Background

DFMK was called upon by Robin Dussek of Bespoke Wizard to create a new reception desk for an international biotech company. Bespoke Wizard specialises in one-off, bespoke furniture design and joinery as part of commercial contracts.

The requirement

The brief was to create a design for a reception desk integrating large flat screens to promote new corporate branding at the building’s entrance. The client wanted the design to be ‘clean’, ‘uncluttered’, ‘monolithic’, and ‘rectilinear’.

The new design needed to include additional storage for the receptionist’s use, and better cable management to minimise desktop wires and sockets. We also needed to factor in equal access (i.e. DDA) to the design for wheelchair users.

The project handover was due for a re-branding launch, and we were specified with tight turnaround times to fulfil this.

The solution

Providing hand sketches and full colour CAD renders, Bespoke Wizard proposed and confirmed a design, with DFMK providing approval drawings.

Bespoke Wizard liaised closely with the client, the AV provider and DFMK, to ensure the large flat screens would fit and work as intended. They worked closely with the client’s IT and facilities team, to ensure optimal power, data provision and connectivity.

The desk was created in Glacier White Corian, for a clean and sleek finish. The enhanced durability and hygienic properties of Corian make it a strong choice for the desk, as it will stay looking bright and fresh with minimal regular cleaning.

Challenges

The timeline and delivery program were very tight for this project. The deadline was only achievable through DFMK’s commitment, speed, and response time. The quality of decision-making from all stakeholders enabled the designs to be progressed quickly, with a high level of confidence.

Physical access for the delivery and installation of the product was also a challenge. Bespoke Wizard took special care to ensure access to the building to install the final design, as it had to be a ‘one-piece’ construction.

Results

As with all successful projects, it takes a team effort. The client team was exceptional; they remained focused, knowledgeable and helpful throughout.

The DFMK design and manufacturing team reflected Bespoke Wizard’s total commitment to the project and the program. Bespoke Wizard’s willingness to make a minor alteration to the design following a factory visit, helped us progress unhindered.

Robin Dussek, Bespoke Wizard, had this to say about working with DFMK:

“DFMK were a joy to work with. The process was easy, and the team inspired confidence throughout. Their speed of response at all stages particularly impressed me. The design team quickly grasped the requirements of the technical and engineering aspects of the design. They were able to work with me to resolve technical design issues quickly, and they displayed pin-sharp attention to detail.

“Their fast lead time was crucial for this time-critical project. I’d recommend DFMK for speed of turn-around and responsiveness. They have a knowledgeable and helpful team, totally committed to customer service.”

Background

Nicholas Stephens Construction Ltd. reached out to us with a vision to transform part of St Martin’s Courtyard. Located in London’s bustling Covent Garden, St Martin’s Courtyard is an open-air shopping and dining destination with an incredible location in the heart of the city.

The building in question was undergoing a complete refurbishment and the goal was clear: to breathe new life into the structure and revitalise its presence in Covent Garden.

The requirement

The project called for a complete exterior cladding overhaul, and the client had a very specific vision in mind. We needed to create an exterior that exuded sophistication, combining aesthetics with functionality. The building’s façade needed to be visually striking and inviting but also offer durability and a long-lasting finish.

The solution

We recommended 12mm Corian sheet material in ‘Sea Salt’, an elegant, natural-looking shade, for the building’s cladding. Not only did this choice add a sophisticated finish, it’s also highly durable and resistant to stains, ensuring the cladding’s longevity. We assisted in the project’s design phase before manufacturing and installing the complete cladding project.

Challenges

The initial design was complicated – not only did we have to design the material element, but we also had to design custom moulds to thermoform the Corian into a specific shape. The cladding was completely bespoke and the framework had to be designed specifically for the project by DFMK.

Results

The newly installed cladding not only refreshes the aesthetics of St Martin’s Courtyard, it also adds a layer of functionality. The design is completely unique – there are no others like it in the UK and it was one of the very first cladding projects of its type. This one-of-a-kind design showcases the transformative power of using Corian as part of a cladding project; not only is it visually striking, it’s durable and will last for many years to come.