Virgin Atlantic chooses the design, functional and environmental qualities of Corian^® solid surface for its training centre in Gatwick

The Base, a newly refurbished Virgin Atlantic Training Centre near Gatwick, features a number of upscale facilities including a stylish retail space incorporating desks and display units made from Corian^® solid surface in cool Glacier White. The Corian^® create a fresh, clean backdrop to the colourful and varied merchandise on display, while offering seamlessly integrated, easy-to-clean, durable surfaces so essential in a high traffic environment. Corian^® is also paired successfully with glass and metal in this light, bright contemporary scheme.

Corian^® was also specified for applications in the cafeteria design and in the restrooms of this 20,000 square metre and £12,500,000 refurbishment facility. The stylish design is a creation by Universal Design Studio in collaboration with the Virgin Atlantic Design team and PDP.

Elina Grigoriou of PDP Interior Design comments: “The design team was looking for a durable surface material that would look good on the first day and keep looking good for the life of the design. A material that would not stain or degrade around moisture, food and the cleaning associated with such areas. Corian^® solid surface was specified as it offered all of the above characteristics, plus it has a great choice of colours and was relatively cost effective in comparison to similar products.”

Corian^® surfacing material is proving increasingly popular in retail environments as it offers not only outstanding design versatility and an extensive colour palette, but also the kind of durability demanded by top brands who expect their outlets to reflect the quality of their product.

In addition to the aesthetic and performance benefits, the material also offers a pleasing sleekness to the touch and a distinctive sensual appeal. Corian^® is also compatible with a number of other materials and technologies, lending itself to the integration of ambient lighting, audio and scent-dispensing effects.

Corian^® can also help contribute to sustainability. The durability, repairability and re-usability of the material means a long and productive life cycle, while certification from bodies such as GREENGUARD for indoor air quality, confirm how much Corian^® solid surface has to offer to a wide range of projects.