HI-MACS® used to create impressive countertops produced by Solid Fabrications in Belfast and supplied by James Latham.

IDM Properties has renovated and restored one of the most iconic Art Deco buildings in the English capital city, built in the 1930s for the Hoover Company. The former household appliances factory has now been converted into a modern building with 66 luxury homes. After looking for a modern material which would also combine well with the contemporary design pursued by the architects, they opted for Solid Surface HI-MACS® for the furnishings.

IDM Properties has invested substantially in the preservation and restoration of this national building’s historical features. To achieve this, many of the original Art Deco features were retained, including grand staircases with wrought-iron bannisters, mouldings and cornices, terrazzo flooring in the lobby and the original green colour scheme in the hallways. The interior of the luxury apartments cleverly combine contemporary style with modern features like HI-MACS®.

Spacious lounge/dining room and kitchen

The architecture and interior design firm wanted to make the most of the space in the homes. To do this, they decided to make the living space into an open-plan area, where the flowing style and décor would create a special and inviting room.

A central element of the design are the kitchens, and HI-MACS® was used to create the impressive countertops.  The countertops, made in the Andromeda shade of HI-MACS®, fit perfectly with the custom-made cupboards and the built-in appliances, producing a uniform result as if it were all made from a single piece. The colour chosen for the solid surface material from LG Hausys creates a sense of space, cleanliness and light, contributing to the overall balance with the choice of these modern, contemporary materials, in contrast to the Art Deco style of the building.

As well as for its ability to be joined seamlessly so that it appears to be fashioned from a single piece of material, HI-MACS® was also chosen because it is ultra-resistant and completely hygienic, and thus perfect for food handling. Its non-porous surface prevents any build-up of waste or bacteria, making the kitchen surface easier to clean.

Information about the project

Project manager and developer: IDM Properties LLP – www.idmproperties.com

HI-MACS® manufacturer: Solid Fabrications – www.solidfabrications.co.uk

HI-MACS® supplier: James Latham – www.lathamtimber.co.uk

Material: HI-MACS® Andromeda

Photos: Tim Cole Photography