A sense of versatility in design and application is hard to grasp, so when you find a specifier that works, it’s easy to see why you might stick with them. A1 Office has been specifying the varied portfolio of Alternative Surfaces for a number of years, most recently across The Gordon Skills and Job Centre, Visionstream and Austbrokers Countrywide’ workspaces.

A longstanding relationship doesn’t come out of nowhere though, so why did A1 Office turn to Alternative Surfaces?

When it came to The Gordon Skills and Jobs Centre, “the X-Bond finish selected was nostalgic of an ‘old school ground’ style which metaphorically conveyed the heritage of The Gordon,” says Dana Moussaoui, Design Manager for A1 Office. “It also enabled us to carry a seamless join between the herringbone surface and the concrete surface. Being a hardwearing material it was also the logical choice – it will withstand the heavy wear and tear of this commercial space, while retaining a sleek attractive look.”

“We wanted to convey a modern, industrial look throughout the space by creating a continuous transition from floor to wall” says Moussaoui, which made Alternative Surfaces a clear choice, with a product that could be used both on floors and walls.

For Austbrokers Countrywide, A1 Office wanted to use a flooring solution that would act like a ‘canvas’ for the feature reception desk. “The subtle tones and soft ergonomic tactility made it a very appealing option,” Moussaoui says. “Its concrete look sets the perfect backdrop to the journey and experience of the space.”

Compared to this concrete look, Visionstreams’ office required an outdoor feel for their breakout space. Alternative Surfaces were used here because it allowed A1 Office to capture the feeling of outdoors with the functionality of an indoor space, without having to use a real concrete slab.

“We have worked with Michaella from Alternative Surfaces on a number of projects and she has consistently provided us with product solutions that meet our design brief,” Moussaoui says of the partnership. “We pride ourselves on designing and delivering innovative and high quality spaces, working with a supplier like Alternative Surfaces certainly helps us achieve this every time.”

Photography: Andrew Li, hifromandrew.com