KILN at the Midlands Art Centre puts sustainability in the spotlight

As part of the ‘Making MAC More’ programme, the former café has been re-launched as a destination venue in its own right, its stunning new look proving that ‘style over substance’ has been consigned to the annals of design history.

Under the guidance of 2G Design & Build, with support from Solus, the eatery has been transformed from a casual canteen offering a snack-based menu to a more formal and sophisticated setting where guests can enjoy locally sourced, sustainable produce, served to their table.

Setting the scene for the change in direction, an eye-catching terrazzo-effect hosting stand, composed of large format Attract tiles, greets guests on arrival. The desk’s engineered marble composition augments the restaurant’s ‘green’ credentials while its creamy base, decorated with warm mustard, burnt orange, peach, and charcoal stones, creates a theatrical visual.

The environmentally friendly theme is abundantly evident in the main seating area where tables topped with repurposed terrazzo-style surfaces have been strategically placed to aid accessibility and maximise covers, helping to achieve greater financial stability for the venue.

A rich retro palette of teal and terracotta provides a welcoming ambiance, perfectly complemented by the cerulean tones of Mariana, and dove colouring of Luxury, both sourced from Solus’ Bright range. The 100x100mm tiles fashion an intriguing horizontal pattern on the walls, their simple yet effective design enhancing the poured concrete floor, a nod to the building’s urban heritage.

A delicate umbrella of ivory hued light shades, crafted from recycled paper, provides a unique aerial aesthetic, while large scale monochrome prints reflecting the cultural vibrancy of the Midlands provide an artistic alternative to traditional décor.

Introducing a sense of occasion, a chic curved bar has replaced the cafeteria-style serving counter, allowing the venue to expand its repertoire to include private functions, parties, and events, as well as increasing its ability to cater for evening revellers who are keen to unwind with a drink or a bite to eat. 

A dazzling apron composed of Solus’ Sparken tiles, featuring marble-based engineered stone, has been laid in front of the bar, their speckled appearance and nostalgic palette beautifully enhancing the surrounding space, while a subtle yet stylish ivory wall of crackle-effect Catton tiles from the Vintage range forms the backdrop.

Reflecting on the inspiration behind KILN’s stunning makeover, Designer Aisling Ryan said: “Solus’ tiles played an important role in helping us to meet our brief of composing a relaxed and appealing atmosphere with an emphasis on ethical design.

“Each of the products adds a hint of intrigue to the restaurant’s retro palette, while the composite material content of Sparken and Attract builds on the eco-friendly vibe. The visually impressive hosting stand offers a formal first impression, signalling the move away from a casual canteen-style of service towards a more refined dining experience.”