Fireshield® Panels in The Clearing Gothic Pavilion | Garnica Plywood

Garnica is a global leader in the production of innovative and high-quality plywood, working with wood from sustainable and renewable sources to preserve ecological balance. Fireshield® panels from Garnica, supplied in the UK by James Latham, were used to create The Clearing, a Gothic-inspired pavilion at the Folkestone Triennial visitor centre, now a permanent café bar in the Quarter House, Folkestone, England.

The project reimagines a forest clearing in architectural form, producing an immersive and sensory environment where branching, CNC-milled structures are reflected in floor-to-ceiling mirrors to create a cathedral-like expanse. Designed by Ben Allen of Studio Ben Allen, the pavilion emphasizes the intersection of light, sound, and spatial perception, inviting visitors to pause, orient themselves, and engage with the space in a contemplative way.

Garnica Fireshield® panels were selected for their exceptional flame-retardant properties, which remain effective even after machining or sanding. The material was used to construct the pavilion’s intricate branching forms, providing both structural integrity and a warm, tactile surface. Its durability and safety compliance make it suitable for public settings, while the CNC-milled design demonstrates the versatility and creative potential of high-quality poplar plywood.