Stretched-skin ceiling
A stretched-skin ceiling (or stretch ceiling) is a form of suspended ceiling that consists of a thin membrane stretched across a frame that runs around the perimeter of the ceiling. They are typically lightweight and relatively easy to install and can span large areas.
Stretched-skin ceilings are used in exhibition spaces, swimming pools, bars, restaurants, offices and so on. They can be used as decorative elements, to provide shading, to conceal services, as a translucent element of a lighting system, or in the form of small panels or even walls.
The fabric membrane is commonly a PVC coated polyester which can be supplied in a wide range of colours, or can be printed with images. More rigid materials such as metal mesh may also be used. Where a stretched-skin ceiling includes a thermoplastic membrane – such as an acrylic, it may be limited in size by the building regulations.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Campaigning for Edinburgh: the Cockburn Association 1875-2049
The role of the civic voice in protecting character. Book review.
CIOB photography competition is open for entries.
ECA Edmundson apprentice of the year award
Finalists announced.
Major new study exposes serious knowledge gaps.
Generating energy from internal light as well as sunshine.
ECA welcomes plans to strengthen subcontractor quality control.
Combining mid-career qualifications with experience broadens career opportunities.
Why being a mentor can help your career.
Channel 4 broadcaster to host 125th anniversary ceremony.
Listed structures on the rail network
Heritage interests and operational requirements must be balanced.
Historic England publishes research into embodied carbon when retrofitting traditional buildings.
New Prime Minister delivers on ECA call for cut in electricity costs.