The Brief
The mission for us at Fusion Surfaces was to enhance the aesthetic calibre of a Fountain Street office building’s interior across five floors, targeting the lifts and toilet facilities. These areas, previously uninspiring and outdated, required a transformation that would complement the wider refurbishment, bringing a fresh and modern feel to the space without a substantial financial outlay. We were appointed by our long-standing client, Cubic Works, who brought the project to us to see how we could help.
The Consultation
The lifts and communal areas needed an upgrade that matched the sophisticated overhaul of the office space, which would attract and impress current and future tenants. As with many fit-out projects, we faced budget and time constraints, something we are no stranger to. It was imperative to deliver a premium result without the premium time and expense usually associated with traditional refurbishments.
After consulting with Cubic Works, it became immediately apparent that vinyl wrapping was the best path forward to achieve the objectives within the brief. This approach promised minimal disruption, swift turnaround, and significant cost savings, while also offering a multitude of design options to achieve the desired high-end look.
The Transformation
At the outset, the lifts presented a cold, stainless steel appearance, which, while functional, were less than inspiring. The communal areas and toilet facilities also sported a tired wood effect, far from the modernisation that Cubic Works were aiming for in their refurbishment. Originally, a 3M material was put forward as the material of choice, and we were tasked with bringing the cost down without sacrificing any of the elements that we would expect from a material, such as Class B Fire Rating, etc. With sleek designs chosen from the LX Hausys Benif range, we were ready to begin planning the execution of the overall project.
The Process
Something we have come to enjoy about working with Cubic Works is their forward planning of projects. We received our programme of works well in advance of this project and were able to plan the material and labour accordingly. Initially, we completed the bathroom refurbishments, phased perfectly to align with Cubic Works’ overall program, evolving from outdated to cutting-edge with a sophisticated black oak finish. We allocated two days in both phases to complete the wrapping of a total of 25 doors and 30 IPS panels and frames. With a skilled team of four installers, the lift doors and interiors across all five floors were wrapped within a day, showcasing a remarkable dark wood and metallic brown effect that redefined the spaces.
The Outcome
The impact was immediate and striking. Lifts that were once stainless steel and nondescript now command attention with a bespoke and luxurious appeal. The toilets and communal doors were given a new identity that aligned with the building’s refreshed character. Using architectural film meant that vinyl wrapping not only delivered visual excellence but also introduced a sustainable angle to the renovation, with some recyclable materials and a clean, fume-free process.
Client Advantages
Our client, Cubic Works, experienced multiple benefits from this project. The lifts, in particular, were transformed from a basic necessity into a statement that reflects the clientele that the office building is home to. With each lift boasting its own unique design, the building now offers a tailored experience to its tenants. Time efficiency was another significant gain; what could have taken weeks was accomplished in a day, without compromising quality or availability of materials. As a bonus to our client (and planet Earth), the environmentally friendly nature of the process and the avoidance of waste reinforced the commitment to sustainable practice.
Conclusion
The team at Fusion have once again demonstrated that with vinyl wrapping, the possibilities for interior transformation are vast. This case study serves as a testament to the power of architectural film to revolutionise a space both visually and functionally.
Whilst office refurbishments are becoming more commonplace now to attract tenants back to inviting spaces, it can be more cost-effective and time-efficient than it would be by going down the traditional refurbishment route. Imagine your space transformed. Join us in pioneering office refurbishments that invite, inspire, and innovate.
Get in touch today for a free quote on your project by emailing us at hello@fusion-surfaces.co.uk
