Diespeker has carried out another first in the world of resin based terrazzo, by bending resin terrazzo panels to fit a curved countertop.
The project
The innovative process was carried out for a countertop for Nandos in Fallowfield, Manchester on a fast-track programme. The client chose a material from our Standard Plus range but the timescale meant that our Italian suppliers couldn’t meet the deadline (our Standard and Standard Plus ranges are manufactured in Italy and transported to our factory for cutting and finishing).
Thinking on their feet, the Diespeker team was able to offer an alternative in resin.
The challenge
The panels had to fit exactly with the curvature of the countertop design. Using cement based terrazzo would only require a cast for a perfect fit. However, for the resin alternative, Diespeker had to work out how to bend the terrazzo without breaking it.
The process
The client’s choice of material was Standard Plus design TE068. To match it in resin, the team had to source green pebbles. The pebbles were up to 30mm thickness, too thick for the bending to be successful. So Diespeker cast the panels at 40mm, then milled the material to 15mm ready to bend.
The resin panels were delivered on site, and the curving carried out there. The panels were heated slowly until the resin softened, they were then bent to follow the curvature of the countertop.
The finished item is a striking counter that not only looks good, but offers a durable, easily maintained surface for a busy restaurant environment.
Tables to match
For the same job, Diespeker created large table tops to match, including one 1600mm diameter table. This was another breakthrough in the use of resin, as cement based terrazzo is limited to 1200mm width.
