Artworks - bringing glamour to a Bristol nightspot! Tuesday, 24th January 2012

Pam Pam’s is one of the newest nightspots in Bristol and is situated on the Triangle at the top of Park Street, considered one of the most trendy and affluent areas of Bristol. Pam Pam’s is aimed at Bristol’s students, with DJ’s playing classic student anthems and allowing them to relax with friends in a sophisticated and VIP-themed setting.

Artworks were brought in by designers Simple Simon Design to supply the graphical treatments throughout the building. Artworks’ external work at Pam Pam’s consists of an illuminated sign that projects their logo into the distance. Inside works include digital wall-coverings, one of which has an image of the inside of a grand theatre that is filled with rich gold tones. This theme is continued into two feature bar areas made from vulcramat and printed with pillars and arches similar to the wallpaper. The gold tones are then continued in the form of a gold leaf design used to finish many areas, including the bar fronts, glazing and mirrors.  In total, over 30 linear metres of gold vinyl was cut into a leaf design in house at Artworks, and, printed on to other surfaces such as wallpaper and glass, this continues the design theme that flows throughout the building.

The overall effect is one of glamour with a funky contemporary finish. (Photos by Frances Taylor Photography)

Engineered AcousticArt Tuesday, 24th January 2012

Once upon a time you would have arrived in most reception areas and been surrounded by plain walls, maybe a sign with the company logo on, and an outdated picture that bore no relevance to the company or its surroundings. Now, thanks to digital printing, you can transform your surroundings to reflect your company and its values, and have the added bonus of reducing background noise. 

Frazer-Nash Consultancy is the latest company to be benefiting from Artworks’ digital print technology.  As part of a major re-brand, a huge acoustic canvas has been installed by Artworks in the reception area.  Artworks designed the canvas from the client’s brief to incorporate their company branding with their engineering background and iconic landmarks from the local area. 

This canvas is not just a standard canvas on a wall, because hidden inside the canvas is a reflector sound absorber designed to absorb up to 95% of reverberation. To reach the recommended sound level required for the reception area, it was calculated that the acoustic canvas would need to be 18 square metres.

Artworks have further work planned with Frazer-Nash later in the year.
To find out more about AcousticArt please contact us on T 01179 666331 or E sales@artworks-solutions.com

The Surface Design Show 2012 Tuesday, 24th January 2012

Artworks would like to invite you to join them at this year Surface Design Show.

It’s being held at London’s Business Design Centre from the 7th-9th February 2012.

Artworks can be found on Stand No. 308 next to David Clouting and Solus Ceramics. 

At the show they will be showcasing a range of bespoke printed, engraved and veneered surfaces all of which are designed and manufactured in house at Artworks.

Artworks John Sulzmann, Seath Herbert and Dave Nowell will be there demonstrating their innovative products and will be on hand to show you what can be created for your interiors.

You can register now by going to www.surfacedesignshow.com and click Register.

New Appointments Tuesday, 24th January 2012

Artworks are pleased to welcome Kevin Stapleton. Kevin will be joining the Artworks management team, heading up Artworks’ new manufacturing facility, specialising in new product development and specialist finishes.

The first of our two apprentices has also started work at Artworks. Kenny Cummins will be learning a vast array of skills, from manufacturing through to design, in conjunction with the City of Bristol College where he is studying for his NVQ level 2.

Artworks - looking forward to 2012 Thursday, 22nd December 2011

Another year has flown by here at Artworks and we have good reason to look back with satisfaction.

Despite the widespread predictions of economic doom 2011 has been a successful year for Artworks. Turnover was up around 20 per cent on 2010, which has allowed us to take on more people and develop our range of products.

Our AcousticArt, DrywipeArt and PinArt products have performed particularly well in 2011. Companies are willing to spend on products that add value to their workplaces, and our ability to combine functionality and quality has helped us win some big contracts. 

Of course the market has changed in the past year. We’ve noticed that instead of going for complete office refits large firms are instead looking to ‘re-fresh’ their premises.

There are real opportunities out there for Artworks, so we’ve recently signed a lease on an additional 4,000 square ft local site where we’ll be able to fabricate much larger pieces of work. We’ll be able to meet the needs of a wider range of clients and capitalise on new commercial opportunities.

We’ve also invested in specialist new equipment, including a membrane press for 3D veneering along with other associated fabrication equipment. This will allow us to combine services and offer innovative new products that will keep us at the forefront of the market.  

A company like ours always has to look to the future, not only in terms of machinery but also our workforce. We’ve taken on two apprentices who will combine learning their trade at Artworks with studying for industry-related qualifications at City of Bristol College.  

