Bespoke Curved Structures Brought to Life with 3M DI-NOC

Creating a Finish That Responded to Its Surroundings

The structures had been designed by the project’s interior designers and manufactured off-site by a specialist carpentry business.

Due to their scale, the individual sections were delivered to the property before being assembled piece by piece. Together, they created a large, curved architectural feature within the lobby.

The chosen 3M DI-NOC finish needed to complement the wider interior while also responding to the natural and reflected light within the space.

ME-2023 was selected for its metallic appearance, which worked with both the lobby’s design and the reflections created by an external water feature. Rather than appearing flat or static, the surface interacts with changing light conditions to create a more visually distinctive finish.

Preparing Bespoke MDF for Architectural Film

The complex shape of the installation was only one part of the challenge. Achieving reliable adhesion to the MDF substrate was a key priority for the installation team.

Once the structures had been assembled on-site, the surfaces were carefully prepared and sanded. The team then applied two coats of 3M WP Primer before beginning the film installation.

This preparation helped create a suitable surface for the adhesive and gave the installers greater confidence that the film would remain securely bonded over time.

Jason explained:

“Our main concern was making sure we had good adhesion to the MDF structure. We knew 3M DI-NOC, used with 3M Primer, would give us the best chance of achieving an installation that would stand the test of time.”

The project demonstrates why substrate preparation should never be treated as an afterthought, particularly when working with custom-made MDF features. Even the best architectural film will only perform as intended when the surface beneath it has been properly assessed and prepared.

Wrapping a Demanding Curved Design

Applying architectural film to large, curved structures requires careful control of the material.

The installers needed to cover both the exterior faces and internal surfaces of the four structures, while working around the integrated storage elements and maintaining a consistent finish across each section.

Despite the complexity of the design, Jason found 3M DI-NOC easy to handle.

“It was very easy to work with, especially on such a demanding shape. 3M DI-NOC continues to deliver the results we need, and for high-end work it is the material we trust.”

The film’s conformability helped the team follow the curved geometry of the structures while retaining the metallic visual effect specified by the designers.

Completed in Five Days

Two approved installers completed the full preparation and application process in five days.

The finished installation gave the bespoke structures a consistent metallic surface that complemented the surrounding lobby and made use of the changing light within the room. It also provided the interior designers with a way to achieve their chosen aesthetic without relying on fabricated metal cladding or another rigid decorative finish.

Reflecting on the support provided throughout the project, Jason added:

“The support we received from William Smith and from George was second to none.”

This project is a strong example of how architectural film can be used beyond conventional refurbishment work. With the right product selection, preparation and installation expertise, it can become part of an entirely bespoke architectural feature.

For advice on selecting 3M DI-NOC, preparing unusual substrates or specifying materials for a complex interior wrapping project, contact the William Smith team.