Bespoke aluminium ceiling panels at Heathrow luxury retail store
Mesh Architects: “The installation is very impressive.”
Working with Gooding Aluminium, Mesh Architects delivered a striking suspended ceiling for a luxury retail outlet in Heathrow Terminal 2. The design brief was clear: a lightweight, perforated aluminium ceiling panel system to work around tight spatial constraints.
Ian Smith at Mesh Architects explained: “We worked closely with Gooding Aluminium to design each ceiling panel and a bespoke suspension system.” The requirement was a precision-engineered installation with zero tolerance to align perfectly with light tracks and perimeter joints. “Gooding Aluminium provided invaluable assistance when it came to designing the ceiling and the finished installation is very impressive,” added Smith.
GA spokesperson Tessa Gooding said: “We enjoyed working closely with Mesh Architects to provide this expert fitting solution for a client who values quality design.”
Project overview
- Project: New luxury retail store, Terminal 2, Heathrow Airport
- Architect: Mesh Architects, Leeds
- Product: Perforated aluminium ceiling panels (GA CP2), adapted for shop space and fitting areas
- Material: Perforated aluminium, Pattern GA P1607
- Finish: Polyester powder coated to RAL 9010 (pure white)
- Modifications:
- Lift-on / lift-off hanging brackets for overhead access
- Cut-outs for sprinklers, Wi-Fi access points, CCTV domes, alarm sounders, downlights and speakers
- Curved edges for perimeter panels around a circular structural column, with additional hanging brackets
- Support brackets for panels positioned next to walls.
Why perforated aluminium ceiling panels?
Perforated aluminium ceilings offer several advantages in high-end retail architecture and Heathrow installations:
- Lightweight profiles simplify installation and reduce load on supporting structure.
- Acoustic control is enhanced by perforations, helping to manage echo in busy public spaces.
- Easy access to above-ceiling systems is supported by clever bracket design.
- Aesthetic quality with a clean, powder‑coat finish that blends seamlessly with modern interiors.
GA’s 5 Star Fabrication Service
Gooding Aluminium’s 5‑Star Processing Service delivers made-to-measure aluminium ceiling panels with high accuracy and speed. Panels are produced from architectural-grade sheet, in plain or perforated formats, and finished in one of the following:
- Mill (untreated aluminium)
- Natural anodised
- Powder coated (RAL colours)
- Satin brushed
To specify or request free samples: use GA’s online Build a Spec / Get Free Samples tool.
Panels such as GA CP1–CP4 can be tailored to project needs. Samples show mill finish by default, with options for powder coat or anodised upgrades.
The bespoke ceiling solution
Suspended ceilings in complex locations such as airports must meet stringent criteria: precision fitting, easy maintenance access and integration with MEP services. GA and Mesh Architects achieved this by:
- Zero‑tolerance suspension: bespoke brackets secure the ceiling panels to within millimetre accuracy, ensuring alignment with lighting, HVAC and fire safety systems.
- Panel access: the lift-on/lift-off design allows maintenance teams to remove individual panels quickly for inspection or repairs.
- Full service integration: precut apertures accommodate sprinklers, Wi‑Fi hotspots and security systems seamlessly for a clean finish.
- Curved-edge panels: bespoke curved panels ensure a polished transition around structural columns, matched by flush-fitting trim elements.
- Wall-edge support: additional brackets provide firm support where panels meet perimeter walls, maintaining clean joints without sag or misalignment.
Specification and installation
GA’s Technical Data & Characteristics confirm adherence to standards such as BS EN 485/515/573 for aluminium sheet and BS EN 755/515/573 for extrusions. The fabrication team selected suitable alloy grades—1050A, 5005 and 6063—to balance formability, finish and durability.
Suspended panels include pre-drilled suspension holes, matched to the bespoke bracket system. Installers fix panels to the overhead framework, then inspect and adjust alignment during installation. Once aligned, the ceiling presents a seamless, uninterrupted surface above the retail space.
Why powder-coat RAL 9010?
A white powder-coated finish was chosen for its crisp, contemporary appearance and ability to complement luxury interiors. The coating:
- Offers durability and resistance to knocks and abrasion—ideal for busy retail spaces.
- Is solvent-free and environmentally friendly due to the fusion-bonded process.
- Covers panel edges and cut-outs for a clean, maintenance-friendly finish.
Maintenance and longevity
To maintain the premium look of the white ceiling panels:
- Dust and light soil can be removed using a soft cloth with mild detergent
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that may damage the powder-coat finish
- For anodised or powder-coated panels, guard against shade variation over time by keeping in consistent light conditions
- Maintenance access panels simplify above-ceiling checks without needing major works.
Application beyond Heathrow
GA’s bespoke ceiling panels are ideal for a wide range of retail and commercial interiors:
- High‑end shops and boutiques
- Showrooms and gallery spaces
- Airport lounges and travel hubs
- Hotel lobbies and hospitality venues
- Corporate interiors and office suites.
The combination of lightweight aluminium, perforated acoustic control, joinery precision and maintenance-friendly access makes them a strong choice worldwide.
Project Takeaway
Mesh Architects and Gooding Aluminium have demonstrated how precision-engineered perforated aluminium ceiling systems can solve complex requirements on busy projects such as Heathrow Terminal 2. From L-shaped cut-outs to accessibility brackets and powder-coat finishes, every stage – from specification to installation – has been tailored to exacting standards.
If you are planning a retail refurbishment, airport interior or hospitality fit-out, and want a refined yet functional ceiling solution, explore the full range of aluminium ceiling panels from Gooding Aluminium.