We’ll need to maintain our commitment to quality if we’re to build on what we’ve achieved in 2011. With a healthy order book and a long list of satisfied customers, we’re already looking forward to a successful 2012.

Artworks - Manage the Risk Thursday, 22nd December 2011

Mercer Glasgow have recently moved to the newly renovated former Victorian Post Office building situated in George Square. The building provides state-of-the-art accommodation, including an impressive glass roof extension, whilst retaining its iconic façade.

Working in conjunction with Patrick Ames of fit-out firm Claremont, Artworks were tasked to produce graphical artwork with links to the building’s historic surroundings. So, within the offices, you will find images of people such as John Logie Baird, the inventor of the television, Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of Penicillin, and John Boyd Dunlop, the founder of Dunlop Tyres and inventor of the first inflatable tyre, to name but a few. 

Each meeting room has been named after a different iconic person from the local area, and then the name of each room has been incorporated into the manifestations.  Digital wall coverings have been used to display some of the iconic images and also as a back drop to the acrylic lettering featuring their names.  Other Artworks products include aluminium door signs, internal signage, and both canvas and aluminium framed artwork, all designed, manufactured and installed by Artworks. 

Mercer are certainly pleased with the finished work and are very proud to invite clients and colleagues to their new office.  Artworks have also worked on similar themes for their Edinburgh, Manchester, Milton Keynes and, most recently, Chichester offices.

Artworks’ Latest Investment Thursday, 22nd December 2011

Artworks have invested in yet more equipment to streamline their in-house production facility. Artworks always like to keep one step ahead of the competition, ensuring they meet customers’ needs and creating only the best possible finishes to their products.

Artworks’ new Laser cutter will cut virtually anything, including plastic, wooden plate, acrylic, paper, rubber and much, much more.  The advantages of using the Laser cutter over other cutting methods is that it can guarantee the smoothness and flatness of each cut cross- section, therefore eliminating the need for another process to finish each job.

Another new addition is the Double Mitre Saw, primarily for use within our framing department.  The advantage of this particular saw for Artworks is that it is completely enclosed. Therefore, as well as ensuring the accuracy of each cut, maximum safety is guaranteed along with a clean operation and diminished operating noise.

Artworks continue to invest in new equipment to ensure they deliver exceptional results in terms of precision and finish quality.  If you would like more information on what Artworks can do for you, call us on 0117 9666331.

A Place in History Tuesday, 25th October 2011

Artworks have recently had the privilege to complete works at 41 Spring Gardens in Manchester.  Designed by the celebrated Victorian Architect Alfred Waterhouse during the 12 years he was based in Manchester, this iconic Victorian gothic revival building has had its structure restored to its former 1890s glory.  

Artworks were appointed by main contractor and project designer Claremont Group Interiors to produce a signage package for the landmark building.  This included the design for the logo of the newly renamed building ‘Waterhouse, 41 Spring Gardens’. Artworks then manufactured the logo in stainless steel to be used as signage for the outside of the building along with internal signage on glass and a 3 dimensional sign made with acrylic lettering and powder coated aluminium.   The logo forms part of the building’s new identity and has been used in all the marketing material associated with the building.  Artworks also produced a large canvas measuring over 3.4 sq m and showing an image of the outside of the building.

Other works throughout the building completed by the main contractor included redesigning the reception area to create an elegant and contemporary space, while retaining all of the period features, repositioning the existing entrance doors to form a new access into a secure lobby, and creating a more spacious reception area. External works included cleaning the stone and re-spraying the windows.

The building displays all the period elegance and charm envisioned by the architect Alfred Waterhouse, but now combined with attractive flexible 21st century commercial office space and all situated within a most desirable location in central Manchester.  Each floor offers almost 4,000 sq ft of office accommodation, the project being completed over 16 weeks and finished on time and in budget.

Artworks to the Rescue Tuesday, 25th October 2011

The AA, or the 4th Emergency Service as they like to be known, called upon Artworks to complete works at their offices in both Oldbury and Preston. This follows on from a series of works that Artworks have completed for the AA over the past 2 years, the latest of of which has been commissioned by creative agency ‘The Direction’

Artworks manufactured and installed a range of products for the AA that included signage, digital wall-coverings, branded manifestations and glass drywipe boards (DrywipeArt). 

From brief through to installation, Artworks worked closely with both The Direction and the AA to propose products and finishes that would complement the designs created by The Direction.  To ensure minimal disruption for the end user, all installations were completed overnight; this ensured it was business as usual for the AA staff.

