The durability, design versatility and aesthetic beauty of Staron Solid Surfaces are just a few benefits that make the material the perfect solution for this unique and exciting application.

After visiting the Staron exhibition stand at the 100 Percent Design Show, the UK Natural History Museum’s in-house designer Gemma Smith knew the surface was exactly what was needed for their latest exhibit. Smith worked with build and fit out company Paragon Creative to design and build a plinth to house the most complete skeleton of a stegosaurus in the world.

The stegosaurus is one of the more iconic dinosaurs in the collective zeitgeist. Thanks to appearances in TV and films like the Jurassic Park franchise, the 150 million year old dinosaur has always been popular amongst palaeontologists and the historically curious alike. This particular skeleton was discovered in 2003 in Wyoming, and now resides at London’s Natural History Museum.

The design brief and challenge was to produce a plinth that would support the tricky skeletal armature for the stegosaurus without actually touching it in any way – to eliminate the risk of vibration or impact and offer a better view for museum patrons.

The resulting build sees an internal steel frame designed inside the outer plinth, sitting on bespoke shock absorbent feet. The outer plinth then surrounds and covers this inner platform with no direct contact.

The visual appeal of the plinth was also important to display this incredible piece of history. Made entirely from Staron Solid Surfaces in colour Bright White, the plinth has been designed in a unique layered effect, resulting in a stage-like effect that the treasure proudly sits upon. The full outcome is a striking and utterly unique display.

An interpretation table was also created with Staron Solid Surfaces, incorporating replicas and interactive information about the dinosaur. The virtually seamless nature of Staron makes it suitable for this application, as there are no open joints, eliminating dirt-trapping crevices to keep cleaning and maintenance easy – the skeleton isn’t the only attraction that will stand the test of time.