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UniCote LUX merges steel strength with natural aesthetics, offering architects enhanced design flexibility and durability through advanced finishes like Weathered Iron and Ashwood.
The unique LUX range from UniCote is transforming how builders and architects approach material choices by integrating robust steel properties with the visual appeal of natural textures. In the architectural materials market, UniCote LUX stands out by combining steel’s durability with attractive, tactile finishes. Thanks to advanced coil coating technology, UniCote LUX offers expanded creative freedom, with textured and patterned surfaces that exceed traditional material constraints. “UniCote LUX was meticulously crafted with premium quality in focus, ensuring resilience against the corrosive elements prevalent along Australia’s coastline,” explains James Gregory, UniCote’s general manager – growth and marketing.
UniCote LUX is unique to the Australian market, providing unparalleled steel finishes unmatched by any other product in the country, thanks to its advanced technology.
UniCote LUX is unique to the Australian market, providing unparalleled steel finishes unmatched by any other product in the country, thanks to its advanced technology. These surfaces are not only visually appealing but also exceptionally durable and functional, showcasing what is achievable with pre-painted steel. “Incorporating an aluminium, zinc and magnesium metallic coated (AM150) steel substrate, it offers exceptional durability,” Gregory says. “Moreover, it features a top-tier PVDF paint system, guaranteeing enduring colourfastness even in the harsh UV of the Australian sun.”
The LUX collection is specifically designed to meet diverse architectural demands. The Weathered Iron and Corten Red finishes, for example, mimic the look of naturally rusted metal without the maintenance typically required by such materials. “The standout feature of UniCote LUX that often receives the most interest is its realistic finishes, created by up to five layers of PVDF paint applied to its premium steel base,” says Gregory. “These realistic and textured finishes lend a premium feel to any design. However, it’s the flexibility of design with steel that not only allows for greater creative flair but also provides a cost-effective solution with an outstanding warranty.” These finishes are perfect for projects seeking an industrial aesthetic combined with durable, long-lasting materials and have been effectively utilised in both new builds and renovations.
A prime example of the product’s application in challenging architectural scenarios is the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre in Melbourne. The centre makes a striking statement with its facade spanning 165 metres. The design team initially wanted the look of real Corten but faced significant challenges in adhering it to high-performance insulated panels. Additionally, real Corten was unsuitable due to its tendency to bleed rust, which could lead to unattractive stains and maintenance issues. UniCote LUX Weathered Iron provided the perfect solution, seamlessly integrating with high-performance insulated and fire-rated panels and, additionally, came with a 25-year warranty.
The Ashwood finish reproduces timber’s intricate graining, providing a warm, inviting touch that is highly sought-after in both residential and commercial settings. Demonstrated at the Peter Teakle Wines Cellar Door, this finish shows that UniCote LUX can meet stringent building standards without sacrificing style, proving essential in environments where both durability and fire resistance are required. For an apartment complex in Mt Buller, Victoria, the golden honey tones of the Maple finish so resemble timber that the apartment’s designers had to be reassured during an inspection that it was steel and not timber. “When the designers came in to check on the project in the middle of the installation, they expressed to the installers that steel was specified not timber,” Gregory explains. “To their surprise, the installers told them that it was steel.”
Additional finishes like Midnight Matt and Metal Stone push the boundaries of design by offering unique textural and visual experiences. Midnight Matt, applied in the Wamuran Residence in Queensland, provides a sophisticated, deep black matte finish that is perfect for creating stark, eye-catching visual contrasts in modern designs. As an alternative to concrete blocks, Metal Stone offers the appearance of raw concrete for a private residence in Melbourne, facilitating a minimalist, urban aesthetic.
Moreover, the Saffiano and Spectrum finishes introduce distinctive styles to architectural projects. Saffiano, with its textured diagonal lines, catches light beautifully, making it ideal for feature walls and facades that aim to stand out. Spectrum uses varied line patterns to influence light reflection, adding a dynamic element to both interiors and exteriors.
The effectiveness and adaptability of the UniCote LUX range are clearly demonstrated in The Latrobe Valley GovHub project. Instead of using real timber, UniCote LUX Ashwood was chosen for the facade, soffits and columns throughout the build due to its long-lasting and realistic look, minimal maintenance requirements given the complexity of the facade design, and the cost-effectiveness of the product. “UniCote LUX masterfully combines aesthetics with performance,” says Gregory. “It offers striking finishes built to withstand corrosive environments. Its standout feature is the design freedom it provides, allowing the replication of materials like timber, Corten, zinc and stone without their usual drawbacks.”
UniCote LUX not only enhances visual spaces but also supports sustainable building practices by offering long-lasting durability that reduces the need for frequent replacements and maintenance. By utilising materials and processes that emphasise energy efficiency and minimise waste, the product advocates for environmentally responsible architecture. As the building industry explores new design possibilities, UniCote LUX remains at the forefront of material innovation. Its combination of design versatility and structural resilience opens up new avenues for creative and practical architectural solutions.
