MATERIALS LIBRARY

Plant Based Finishes

Discover the finishes and techniques from our craftsmen, artisans and makers.
From handmade ceramics to bespoke metal finishes.

Plant Based Board (1)

Plant Based Cast (3)

Plant Based Glass (6)

Plant Based Paper (2)

Plant Based Textile (7)

Plant Based Finishes

This product category focuses on plant-based, sustainable materials for the architecture and design industry, promoting an environmentally conscious approach to design.

We seek to represent the diversity of nature, and as a result of the natural raw materials and manual processing, our panels stand out with their unique appearance. Thanks to our special production processes, the plants retain their color and natural character, creating visually stunning and engaging products. Only plant parts with a renewal period of up to one year are used in the production, minimizing environmental impact.

This product is a lightweight sheet made of plant mesh, paired with an environmentally friendly, water-based adhesive, providing tactile and visually engaging surfaces. This is the basis of all Viaplant materials. Use and applications include lighting, wall coverings, kitchen splashbacks, room dividers, railings, furniture, objects, and accessories. Available finishes include glass surface with glossy finish, textile with natural finish, wallpaper with matt or glossy finish, and cast with matt or glossy finish.

What types of plants are used in plant based finishes?

At Materials Assemble, our plant finishes are crafted using a variety of unique plant sources. These include rose, hay, peony, and reed among others. These plant materials are carefully processed to provide natural, sustainable finishes that are both non-toxic and eco-friendly.

The plants used in our finishes are sourced locally and responsibly, with a renewable growth cycle of one year or less. This ensures that the raw materials are both eco-friendly and continually replenishable. The colours and textures of our finishes are influenced by seasonal variations, adding a natural and dynamic aesthetic to each product.

Our plant-based finishes contribute to eco-friendly and sustainable design in several key ways. Firstly, these finishes are LEED Gold certified, which highlights their use of organic materials that meet high environmental standards. Additionally, we embrace upcycling by using plants like ragweed, an invasive species. By collecting and transforming ragweed into valuable materials, we not only reduce the environmental impact of this unwanted plant but also create a functional product from a resource that would otherwise be overlooked.

Yes, our plant-based finishes are designed to be versatile and can be used in both residential and commercial-grade applications. They are created with high-performance standards, ensuring durability and  resistance suitable for various environments. Furthermore, the LEED Gold certification of our finishes ensures that they are aligned with sustainable building standards, making them ideal for both residential and commercial projects aiming for green certifications.

To retain the natural colour and texture of the plants used in our finishes, we utilise a clear water binder. This binder helps to minimise the change in colour that typically occurs due to UV exposure over time.

Yes, due to the nature of the plant-based materials we use, you can expect some variation in colour and texture. This is a result of seasonal variations, which affect the plant's natural hues, as well as the real plant textures that are unique to each harvest.

Yes, our plant based finishes are well-suited for furniture and lighting projects. Some of the finishes are translucent, allowing light to pass through and highlighting the unique textures and colours of the plants. 

In certain cases, yes, our plant based materials can be cut or customised during installation. Depending on the specific product and application, adjustments may be possible. To ensure the best results, please chat with our team at info@materialsassemble.com first.

Yes, in certain cases, we can accommodate custom requests for specific plants or colours in our finishes. If you're looking for a unique or bespoke look, especially for larger quantities, we can work with you to create a product that suits your exact specifications. We encourage you to contact our team directly to discuss the details of your project, so we can explore the options and guide you through the process to achieve the desired outcome.

Each of our plant-based panels is unique due to the natural variability of the plant materials used. Factors such as seasonal variations, the real plant textures, and the originating location of the plants all contribute to subtle differences in the appearance of each panel. This ensures that no two panels are exactly the same, creating a one-of-a-kind product with its own distinct character.