Overlooking the Vale of Clwyd and Snowdonia, a popular spirituality centre’s retreat rooms were being redesigned to reflect the evolving needs of the space. However, with its categorisation as a Grade II listed building as well as a Welsh Historical Monument, careful consideration and sensitivity were needed in the approach to the design process.

The entire centre, including its buildings and landscape, is protected as a Grade II listed building. As part of the redesign process, it was imperative­ that the re-designed interiors maintained their historical legacy as well as ensured their longevity. Vtec’s MicroSlat – a cost-effective modular slatted system was chosen for its timeless look, high-quality finish, and respect for the heritage of the space.

BLENDING THEIR METHOD TO SUIT YOUR UNIQUE REQUIREMENTS
The key feature of the redesigned retreat areas is the captivating ceiling design, symbolic of the intentions of the space’s environment. Their Technical Specialists and the Project Manager for the project supported their clients to guide them through the high level of detailing that was involved, particularly because of the complexities and size of the design. During the consultation stages, they supported the specification team and worked through several of their concerns:

Responsive technical solutions to make the selected system work in this unique space
Nimbleness and agility as the project evolved through the design stages
Working with budget constraints, the Vtec Technical Team value-engineered the project to achieve a high-performing design that did not compromise the needed aesthetic output.

With the unusual ceiling style inevitably requiring a degree of tolerance, their client’s preference was to utilise modular panels, that they could adapt on-site accordingly. MicroSlat panels were designed to meet these flexible requirements. As a modular wood slat panel system, it was the ideal choice for its cost-effective finishing options, adaptability to shape and size on-site, and rapid installation.

WHAT WERE THE FINAL SPECIFICATION DETAILS FOR THIS PLATEAU PYRAMID CEILING?
- MicroSlat 70-50 panel styles were chosen, with 70mm wide slats.
- The faces of the slats were finished in Crown Cut Oak Veneer with a Clear Class 0 Lacquer
- The premium acoustic backing chosen was Guadeloupe Grey
- Both the finishing in Oak along with the smoky grey of the acoustic backing acted as a stunning neutral backdrop to the space
- The slats were also FSC® Certified, the world’s most trusted sustainable forest management solution.

HOW DID VTEC MAKE A UNIQUE CEILING IN A GRADE II LISTED BUILDING EASY TO INSTALL?
- Based on the drawings provided, their Technical Teams created an easy-to-understand guide and installation framework.
- This layout included the number of panels required calculations, areas of the ceiling as well as what off-cuts would be produced to optimise total usage, minimising unnecessary wastage.
- Matching capping pieces and trims were also provided to ensure a seamless look
- As part of their typical attention to detail, the Production Team at Vtec also sourced RAL colour-coordinated screws to blend in with the premium acoustic backing in Guadeloupe Grey.
- Single finishing strips were also supplied to ensure seamless continuity of the design for specific details.
- Capping pieces were also used to finish off the cut ends of the panels and the hip details.

As the needs of this thriving retreat centre have evolved over time, so too was the interior of the environment. As usual, Vtec welcomed the opportunity to guide the design and installation teams to create a stunning space that echoes its historic past at the same time as looking to its future. With agile project internal management and responsible manufacturing, the complexities of the ceiling design were easily achieved.

Evoking the dramatic shapes of the beautiful North Wales mountains, these captivating ceilings draw the occupant further into a connection with the physical surroundings, creating long-lasting tangible experiences.