EFFECT: 3D CONCRETE TILES
LOCATION: CITY CENTRE, MANCHESTER, UK
DESIGN: RAWLS / CHAPMAN TAYLOR
Requirements: Leading architects Rawls and Chapman Taylor approached us to help them create a spectacular wall effect for the Arndale Shopping Centre in Manchester. Not only would it catch the attention of those walking past, but it would also provide a close-up design for those riding up the main escalator. In other words, they wanted contemporary drama – something a bit different which would also be durable and indestructible.
Product: Not surprisingly, the hexagonal Kili 3d concrete tiles were the instant choice for the over £10 million shopping mall refurb project. These pre-cast tiles are hand-crafted using GRC (Glass-fibre Reinforced Concrete) technology. In interior design terms, they lend a modernist industrial appeal to any building. The 150 square meters of 3D Kili tiles used for the Rawls project are predominantly white but with random tiles of warm grey shades to add further to the visual interest. The cement tiles are textured and also protrude slightly, making them appear to have ‘movement.’
Results: The result was an entrance to the Hale Place shopping centre that ‘wowed’ all visitors. Not only is the large wall eye-catching 3d concrete tiles and suitable for a contemporary centre (Manchester’s City Centre), but these are fire-retardant and also stain resistant. As a result, the Manchester Arndale Centre’s owners could look forward to having a long-lasting solution, saving them from having to redecorate until well into the future.
