Today, Neolith announces the launch of Neolith Urban Boutique (NUB) Medellin, Colombia. This special showroom, dedicated to the material, is established in partnership with long-time Colombian distributor Vianova Stone Gallery.
An original concept from renowned architect Eduardo Munera (ERA Architects) alongside interior designer Diana Guerrero, NUB Medellin pays tribute to Colombia’s vibrant, modern and forward-thinking design community. It also showcases the unrivaled aesthetic and performance qualities of Neolith, particularly its seamless ability to fit within any interior or exterior surfacing specification.
Imagine That
The idea for NUB Medellin’s interiors was developed according to a strict set of instructions from Neolith and Vianova, who wanted to look beyond the standard showroom format, creating an immersive, experiential space in which Neolith would take centre stage.
In order to fire visitors’ imaginations, foster creativity and encourage originality, the design had to be as non-prescriptive as possible. This meant simulations traditional setting such as kitchens, bathrooms and even exterior cladding were forbidden, presenting a welcome challenge to Munera and Guerrero.
Material Masterpieces
Central to NUB Medellin is a breathtaking gallery of full-size Neolith slabs, standing vertically and positioned at parallel angles to each other. Featuring some of the brand’s most popular colors including the award-winning Mar Del Plata, Zaha Stone, Retrostone and Calacatta Gold, this installation highlights the great variety within the Neolith range.
Further applications include a reception desk wrapped in Mont Blanc, a subtly veined pattern which pays homage to the white quartzite found in the European Alps and the Franco-Swiss Jura appellation. A table specified with a Sofia Cuprum top also demonstrates how Neolith’s innovative design technology can achieve complex looks including patinated metals.
Universal Appeal
Offering a holistic experience to visitors, each aspect of NUB Medellin has been carefully considered, from strategically placed lighting to luxurious soft furnishings, creating a welcoming space which encourages contemplation. A range of verdant plants have also been positioned across the space, emphasising Neolith’s organic credentials and its commitment to sustainable manufacturing and design.
CMO, Mar Esteve Cortes, says, “South America is one of our fastest growing territories, with a particular appetite for Neolith’s surfaces growing in Colombia. Medellin is home to a young, dynamic design community who are passionate about using the best, most sustainable materials available. NUB Medellin gives us a chance to directly engage with them, showcasing a wide range of solutions to help them achieve even the most ambitious ideas and deliver to highly specific briefs.”
Commenting on the joint venture, Santiago Escobar, General Manager at Vianova, said, “We’d wanted to incorporate an immersive, gallery-like display within our premises for some time. Importantly, it had be a space in which art, architecture and design could combine to emphasise the finesse of Neolith’s many different patterns. Essentially, the slabs would be showcased as if they were works of art at an exhibition.”
He adds, “This is why we have curated Neolith slabs as you would a series of sculptures, with guided lighting to emphasise every detail, from the vivid veins and tactile textures to the contrasting colors. We believe this will inspire our customers to envisage incredible designs for their projects. Whatever the brief.”
