SMALL VICTORY BAKERY

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Sedimentary wall and terrazzo floor

Take a look at the stunning sedimentary-style concrete wall we created for this waterfront bakery in Yaletown, Vancouver, BC! Inspired by the natural layers found in sedimentary rock, this design combines artistry and craftsmanship to create a visually striking and texturally dynamic feature. Located in the heart of Yaletown, this wall reflects the beauty of Vancouver’s coastal surroundings, perfectly complementing the bakery’s inviting atmosphere. Watch as we share the process, from initial concept to the final reveal, showcasing the skill and attention to detail that went into every layer. The terrazzo floor utilizes similar colours to tie in both elements.

colour sample process

To bring this sedimentary-inspired vision to life, the process began with crafting a series of samples to determine the ideal base colour palette. In collaboration with the client, we explored various combinations, focusing on a blue pigment that was blended in different proportions with white and grey cement. This experimentation allowed us to achieve the perfect shades fit with the colour scheme while harmonizing with the bakery's waterfront location. In addition to the pigments, we carefully selected local sand and aggregates, ensuring the raw materials reflected the surrounding environment and minimized the environmental footprint of the project. These local materials not only added a sense of place to the design but also enhanced the texture and depth of the finished wall. Each sample was meticulously evaluated for its colour balance, texture, and how it would integrate with the overall design vision, ultimately culminating in a palette that seamlessly connects the wall to the terrazzo floor.

Scale sedimentary model

Once the owners and designers finalized the colour palette, we moved on to creating detailed scale models. These models played a critical role in refining the project before construction began on the full-sized wall. Acting as a miniature blueprint, the scale models allowed us to test and perfect the layering techniques that would be used to replicate the look of sedimentary rock. This step was invaluable, serving as a "dry run" for the larger installation. Through the scale models, we could experiment with the placement of colours and textures, ensuring each layer complemented the next while maintaining the natural, organic flow that defines sedimentary formations. It also provided an opportunity to troubleshoot potential challenges, fine-tune the application methods, and align with the design vision down to the smallest detail. These scale models not only guided the technical execution but also offered the owners and designers a tangible preview of how their vision would translate into the final product. This collaborative approach ensured everyone involved was aligned, setting the stage for the larger wall to become a true centerpiece of the bakery's design.

Forms built on site

With the vision clearly defined and techniques refined through the scale models, the next step was creating the formwork for the full-scale wall. The formwork is an essential component, acting as the mold that shapes and supports the wall during the concrete pouring and curing process. For this project, the formwork was designed with precision to ensure each layer of concrete reflected the natural striations of sedimentary rock. A unique feature of this formwork was the inclusion of a plexiglass window at the back. This transparent panel served a dual purpose: it allowed us to closely monitor the progress of the pours and ensured that each layer was placed with precision. Working from the bottom up, the team carefully poured and compacted the concrete, watching through the plexiglass to ensure the desired textures and thicknesses were achieved. This innovative approach not only enhanced quality control but also provided an incredible visual of the layering process as it unfolded. The formwork was constructed with straight, clean lines to emphasize the natural beauty of the horizontal layers. It was engineered to withstand the weight of the concrete while allowing for easy disassembly once the wall had fully cured. By integrating both functionality and artistry into the formwork design, we ensured that every step of the process contributed to the stunning final result. This meticulous approach to formwork design and execution was key to transforming raw materials into a statement piece that celebrates both craftsmanship and the natural beauty of sedimentary rock.

patching voids

Because the sedimentary-style concrete wall was created using a dry-pack method, small bugholes and voids naturally formed as air pockets within the layers of concrete. These imperfections were an expected part of the process, as the wall was intentionally not vibrated. Vibrating the layers would have compacted the concrete excessively, creating a flat, uniform look more akin to a layered cake—a result we actively sought to avoid. Instead, our goal was to achieve natural, undulating layers that mimicked the organic formations found in sedimentary rock. Once the wall was fully cast and the formwork removed, we carefully addressed these bugholes and voids using a hand-applied slurry. The slurry was specially formulated with a highly polymer-modified mix to ensure strong adhesion and durability. To maintain the cohesive aesthetic, we tinted the slurry with a blue tone that matched the surrounding layers of the wall. This not only filled the voids but also enhanced the natural appearance of the wall, blending seamlessly with the overall design. The patching process was conducted with precision and care, balancing the need to fill the voids while preserving the subtle textures and contours that give the wall its character. By taking this meticulous approach, we enhanced the wall’s durability and finished appearance without compromising the naturalistic aesthetic that makes it such a standout feature.

Dry polishing

After carefully removing the patch wet from the wall, we transitioned to using dry polishing pads. This method allowed us to precisely control the exposure of the sand and fines embedded in the concrete, accentuating the unique details of each layer. Dry polishing not only brought out the natural variations in texture but also enhanced the overall visual depth of the wall. The process was conducted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the surface retained its organic character while achieving a smooth and polished finish. To create a cohesive design between the wall and the terrazzo floor, we incorporated some of the same aggregate materials in both elements. This thoughtful choice tied the two features together, reinforcing the connection between the vertical and horizontal surfaces. The result was a harmonious interplay of textures and colours, with the polished wall serving as a striking counterpart to the terrazzo floor’s intricate patterns. The dry polishing procedure was the final step in transforming the wall from raw concrete into a functional piece of art. By revealing the inherent beauty of the materials, this process underscored the care and craftsmanship that went into every layer, making the wall a true centerpiece of the bakery’s design.

TIME LAPSE OF THE PROCESS

TERRAZZO FLOORING

Once the wall was cast and polished, our team turned their attention to the terrazzo flooring, a key element in tying the space together. To achieve both functional durability and aesthetic harmony, we incorporated zinc divider strips. These strips not only added visual interest with their clean, metallic lines but also served a practical purpose by providing separation for crack control, ensuring the longevity of the floor. The terrazzo mix was thoughtfully designed to match the first layer of the wall in both aggregate and tone, creating a seamless connection between the vertical and horizontal surfaces. This deliberate coordination reinforced the cohesive design narrative, making the wall and floor feel like natural extensions of each other. To elevate the flooring’s design, we introduced blue stone and recycled glass into the terrazzo mix. The blue stone echoed the wall’s pigment, while the recycled glass added a subtle sparkle that reflected light and brought a touch of modernity to the traditional terrazzo technique. This combination of materials created a surface that was not only visually stunning but also sustainable, aligning with the project’s emphasis on using locally sourced and eco-friendly materials wherever possible. The installation process required precision and artistry, from evenly distributing the aggregate and glass to grinding and polishing the surface to a flawless finish. The result was a terrazzo floor that perfectly complemented the sedimentary-style wall, uniting the space with its balance of natural textures and contemporary details. Together, the wall and floor created a warm, inviting atmosphere that celebrated the coastal surroundings of the Yaletown waterfront bakery.

SMALL VICTORY BAKERY

Blog

Sedimentary wall and terrazzo floor

colour sample process

Scale sedimentary model

Forms built on site

patching voids

Dry polishing

TIME LAPSE OF THE PROCESS

TERRAZZO FLOORING

Services

Resources

SMALL VICTORY BAKERY

Blog

Sedimentary wall and terrazzo floor

colour sample process

Scale sedimentary model

Forms built on site

patching voids

Dry polishing

TIME LAPSE OF THE PROCESS

TERRAZZO FLOORING​

Services

Resources

TERRAZZO FLOORING