The Brief
Southport Market, a lively food hall featuring culinary delights from twelve traders and a fully stocked feature bar, faced a pressing issue. Despite their relatively new installation, the market’s worktops were succumbing to rust, a consequence of the food hall’s environment. Think spilt drinks and washing up combined with a metal countertop. The challenge was clear: find a lasting solution to the rust problem without causing significant downtime or altering the market’s aesthetic appeal.
The Consultation
Upon consultation, it became evident that the existing metal surfaces were ill-suited for the activities of the food hall. This was our challenge, and after a site visit to discuss the potential options, we were tasked with providing a durable solution to tackle the rust. Our recommendation? 3M DI-NOC architectural film – a material renowned for its hardwearing properties and fortunately, we found a design that closely matched the existing countertops.
The Transformation
The project demanded meticulous preparation. We started by sanding down the rusted areas and treating them with an anti-rust agent. This crucial step ensured a perfect base for the wrapping process. Understanding the needs of the market, we coordinated our installation around their off days, planning to execute the entire project within two working days.
Our team of experienced fitters skilfully applied the 3M DI-NOC film, creating an airtight seal over the problematic surfaces. Visually, the transformation was subtle yet impactful. The chosen metallic pattern was similar to the original countertops, maintaining the market’s industrial look. Practically, the change was exactly what the market needed – the newly wrapped counters were now robust, rust-free, and primed for the market’s lively atmosphere.
The Process
Post-transformation, the market hall had been given a renewed sense of functionality and style. Gone were the signs of wear and tear, replaced by a seamless, hard-wearing surface that could withstand the expected moisture it would be met with on a daily basis. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and we were asked to go back by the council to wrap another countertop as they recruited a new vendor.
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
For Southport Market, the benefits of wrapping the counters using architectural film were numerous. The rapid turnaround meant no loss of business, a crucial factor for a busy food hall. The ease of maintenance and cleaning of the new surfaces was a welcome upgrade. Most importantly, the cost-effective nature of vinyl wrapping provided a solution that was far more economical than a full replacement, without any compromise on quality or aesthetics.
Conclusion
Undertaking this project at Southport Market shows our ability to provide innovative solutions that blend functionality with aesthetics. We turned a challenge into an opportunity, demonstrating that the right materials and expertise can lead to transformations that are both subtle and significant.
Whether it’s enhancing durability or maintaining style, we’re here to transform your space.
Interested in refreshing your space? Contact us today to explore the possibilities: hello@fusion-surfaces.co.uk
