The University of Huddersfield’s Health and Wellbeing Academy is an exciting initiative dedicated to enhancing community health through integrated clinical services, applied research, and workforce development. Operating from the Queensgate campus and via a mobile clinic, the Academy offers accessible health services, including health checks and wellbeing programmes. The Academy also plays a crucial role in training future healthcare professionals and collaborates with various health and care organisations to deliver impactful, real-world solutions.
CHALLENGE
The University of Huddersfield’s Health and Wellbeing Academy required a ceiling solution that could meet a unique and demanding set of requirements. With the Academy providing vital health services and training future healthcare professionals, accessibility within circulation spaces was a key priority to support the movement of patients, staff, and students. However, maintaining excellent acoustic performance was equally important to ensure a comfortable environment for both patient care and effective learning.
In addition to accessibility and acoustics, the project called for a durable ceiling system capable of withstanding regular maintenance. Certain areas of the Academy also presented a specific challenge as spaces with higher moisture content required a ceiling solution that could ensure resilience against humidity and to maintain performance over time.
Balancing all of these needs required a carefully considered, high-performing ceiling solution that could support the Academy’s clinical, research, and educational missions.
SOLUTION
To meet the Academy’s requirements for accessibility, acoustic performance, durability, and moisture resistance, Zentia provided a comprehensive ceiling solution centred around its Prestige range of ceiling tiles. The Prestige family offers 95% Humidity Resistance (RH) along with an impressive sound attenuation rating of 33dB and good sound absorption to create a perfectly balanced acoustic performance, making it perfect for the wellbeing centre.
Prestige SL2 planks were specified for the circulation areas, offering an ideal combination of durability and superior acoustic control. These tiles were complemented by Gridline Aluminium Transitions, ensuring a clean, accessible finish across the ceiling system. This made it perfect for a high-traffic healthcare and educational environment where maintenance access is essential.
To address the need for moisture resistance in areas with higher humidity levels, Hydrabloc tiles were used, providing long-term protection against moisture ingress and 100% humidity resistance, all without compromising on acoustic performance or aesthetics. The ceiling tiles were delivered in March 2023 and, following a carefully phased installation programme, were successfully installed in October 2024.
Further strengthening the project’s sustainability credentials, 11 bulk bags of recycled materials were returned by installer Sparta Systems. As members of Zentia’s Pinnacle Partnership scheme, Sparta Systems had exclusive access to Zentia’s off-cut recycling programme. This initiative enabled them to recycle ceiling tile off-cuts efficiently, reducing construction waste and supporting the University’s wider commitment to environmental responsibility.
Through this tailored solution, Zentia helped the University of Huddersfield’s Health and Wellbeing Academy create a welcoming, sustainable, and future-proofed environment that promotes wellbeing and supports the next generation of healthcare professionals.