Showroom Oblica

An experiential showroom in the heart of Sydney

Oblica’s new showroom in Sydney is a prime example of the so-called “Laminam Effect”, that is, the ability of Laminam ceramic surfaces to transcend their traditional role as cladding and become a genuine tool for product design. From this perspective, the material does not merely clad the space, but actively contributes to defining its language, influencing design choices, the perception of the product and the entire architectural experience.

Inside the showroom, design, innovation and material research come together in a highly immersive environment, where the fireplaces are not simply on display, but are designed and interpreted as sculptural elements in constant dialogue with the surrounding surfaces. It is precisely the use of Laminam that makes this integration possible: the large ceramic slabs become a design platform that allows the product and the space to be conceived as a single, coherent system.

The aim of the project was to create an environment that showcases the company’s fireplace collection through a contemporary and coherent architectural language, in which every element contributes to a refined and engaging experience. In this sense, Laminam is not a material choice made as an afterthought, but a design driver that guides product design decisions, facilitating the creation of continuous surfaces, minimalist details and highly integrated display solutions.

Location Sydney, Australia
Year 2025
Applications Furnishing elements
Project Type Show-room

Laminam: a choice between aesthetics and performance

The decision to use large porcelain stoneware slabs was not merely aesthetic, but was also closely linked to the material’s technical performance, as it is particularly well-suited to contexts requiring heat resistance, safety and durability. The Laminam slabs used in the project, which are just 5 mm thick and measure 1620×3240 mm, make it possible to create large, continuous surfaces, minimising joints and ensuring a remarkably clean aesthetic. This feature is essential in an exhibition setting such as Oblica, where each fireplace is conceived as a sculptural element that harmonises with the surrounding space.

A key factor in the development of the project was the contribution of Studio Porcelain, Laminam’s official distributor for New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

A balanced palette of textures

From an aesthetic standpoint, the design is based on a carefully considered palette of textures, comprising three main finishes: Calce Avorio, IN-SIDE Porfido Marrone and I Naturali Noir Desir. The first introduces soft, luminous tones, helping to create a welcoming, minimalist atmosphere; the second evokes more natural, earthy textures, lending depth and warmth to the spaces; the third stands out for its bold, sophisticated character, adding a striking visual impact. The interplay between these three elements creates a compositional balance that showcases the variety of fireplace models on display, whether they are wood-burning, gas or electric.

Technical performance and long-term reliability

The technical performance of Laminam surfaces was another key factor in the choice of material. Their fire-resistant composition makes them ideal for fireplace applications, while their light weight facilitates transportation and installation on site. This is complemented by exceptional resistance to scratches, stains, UV rays and high temperatures, characteristics that ensure a long service life even with intensive use.

An example of applied textural innovation

Ultimately, the project demonstrates how the conscious choice of materials can have a profound impact on the quality of the architectural space. The use of large Laminam slabs not only meets specific technical requirements, but also helps to create a strong and recognisable visual identity. Oblica’s new showroom is a concrete example of material innovation applied to design, where every detail is intended to enhance the visitor’s experience and highlight the excellence of the products on display.