Project:
Spanda Sculpture
Location:
Elizabeth Quay, Perth, Western Australia
Completion:
2016
Architect:
Christian de Vietri
Builder/Contractor:
Adam Mitchell
Engineer:
ShapeShift Technologies
Structure Height:
29 metres
Coating System:
A&I Coatings Vitreflon 700
Spanda is one of Perth’s most recognisable public artworks and a defining feature of the Elizabeth Quay waterfront precinct. Designed by artist Christian de Vietri, the 29-metre-high sculpture symbolises interconnectedness between the city, the Swan River, and the people who experience the space.
The sculptural form consists of six nested white arches that expand exponentially along a central axis, creating a fluid and dynamic visual expression. As a landmark public structure exposed to Perth’s harsh coastal environment, the project required a coating system capable of delivering exceptional durability, long-term colour retention, and a flawless architectural finish.
To achieve this, the sculpture was protected using A&I Coatings’ Vitreflon 700, professionally applied by ShapeShift Technologies.
A&I Coatings’ Vitreflon 700 is a premium two-pack FEVE fluoropolymer coating designed for projects requiring exceptional durability and long-term aesthetic performance.
The sculpture was engineered using ShapeShift Technologies’ ShapeShell™ RT material, allowing each arch to be fabricated as a self-supporting monocoque shell without internal framing. This innovative approach enabled the seamless, slender appearance central to the artist’s vision.
For the iconic Spanda sculpture, Vitreflon 700 provided the ideal combination of aesthetics, durability, and long-term asset protection.
ShapeShift Technologies was engaged to deliver the project from design through to installation, including engineering, manufacturing, coating application, and final certification. The company applied A&I Coatings’ Vitreflon 700 system to achieve the durable, high-quality architectural finish required for this iconic public artwork.
ShapeShift Technologies applied A&I Coatings’ Vitreflon 700 FEVE fluoropolymer topcoat to the external surfaces of the six arches forming the Spanda sculpture. The coating was selected to provide a premium white architectural finish with outstanding UV resistance, long-term colour retention, and reduced maintenance requirements in Perth’s exposed coastal environment.
The Spanda sculpture presented several coating challenges due to its prominent waterfront location, exposure to Perth’s harsh coastal environment, and large-scale architectural form. At 29 metres high, the structure required a coating system capable of delivering a consistent, high-quality finish across complex curved surfaces while providing long-term protection against UV exposure and weathering. As a landmark public artwork, the coating also needed to meet demanding aesthetic standards and minimise future maintenance requirements.
A&I Coatings’ Vitreflon 700 FEVE fluoropolymer topcoat successfully met these requirements, providing a durable architectural finish with outstanding colour and gloss retention, UV resistance, and long-term weathering performance. The result is a striking public landmark that continues to maintain its bright white appearance while benefiting from reduced maintenance and enhanced asset longevity.
The Pakenham Station redevelopment exemplifies the successful integration of advanced digital fabrication techniques in public infrastructure projects. A&I
Coatings, working alongside ShapeShift, delivered an ultra-high-performance coating for the ShapeShell™ RT panels, contributing to a sustainable,
efficient, and architecturally distinctive station that serves as a model for future infrastructure projects.
© 2026 A&I Coatings | Web Design by Quikclicks