NEWSWORTHY
MATT FINISHES ON TREND SAYS PG BISON
Matt surfaces continue to grow in popularity . “ If we look at what ’ s driving the matt trend , it ’ s important to remember that trends in design are often expressions of society , a way of identifying and unifying ,” says Jason Wells , Brand and Marketing Manager at PG Bison , manufacturer of decorative wood-based products .
“ Matt-finish cabinetry , with its sophisticated look , is a trend that keeps growing ,” says Wells . “ Matt finishes are not that new , but the technology behind matt surfaces has seen recent developments to improve performance characteristics . Previously , attempts at creating a matt finish often resulted in a chalky or dull finish ( like a blackboard ). In some contexts , this detracted from the envisioned design . However , advances in technology have meant that the matt-look now available is more consistent and sophisticated . These developments have also assisted in producing more durable surfaces , so that marks are less of an issue .
Beyond product developments , there is a trend towards embracing matt for its experiential attributes . “ Matt surfaces don ’ t reflect light in the uniform way high-gloss surfaces do ,” says Wells . “ They tend to scatter light randomly , reducing reflections to negligible levels . This means they ’ re easier on our senses and experienced as calming . They are therefore ideal for creating calm in living and working spaces . Soft matt surfaces also provide a counterpoint to the glare from the many digital devices we tend to be surrounded with in our daily lives , and they echo many natural , untouched materials , which human beings tend to find soothing .”
Wells says that matt products are versatile in that they can be used to introduce much darker colours effectively either as a base or as an accent feature . “ We ’ re seeing designers opting for much darker greys and charcoal colours in a matt finish and accenting it with a wood-grain or stone-finish design ,” he says . “ This is especially popular in kitchens , which have traditionally been designed in lighter colours . While high-gloss kitchens are still very popular , we ’ re seeing more matt in kitchens too . This was evident in the recent Decorex shows , with many of the kitchens on display including MelaWood SupaMatt .”
PG Bison ’ s premium matt product is MelaWood SupaMatt , which adds a touch of elegance to any setting with its silky-smooth look . “ It ’ s available in a range of nine plain colours and two stone-look finishes , so we ’ ve made sure there is something to suit every design style . It has an extremely low reflective surface , which creates a luxurious ultra-matt experience ,” says Wells .
He says that one of the most commonly asked questions about matt cabinets is whether they are more likely to show fingerprints than textured surfaces . “ In our MelaWood SupaMatt range , we ’ ve incorporated leading technology that produces micro-structures on the surface , designed to minimise contact with your fingerprints . This reduces the visibility of normal , day-to-day fingerprint marks . So , as long as your hands aren ’ t greasy , fingerprints are barely visible .” www . pgbison . co . za
DULUX ANNOUNCES COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2023
Dulux colour experts have chosen Wild Wonder – a hue inspired by the warm tones of harvested crops as Dulux Colour of the Year 2023 . Its upbeat glow connects us with nature , creating a sense of energy and positivity . As people search for support , connection , inspiration and balance in the world today , they ’ re diving into the wonders of the natural world to find it . Extensive research conducted by a team of in-house paints , coatings colour experts and international design professionals found hope at the heart of global social , design and consumer trends . “ Dulux Wild Wonder speaks to us in a language we instinctively understand ,” says Heleen van Gent , Creative Director of AkzoNobel ’ s Global Aesthetic Center . “ Nature is what inspires us and makes us feel better in our lives and in our homes . That ’ s why , for the first time in 20 years , our entire colour palette is inspired by the rhythms of nature .” With warm tones of harvested crops , Wild Wonder will create a soothing , harmonious , joyful space bringing in the richness of nature into a space with warm and natural colours . The versatility of the four Dulux ColourFutures™ 2023 complementary palettes will make it easy to choose wall colours for a timeless look that will transform rooms and change the way they feel .
Interior Watch 61