ICON - The magazine of the American Society of Interior Designers - (Page 32) Sonic Fabric is constructed from 49 percent recyclable audiotapes. Sounds in the weave can be heard by drawing a tape head over the surface. next impact. This presents an interesting material for designers to ponder and a new way of addressing safety in architecture and interiors. Manufacturers such as Designtex, Industry Partner of ASID, are also thinking nontraditionally to achieve material innovations. From the inside of potato chip bags to a finish made from tree saps, they are researching materials never before seen in the market. Sonic Fabric, pictured here, is one product that has emerged from their research and development process. The fabric was the work or “somewhat accidental invention” of sound artist Alyce Santoro, who together with Designtex has given a new life to audiocassette tapes. Sometimes innovation simply takes an existing material or product and improves the manufacturing process or adds a technological advancement. In the case of Skyline Design, they have incorporated an advanced screening technology into their patterned architectural glass. Typically, color imagery on glass is applied by sandwiching the image between two layers of glass or through a surface-applied film. Skyline’s technology produces imagery that is integral to the surface of the glass. The two-sided nature of the material results in imagery on both sides that gives the glass added depth and dimension. Additionally, designers can specify a custom size, rather than dealing with limited sheet sizes. This is more cost effective, reduces waste and is a clean process with no VOC emissions. The Business of Materials In the business of innovative materials and the products that incorporate them, success often depends upon a strategic marketing campaign and launch into the marketplace. “Products need backing and marketing. Sampling, testing and capital are all part of the success of innovative, new materials,” explains Robin Reigi, founder and president of RobinReigi. “There are small manufacturers with great products that can’t go anywhere, so sometimes these products fall by the wayside.” While Material ConneXion serves as a leading knowledge base for information about new and innovative materials, with libraries on three continents and an advanced material solutions team, Reigi’s company DESIGNTEX, INDUSTRY PARTNER OF ASID SKYLINE DESIGN The NeoCon display shown here illustrates Skyline Design’s techniques, including texture, oxide etching and advanced screening technology on architectural glass, inspiring designers to play with scale and color. 32 ASID ICON | THE MAGAZINE OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF INTERIOR DESIGNERS
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