It's laminate, but not as you know it
Made in Italy by high pressure laminate specialists Arpa Industriale, Fenix is upping the game in the world of laminates.
How is Fenix made?
Traditionally high pressure laminate is made from layered sheets of paper or board in melamine resin, which are bonded under the combined effect of heat and high pressure to make a strong, hardwearing surface that can be applied to furniture and worktops.
As a material it shot to fame in the 1950’s and has become synonymous with its original inventor, Formica, who still supply a great range, however there are plenty of other laminate companies out there to choose from such as Polyrey or Egger. All have a slightly different colour range and finish so be sure to get samples to find the perfect fit for your project.
The amazing range of colours available means laminates have made a comeback in recent years as a cheap and playful way to finish plywood worktops and add some pop to your kitchen design.
Fenix is the latest development in this trend. According to its manufacturers, it’s a high-tech nanotechnological material, unique thanks to a multilayer coating and the use of next-generation nanoparticles and acrylic resins which are hardened and cured through an innovative Electron Beam Curing process.
What is Fenix like as a material?
While the science may be baffling, the result is an extremely durable material with an opaque finish that is soft to the touch. It is also anti-fingerprint, heat resistant, water repellent, mould resistant, hygienic, easy to clean and resistant to the solvents and reagents typically used for household cleaning.
As if that wasn’t enough, the surface of the material is scattered with a dense grid of crosspolymers with their own memory, which can be reactivated by the application of heat. Meaning that superficial microscratches can actually be repaired using a tea cloth and an iron.
But apart from all this, it’s the way it looks which has made it a current favourite with designers. Its ultra matt finish is soft to the touch and gives it an almost velvet look. It comes in a rather restrained colour palette which makes it feel like Formica’s sophisticated older sister. We’ve fallen in love with the Blue Fes, a dark midnight blue that works perfectly with crisp white tiles and a grown up brass trim. All we need now is a new kitchen to use it in!
We have created a FREE Renovation Budget Guide
that unpacks all the figures of a project – from building costs and professional fees to those extra expenses that no-one tells you about.
This will put your construction budget in the context of the whole project’s costs and make sure you’re considering all those added extras from the outset.
How much will my extension cost in 2024?
It’s the all-important question for home renovators: how much is my extension really going to cost? Read on to find out!
Natural Plaster – and why we can’t get enough
Want a material that is beautiful, and works hard for you? Look no further than Natural Plaster. We explain why we can’t get enough of it!
The New DIY: Online Renovation Courses
More homeowners are turning to online renovation courses as a way to save costs on their renovations. Take a look at our top picks!
Where NOT to scrimp on your renovation
Sometimes it’s tempting to cut corners and save a few pounds but it’s likely you’ll regret it in the long term. We share our top tips of where it doesn’t pay to scrimp in your dream home.
Open House Festival: 8th – 21st of September
For those who have decided THIS is the year that they’re going to bite the bullet and renovate, Open House London is a chance to go and see some projects up close and personal. Here’s our list of recommended projects to go visit.
Why do we still not have a national retrofit strategy?
We talk to Paul Testa of HEM Architecture about why we need a national retrofit strategy and why it needs to happen now.
How to prepare your house for builders: 10 things you must do
When getting ready to receive contractors into your home it’s important to prepare your property. Get started with these 10 must do tasks!
Our 10 top tips to buying a house
Buying a house is potentially the biggest financial commitment you will ever make, so take the time to prep with our tips!
Don’t move, Improve! 2022 Shortlist
Check out the 15 incredible London renovation projects shortlisted for this year’s Don’t Move, Improve! Awards and get inspired!
Viewing a property: The ultimate checklist
You’ve done your research! But when you’re in the actual property, remember to consider the following things…
How much will my extension cost?
When it comes to home-renovating this is the most common question we get asked. So let’s get right to it, how do you work out the REAL cost? Read on to find out!
How to make the most of a Trade Show
Returning to thoughts of renovating your home? Then jumpstart your project by attending a trade show. But first make sure you read our top tips on how to make the most of your visit!
Top tips for renovating from industry experts
We asked a range of architects and experts working in the residential sector to give us their top tip for homeowners who want to renovate.
Worried about increasing construction prices?
Everyone is concerned about increasing construction costs. We talk to BuildPartner about what measures home renovators can take to reduce risks for their projects.
Your handy guide to assessing builders
Linden from Weaver shares his a handy guide to assessing builders. So before a spade is in the ground, it’s worth taking a moment to prepare.
Product spotlight: Little Bishop Hook
A neat solution for pendant lighting; we take a look at the clean design and appealing simplicity of the Little Bishop Pendant Hook
The ‘Iron Triangle’ you should embrace
It may sound daunting, but knowing about the ‘Iron Triangle’ in advance can help you plan your project and set realistic expectations.
Making the most of your outdoor space
If you’re living in London, then chances are you’re severely lacking in one department: outdoor space. But even if you only have a small patch to play with, this space can do so much for you with a bit of care and forward planning.
Your ultimate guide to extractor fans
Our complete guide answers all your extractor fan questions (even those you didn’t know you had!)
EJ Ryder and the world of joinery
Edwin J Ryder and his team specialise in bold, creative design and impeccable workmanship in their joinery and interior finishes. We spoke with Edwin to find out how they work with clients on their property renovations.
