At ArtA’A, the arts centre in Aalter, walls needed to do more than define the space. They had to withstand intensive public use, support the acoustic comfort of the building and contribute to a strong architectural identity.
Under the direction of BASIL Architecture, the interior walls were finished with Tusk: a robust decorative technique with a tactile surface and a refined architectural presence. From concrete grey walls to blue sanitary blocks and vivid yellow dressing rooms, each colour was carefully considered in relation to the function and experience of the space.
ArtA’A in Aalter is a place of movement, culture and encounter. The building brings together a library, a music academy and spaces for dance and performance. All within an environment that needed to be both expressive and exceptionally durable.
For the interior walls, BASIL Architecture chose Tusk, a decorative wall finish known for its strength and tactile relief. In a public building where children, students, visitors and instruments move through the spaces every day, the finish offers lasting protection without compromising on atmosphere.
The project was developed with close attention to the specific needs of the building. Relative humidity, acoustic comfort and intensive use all played a role in the material choices. The subtle relief of Tusk adds depth to the walls and helps soften the experience of sound throughout the building.
Colour became a wayfinding tool as well as an architectural gesture. Concrete grey Tusk respects the raw character of the existing structure. Blue Tusk gives the sanitary blocks an immediate and intuitive identity. In the dressing rooms near the dance studios, a vivid yellow finish creates an energetic, immersive space from wall to wall.
Supported by professional technical advice, sample service and on-site assistance from our team, the project was executed by Martlédeco within a demanding timeframe and across almost 5,000 square metres. The result is a cultural centre where technical performance, colour precision and craftsmanship come together in a finish designed to be seen, touched and used.
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