When Ormiston Senior College reached out about a new gym divider curtain, the job looked straightforward on paper, but once we reviewed the site, it was clear this would be one of the most technically challenging installations we’ve taken on.
The ceiling structure, where the curtain track and motor typically need to be fixed, was completely inaccessible from inside the building.
Our team had to approach things differently to complete the installation properly, with a solution engineered from above.
The Challenge: No Way In from the Inside
Unlike most gymnasiums, where structural steel can be accessed using elevated work platforms, Ormiston’s ceiling space was sealed off by architectural design.
There was no safe or practical way to reach the mounting points from inside the building, and altering the gym’s structure wasn’t an option. This meant the curtain system couldn’t be installed using standard methods.
The Solution: Roof-Access Installation, Fully Customised
To make the installation possible, our team designed a solution that allowed all structural and electrical work to be carried out from above. Each day, a section of the gym roof was removed to create access to the ceiling void, allowing us to install the curtain track, anchor points, and motorised system step by step.
Key elements of the solution included:
- A fully customised curtain system built to match the layout, clearances, and performance needs of the space
- A coordinated plan for daily roof access, executed safely and efficiently with the help of Aspec
- Seamless electrical integration of the motorised curtain, in partnership with Mantis Electrical
- Careful navigation around insulation and ceiling framing to ensure long-term durability and system alignment
- A structured project timeline, aligned to the school holiday period, to avoid disruption to students
The complexity of this job wasn’t just about roof access; it was about precision, timing, and getting every detail right in a restricted and high-risk working environment.
The Result: A Reliable Curtain System Built for Everyday Use
The new gym divider curtain system now runs smoothly and sits perfectly within the gym space, allowing Ormiston Senior College to easily divide the hall for classes, training, and events.
Everything was completed within the allocated break period, on time, to spec, and without compromise.
It’s a great example of how our team can adapt to any site, regardless of the access or installation challenges.
We’re really happy with how the curtain installation turned out. It was a professional job from start to finish, with some solid work upfront to get the design approved and ensure it met strength and compliance standards. Gymleader managed the challenges well, including sourcing components from overseas and a tricky installation, and completed everything over the April holidays without disruption. The system is fit for purpose and works exactly as we’d hoped.”
— Steve Lincoln, Property Manager, Ormiston Senior College
Planning a Complex Install? Let’s Make It Work.
We specialise in delivering curtain systems and sports equipment that are tailored to your space, not forced into it.
If you’ve got a project with access restrictions, tight timelines, or tricky logistics, we’d love to discuss how we can help.