The end result is brightly decorated, branded, inspirational offices which have both feature and function; even the glass drywipe boards are printed and installed to blend seamlessly into the wallpaper.

State of the 'Art' Expansion …… The next chapter Tuesday, 25th October 2011

Back in the spring, building work started at Artworks to create a new mezzanine level enabling them to expand their existing premises by 165 sq m and house a purpose built finishing area and showroom.  Work is now complete and Artworks are opening their doors and showcasing their products.

To celebrate, Artworks are holding an Open Day on Friday 16th December, 12 noon onwards!

On display will be Artworks’ full range of products, whether they’ve been designed, printed, routed, engraved, lasered, zund cut, kiln fired, heat bent, flame polished, framed, edge banded, laminated, CAD cut, ...all created by Artworks.

Whether you’re a designer, architect or specifier, existing customer or new, the team at Artworks would like you to come along and find out more about our products and services, and see how we can help you now or in the future on your interior projects. 

If you would like to be included on the invite list please contact sales@artworks-solutions.com

Artworks complete their own Clinical Trial Tuesday, 20th September 2011

Artworks have just completed an installation for the world’s largest bio pharmaceutical services provider, Quintiles, at their new UK Headquarters at 500 Brook Drive in Reading’s Green Park development.  The building has been designed by architects Scott Brownrigg, and not only has it received the BCO regional award for Commercial Workplace, but it has also won the Office Agent Society award for Best Development outside London 2010. 
 
Artworks were brought in to complete the interior in conjunction with Scott Brownrigg Interior Design and main contractor Overbury Plc .  Designer Pino Catalano says, “Inspiration for the design came from the company ethos which is working for and with people”. This is evident in the design of the spaces and again is translated through the graphic treatment.  The design provides an inspirational and sustainable workplace for Quintiles and includes many specialist facilities: business lounge, restaurant, conference suite, training suite and coffee bar.

With graphics designed and supplied by Artworks Solutions the business lounge has full colour manifestations. The designs were taken from the Quintiles branding, and these, coupled with the brightly coloured furniture, make for a fresh and inspiring meeting space.

The breakout areas are themed with brightly coloured digital wall coverings and glass splash backs printed to create a relaxed environment. Cleverly hidden on selected walls are magnetic dry wipe boards which continue the images on from the digital wall coverings perfectly. 

The storage walls have been decorated with graphics, maximising the opportunity for branding in an open plan glass building. This, along with the 592 linear metres of manifestation, 3 branded glass dry wipe boards, directional signage in all the lift lobbies, magnetic Artwork and over 100 fire exit and door signs, complete the transformation into Quintiles’ new UK Headquarters.

The workspace will accommodate up to 800 staff and will support flexible working in both open plan workstations and cellular hot offices.

Baker Tilly gets an Artworks Facelift Tuesday, 20th September 2011

The Baker Tilly offices in Bath have just been transformed with the help of Artworks Solutions.  Working with the project designers Wylde Interior Architecture, the offices have been revamped using graphical treatments along with Baker Tilly branding and have been given a fresh, clean, modern look.  The emphasis in the Bath offices was on their surrounding area with the use of images from around Bath; these included two large Acoustic panels featuring Bath’s Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge, considered one of the most beautiful bridges in the world.

Included in the works at Baker Tilly were some bespoke wooden designs, created using Artworks 3D software packages to generate sculpted surfaces routed in-house at Artworks.  These panels have been used on storage wall doors, creating a three dimensional look. They have also been used to decorate the existing desks with motivational messages.  The same design has then been printed on to vinyl to create storage wall graphics, continuing the design throughout the offices.  The reception desk has been designed by Wylde IA and manufactured by Artworks to fit the existing area and includes a printed glass inlay and glass counter top.
 
The theme then continues throughout the office: there are printed glass splash backs and kick boards in the kitchens and branded graphics have been added to the cubicles and sink areas in the WCs, with a textured over laminate added to create a hygienic finish.

Baker Tilly is a returning customer for Artworks as we also completed works at Baker Tilly’s offices in Bristol back in 2008.

Artworks - Promoting your Business Tuesday, 20th September 2011

Promotion is one of the four elements of the marketing mix - product, price, promotion and place. It is the communication link between sellers and buyers for the purpose of influencing, informing, or persuading a potential buyer's purchasing decision.

Due to constant demand from regular clients requesting Artworks to extend their graphical treatments onto promotional materials, Artworks have launched PromoArt.  

PromoArt includes items such as roller banner stands, exhibition panels, pop up stands and much much more… Artworks are continually developing new ideas and bespoke ways to promote your business. 

