish.
Why Laminam Was Specified for ICC Sydney
The soffit’s challenging location — with its significant height and limited accessibility — made it essential to use a product that would not require frequent maintenance, replacement, or upgrades. Laminam’s innovative porcelain panels offered:
Minimal Maintenance: Resistant to staining, fading, and weathering, ensuring long-term performance with very little upkeep.
Longevity: A durable, hardwearing surface designed to last decades, even in high-exposure environments.
Sustainable Design: Laminam’s production process focuses on environmental responsibility, perfectly aligning with Studio Hassell+Populous’ commitment to sustainable architecture.
A Refined Aesthetic: The soft, industrial-inspired tones of Oxide Bianco create a contemporary yet timeless finish, complementing ICC Sydney’s modern façade.
Built to Withstand the Elements
Beyond its appearance, Laminam is engineered to endure Australia’s harshest conditions. At ICC Sydney, the soffit faces constant exposure to salt air from the harbour, UV rays, heavy rain, and dramatic temperature shifts. Where other materials might fade, crack, or deteriorate, Laminam retains its strength and finish year after year. This proven resilience gives architects the confidence that their designs will not only look striking on day one but will continue to perform for decades.
Press play below to watch the Architectural talk about the ICC:
Press play to watch the Architectural talk about the ICC
Laminam is engineered to endure Australia's harshest conditions. At ICC Sydney, the soffit faces constant exposure to salt air from the harbour, UV rays, heavy rain, and dramatic temperature shifts.
A Global Design Perspective
The ICC Sydney project was featured in Laminam’s Architecture Short Talk series — a global documentary initiative showcasing architectural innovation from Seoul to Berlin, Chicago, Milan, and Sydney. In this feature, Glenn Scott discusses how Laminam helped the team meet stringent architectural and sustainability goals, delivering a soffit that not only enhances Darling Harbour’s skyline but also supports a vision for durable, future-proof design.
Laminam: Built for Landmark Projects
The ICC Sydney’s use of Laminam Oxide Bianco highlights why Laminam is trusted by leading architects for large-scale, high-profile projects. Its combination of design flexibility, sustainable credentials, and extreme durability makes Laminam the material of choice for spaces that demand more than just visual impact.
At Studio Porcelain, we’re proud to bring Laminam to the Australian design community, helping architects and designers achieve projects that balance innovation, functionality, and enduring beauty.
Want to see how Laminam can elevate your next project?
Explore our Laminam collection or contact Studio Porcelain for design inspiration and specification support.
