The Association of Interior Specialists (AIS) has awarded SAS International the 2008 Judges’ Award Gold Medal for its bespoke architectural metalwork ceiling in the new LCI Rendevous Casino at Springfield Quay in Glasgow.
The £8m casino, part of the Alea Glasgow development on the banks of the Clyde, was designed by architects Burrows Cave International, with Real Studios working on interior design.
A stunning waveform structure runs through the entrance way of the building, and flows up between the escalators and curves right over on itself within the three storey atrium.
The metal ‘wave’ panels from SAS International are suspended from the ceilings and finished with a bonded printed wood–effect laminate, which blends perfectly with the interior colour scheme. An eye-catching chandelier hangs from the top, and a special opening within the structure means it can be raised or lowered for cleaning and maintenance.
The ceiling curves in a C-Shape through a three storey atrium, resulting in a double sided ceiling. It is installed onto a steel framework with no visible fixings and the ceiling gives an impression of being suspended in mid air.
The AIS Judges commented: “The design concept behind this entry could be described as ‘off the wall’, the solution devised by the entrant could be described as inspired. It’s not a ceiling, it’s not a wall – it is a huge, at first glance free floating, ‘wave’ transcending three floors.”
The wood-effect finish was able to offer the interior designers a more cost effective solution than traditional real timber - to create the ‘wave’ structure out of natural timber would have come at a much larger expense than through the use of metal and SAS International’s manufacturing process. With no delamination issue, SAS wood effect ceilings offer the aesthetic look of a natural wood product on a lighter and more durable material. Maintenance costs that are traditionally associated with a wooden ceiling are removed.
Throughout the rest of the casino, a coloured clip-in SAS150 ceiling was installed. SAS150 hinge down tiles also have the ability to pivot and slide which allows unobstructed access to the ceiling void, facilitating easy access to large areas for maintenance, while greatly limiting the chance of tile damage.
The Alea Glasgow development is home to elegant restaurants, a unique entertainment venue, stylish bars and an ultra-modern casino, all in a stunning riverside setting, enjoying unrivalled panoramic views over the city and its landmarks from East to West. Its unique interior adds to the atmosphere of this exciting leisure development.