The Test Seems A Success!
I’m always on the hunt for fun and interesting materials that can be incorporated into my dental office designs. For some time now I’ve been itching to incorporate some of the resin materials, such as 3form, Lumicor, or Bella Lucent, that have natural organics in them into furniture pieces that can be used on a patio or atrium style space. One of the roadblocks with this has been that none of the products are rated for outdoor use. So, what is an industrious designer going to do?
Well, I decided to test one of the products myself. I got a sample of Bella Lucent’s Prairie Grass pattern and put it outside. I did this last October. The panel has sat there in the sun, rain, snow, sleet, and cold for almost nine full months now. Guess what? There is absolutely no sign of fogging, internal damage to the organics, or resin breakdown whatsoever. This is what I was expecting.
I realize this is not a scientific test of the material and while Indiana undergoes some extreme temperature ranges, the sample has not been tested under the most brutal of conditions. We don’t get as hot as Phoenix or as cold as Fairbanks, but I think it is safe to say, the material is durable enough for use in a semi-protected outdoor space in most climates.
Now, think of the fun that can be had designing one-of-a-kind tables, chairs, and outdoor rooms using this type of material. If you are lucky enough to have an office location that can incorporate a patio or partial outdoor waiting space for your patients and staff, your ability to further differentiate and brand your dental office is enhanced. I’m really looking forward to my first opportunity to assist a client with utilizing this in their dental office design and interior, or not so interior, branding message!
