8 Exhibition St

There is an inherent order to a grid. Repeated lines, measured proportions and a clear sense of structure. At GPT’s Level 17 Spec Suite at 8 Exhibition Street, Hot Black takes that familiar geometry and gives it depth, turning the ceiling into a defining architectural element within the space.

‍

The Apollo Timber Open Cell system extends across the communal kitchen and breakout area, creating a strong visual plane above the lighter, more restrained interior below. At 238mm high, the open cell has a substantial three-dimensional presence, with each 597.5mm x 597.5mm cell forming part of a precisely repeated composition. Rather than simply finishing the ceiling, the system gives the space its own sense of scale and rhythm.

‍

Finished in Emerald Victorian Ash Truescale, the open cell introduces the visual character of timber overhead. The finish works naturally with the timber flooring and furniture, while the depth of the grid creates changing lines of shadow and perspective depending on where it is viewed from.

‍

From directly below, the geometry feels ordered and structured. Viewed across the room, the individual cells begin to merge into a continuous timber canopy.

That depth becomes particularly important within the open-plan setting. The ceiling establishes a clear architectural zone above the kitchen and breakout areas without relying on walls or physical separation. It gives the communal space a stronger sense of identity while maintaining the openness and connection of the wider interior.

‍

Acoustic performance is integrated directly into the system through 16mm lids featuring KP3/32/10 perforation and K100 Black acoustic backing. Concealed within the open cell composition, these elements allow acoustic functionality to become part of the architectural solution rather than something visually separate from it. The dark backing also recedes within the depth of the grid, allowing the Emerald Victorian Ash Truescale finish and strong cellular geometry to remain visually dominant.

‍

The installation itself spans approximately 6000mm x 5405mm, creating a concentrated ceiling feature with enough scale to command the room without overwhelming it. But it is the balance between repetition and materiality that gives this ceiling its character. The open cell format is disciplined and precise, yet the timber finish brings a softer quality to the geometry. Light, shadow and perspective continually change the way the grid is read, adding visual interest without introducing unnecessary complexity.