The curved white sculptural forms of the Roca London Gallery draw their inspiration from erosion patterns found in submerged ocean caves. From external facade to showroom floor, its irregular pre-cast concrete surfaces evoke a quietly contemplative, cocoon-like world.

Designed with Zaha Hadid Architects, the space serves as both an art gallery and a showroom for the Spanish bathroom product manufacturer, Roca.

The complex nature of the interior detailing and the tight, non-uniform spaces created by the visual concept proved a challenge for the building services. Max Fordham worked closely with the architect and the client to deliver functional but beautifully concealed electrical and mechanical systems and acoustic treatments.

The gallery features primarily hard surfaces, that make for naturally sound-reflective, noisy volumes. Incorporating acoustic absorption and control called for particular subtlety. Micro-perforated absorption films are integrated into the gallery's light boxes and noise transmission from the plant room is controlled by an insulated partition wall developed by Max Fordham.