FORMICA OPENS A NEW DIMENSION IN SURFACE MATERIALS AT ARCHITECT’25 WITH INNOVATIONS AND DESIGNS THAT CATER THE NEEDS OF MODERN DESIGN
TEXT: NATHATAI TANGCHADAKORN
PHOTO: KETSIREE WONGWAN
(For Thai, press here)
At Architect’25, Formica, the premium surface material brand, returns with a refined presentation that brings together a variety of textures within a single, cohesive environment. Each element has been thoughtfully composed in measured proportions, allowing the overall installation to read as a seamless and integrated whole. As in previous years, the booth is instantly recognizable by the brand’s signature white ‘F’ logo set against a New Burgundy backdrop – a visual identity that has become emblematic of Formica’s presence.
From the exterior, the booth is defined by two primary architectural components: an elevated frame that commands attention from a distance, and a colonnade of slender vertical supports beneath it. These columns serve both structural and spatial functions, bearing the weight of the frame above while delineating the boundaries of the booth. This thoughtful arrangement prevents circulation from becoming chaotic as visitors approach from multiple directions, while maintaining a sense of visual permeability and openness.
Upon closer inspection, these columns reveal a more nuanced material narrative. Though they initially appear simply to match the New Burgundy of the overhead frame, they are in fact clad in FENIX. Here, Formica subtly shifts the shades of FENIX around the perimeter of the booth, introducing a gentle dynamism that animates the structure. This subtle color transition also invites designers to interact with the material’s varied finishes even before stepping inside the booth. At the same time, the color palette is carefully coordinated, with thoughtfully paired hues that flow seamlessly into the interior, where the walls are finished in the rich, muted tone of Green Slate.
Just beyond the reception counter, visitors are free to explore the booth by turning either left or right. A highlight not to be missed is the DecoMetal® by Homapal feature wall. Tucked into a modest corner, this display debuts 19 newly designed metallic finishes, unveiled for the first time at this event. DecoMetal® by Homapal is a collection of metal-surfaced laminates designed and manufactured by HOMAPAL in Germany, offering a striking array of lustrous textures and colors. These shimmering surfaces bring a bold, sophisticated energy to the booth’s interior atmosphere.
The furniture presentation also continues to impress with its thoughtful attention to detail. At the center of the booth, three counters showcase different surface materials tailored to specific applications. These include the innovative FENIX® from Italy, known for its ultra-matte, low-reflective surface with a soft-touch feel and fingerprint resistance, and TUET, which stands out for its exceptionally deep and dimensional texture. Surrounding this central zone are displays of finished products including blank tops, cabinet fronts, and doors crafted using Formica’s Bonded service. This offering allows customers to select laminates from the Formica catalog and have them pre-fabricated into countertops, kitchen surfaces, or cabinet doors directly from the factory. This approach minimizes the risk of imperfections that can result from on-site installation by inexperienced craftsmen and significantly shortens production time.
Formica’s surface laminates have been continuously developed to meet the evolving demands of contemporary living, alongside innovations from other brands within the same global network. While the product range continues to expand, the booth at this year’s Architect’25 impresses with its ability to bring these varied materials together in a thoughtfully curated and unified space. Discover new inspiration for your next design project at the Formica booth at Architect’25.
