SURFACE DESIGN SHOW 2018

I was invited last week to the annual Surface Design show by Treniq. In case you’re not familiar with Treniq, it’s an online platform where interior designers and architects source luxury interior products directly from the international sellers, at trade prices. I had such a wonderful time at the Surface Design Show that I though it’s worth sharing few highlights with you on the blog.Just to give you some background, the Surface Design Show is the only event in the UK that focuses solely on interior and exterior surfaces. It’s the perfect place to find new and innovative surface solutions and products for designers and architects.
There were definitely few common themes floating around this year. Terrazzo is everywhere and I’m still seeing a lot of raw surfaces and texturing at the moment. There were some more unusual designs on display too, like 3D laminate, tiles made of paper and composite made of mushroom. I actually think that 2018 is going to be all about embracing the imperfections. Dyed marble was one those things that was absolutely fascinating to see in person. Reclaimed wood is also becoming very popular in domestic and commercial interiors. It really seems that eco friendly interiors are the future and the best part is that the furniture of the future is going to look stylish too.


There were so many lovely stands at the show but the following brands really caught my eye this time..


1. Dyed marble by SILO STUDIO 


You know how much I love marble (although due to it’s porous nature I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with it at the moment) which is why this dyed marble by Silo Studio caught my eye the minute I walked in. The blocks look striking close up and I can see how this type of marble would work wonderfully in luxury commercial installations. The marble is dyed by hand which means that each piece will be authentic and unique. 

2. One piece wall murals by VISTA DIGITAL

Vista digital create bespoke wall murals that are both durable and washable. They do the installation for you and the best part is that everything is done in one piece (you won’t see any awkward seams anywhere). So if you have ever wanted to print that old holiday photo and make a feature wall out of it in your living room, well now you can!

3. Architectural film by DAVID CLOUTING

Architectural film allows refurbishment projects to be looked at in a new light by offering a large range of finishes. This marble effect film can be used even in bathrooms over tiles. It’s the perfect self-adhesive material for any room renovation. 

4. PINTARK BY LOCO DESIGN

Pintark by Loco Designs was one of those stands that you could not pass without taking a closer look. Specialising in advances surface treatment and crafted material application, Pintark offers solutions from standard products and in-house patterns to more luxurious commissioned works. In fact, they are currently working on a luxury installment for a 7 star hotel in Dubai. Can’t say that I’m surprised one bit. 

5. Engineered Wood Flooring by V4WOODFLOORING

V4 is a family run business based in the South of England. They manufacture new and innovative flooring both for the UK and international markets. V4 wood is sourced from well managed and sustainable purpose farmed forests. This means that only matured trees are selected for harvest. Also, V4 will only produce responsibly sourced timber.

6. LITHOS DESIGN 

Lithos Design is the Italian manufacturer of modular feature walls and flooring made of natural stone and marble. They use natural thinking philosophy to create healthier and safer places. Natural stones are not inflammable, they are very resistant to bacteria and fungi and also improve the acoustic quality of any setting. Also, who doesn’t love a beautiful slab of marble? It looks absolutely stunning and engraved marble has got to be one of my new personal favourite surfaces out there at the moment.

So that’s it! I had an amazing time and it was lovely to speak to so many amazing companies about their new innovative products. If you’re planning to visit the Surface Design Show (which I absolutely recommend!) there’s one big tip that I would give you. There are so many stands at the event that it’s virtually impossible to see and talk to them all unless you’re there for days. So take a look at the show guide beforehand and make sure you at least visit the brands that you really want to see. I really wish I would have had more time there but there’s always next year.

* This post is in collaboration with Treniq.