Client’s Brief

Modern 21st-century bedroom that remains deeply sympathetic to the property’s historic character. The goal was to create a sanctuary with warm neutral tones and a Scandinavian aesthetic, incorporating "boutique" textures. Key requirements included integrated underfloor heating and a seamless, minimalist finish that would respect the building's heritage.

The Challenge

Working within a Grade II listed building is always a complex task. You cannot alter the structure or exterior without prior approval, which often dictates what is possible for internal finishes. We faced several major obstacles: structural iron pillars, critically low ceiling heights, and un-level surfaces.

The primary dilemma was the subfloor: it was 60mm out of level and extremely uneven. Traditional floorboards or off-the-shelf large-format tiles were impossible to install without significantly raising the floor level, which would have further compromised the already limited ceiling height and clashed with the historic iron pillars. We had to think outside the box to save every millimeter of space.

The Solution

Microcement became the hero of this project. It allowed us to achieve a high-end, boutique look while meeting the strict requirements of a listed building.

Compliance & Heritage Preservation

• Sympathetic Design: We selected microcement textures and warm, earthy tones that complement the original wooden beams and ironwork, rather than competing with them.
• Non-Invasive Technique: The application was non-invasive, preserving the integrity of the original structure.

Why Microcement for this Bedroom?

• Leveling Without Height Loss: Because our microcement is applied in a thin layer (only 2-3 mm), we could resolve the 60mm floor level issue and integrate underfloor heating without "eating" into the room's height — something impossible with traditional timber or stone.
• Seamless Scandinavian Aesthetic: We created a continuous, joint-free surface that wraps around the historic iron pillars perfectly, providing a clean, modern backdrop for the Scandinavian interior.
• Warmth & Durability: Beyond its durability, the microcement works perfectly with the underfloor heating system, retaining and distributing warmth much more efficiently than traditional materials.

The Result

A sophisticated, "boutique-hotel" feel bedroom that respects its 19th-century roots while offering 21st-century comfort. The microcement provided a seamless transition between the historic fabric of the building and the modern lifestyle of our clients.

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