The multifunctionality and flexibility of HI-MACS is put to the test in a state-of-the-art showroom by automotive retailer Rockar Hyundai.
Rockar was formed in 2011 to develop an easy and flexible alternative to buying and owning a car. Launching in partnership with Hyundai, the omnichannel concept is unprecedented in the UK automotive industry, reflecting the way in which consumers’ now research online and jump between channels on their shopping journey.
Doing away with pushy salesmen and out-of-town showrooms, this shopping centre store lets customers browse, book test-drives, or even buy on a central touchscreen table, with or without the help of ‘angels’ (advisors who aren’t on commission).
Designed by retail experts Dalziel & Pow, the interior features sculptural desks and information stations moulded from HI-MACS natural acrylic stone.
The specification was for a light coloured, durable material to withstand heavy use. The solution was HI-MACS, an exceptionally versatile material, which is used by designers and architects to create stunning sculptural forms in domestic, commercial and professional projects the world over.
As part of the new customer journey, customers are able to browse before they buy with interactive touch screen table tops made of HI-MACS, which provide all the car specifications required. Exclusive HI-MACS distributor James Latham supplied 100 sheets for the distinctive design brief, which required a material that creates the appearance of being cast from one seamless, flowing piece across the entire interior.
Speaking about the use of HI-MACS Elliot Mitchell from Dalziel and Paw said, “We specified HI-MACS as it suits the application perfectly. Laminate would be very easy to fit but may not have the longwearing properties that solid surface offers. On the other hand, a material such as ceramic tiles would be durable but too costly and time consuming.”
HI-MACS can be moulded into any shape and is widely used for architectural and interior applications in both residential and commercial projects. Made from a mix of acrylic, natural minerals and pigments, it creates a smooth, non-porous and visually seamless surface that meets the highest standards for aesthetics, fabrication, function and hygiene.