There is no better way to publicise yourself - a modern, clean banner will make your brand, product or company stand out from the crowd, and we have a host of eye catching styles to choose from.

Our recent PromoArt customers include Toyota, Stihl, The Running School, Lexus and Sita, where we have supplied a variety of promotional products including roller banner stands, pop up stands, flags, promotional labels and stickers, and cardboard engineered products.

To find out more about PromoArt call us now on T 0117 9666 331 or E: sales@artworks-solutions.com.

 

Reckitt Benckiser gets the Artworks treatment Tuesday, 16th August 2011

Artworks have a longstanding relationship with Reckitt Benckiser, having worked extensively on the firm’s sites around the world; their latest installation was at their head office on the outskirts of London.

With some of the world’s most powerful brands being sold in over 180 countries it is imperative that communication and understanding of their market is clear to consumer and staff alike. This is why the design concept for the breakout areas within Reckitt Benckiser’s head office is focused on the consumer and not on the product.  Reckitt Benckiser’s Sendra Van Roon and her team produced the design concept; they then briefed the Artworks designers who visualised their concepts and produced the finished designs.

On the 1st floor you are wowed by the collaboration room in the style of a New York loft apartment complete with brick walls and panoramic views of New York, all made from digital wallpaper.  An Indian theme is portrayed in the kitchen area which has printed glass splash-backs designed to look like tiles with the most intricate detail.  On the second floor they have chosen a Brazilian theme, presented on printed glass splash-backs in the kitchen and on manifestations in the breakout area, along with framed artwork with South American origins.  Also included in the works were 26 branded acrylic screens, floor to ceiling magnetic glass drywipe partitions, and other digital wallcovering and manifestations throughout the first two floors of the building.  

Artworks, which are renowned for taking the brief all the way from concept through to installation, then manufactured and installed the products within tight deadlines.

Another Acoustic Installation by Artworks Tuesday, 16th August 2011

Castle Park Primary School in Monmouthshire is the latest school to be benefiting from AcousticArt from Artworks Solutions.

Castle Park Primary School’s new extension consists of a brand new Learning Plaza accommodating 60 pupils.  The design of the plaza has been developed through consultation with the staff and students, Monmouthshire Council, the design team White Design Associates and the main contractor Willmott Dixon.  The innovative new Learning Plaza is one of the first school buildings in the UK to make use of prefabricated straw bale panels; the primary focus of the build was to increase sustainability whilst reducing its carbon footprint.

Influences for materials have been taken from the School’s and Council’s request for sustainable and innovative technologies and deliberately contrast with those of the existing school.  A sound-absorbing ceiling has been used throughout in order to achieve an improvement in the intelligibility of speech. All the materials selected reduce the sound reverberation time within the building.  This is where Artworks came in. Following a workshop with the School Council, the Client and White Design, Artworks designed, manufactured and installed 13.5m2 of acoustic artworks, and in keeping with the School’s nature theme the acoustic panels have been printed with leaf structures and colour-coordinated to match the environment.

Sally Turner from Monmouthshire’s 21st Century Schools Team first reaction to the AcousticArt was, “Wow, they look absolutely amazing!”

Within the Learning Plaza, the space is divided into a number of zones for large and small group work, presentation & performance, light science and art. In addition there are two cloakroom areas, a quiet pod space, and internal storage.  The children and staff from Castle Park Primary will start benefiting from the new learning plaza when they start the new school year in September.

StorewallArt – Adding personality to the office environment Tuesday, 16th August 2011

Today’s offices demand a clean, fresh finish and interior designers are constantly challenged to deliver solutions for the office environment that are both good looking and functional.
 
StorewallArt from Artworks is the perfect solution!

StorewallArt is a vibrant, branded, design-led, two-part product solution for storage wall and folding door applications.  Applying graphics to storage areas is an excellent opportunity either to communicate a specific branding message or to create a decorative feature within today’s working environments.  

Artworks can design a graphic to suit your theme or you can choose from the millions of images Artworks have access to.  Storage wall graphics can be applied to a wide range of surfaces. They offer long term durability in areas that receive higher than average traffic (such as around handles) and have excellent anti de-lamination properties. 

This is an area of increasing popularity with our clients because of the often limited wall space for artwork, and it is a way of blending an often aesthetically uninspiring product into the workplace, adding personality to the office environment.  Artworks customers already benefiting from StorewallArt include Bristol Grammar School, McDonald’s and Quintiles.

To find out more about StorewallArt please contact us on T 01179 666331 or E sales@artworks-solutions.com

Artworks Deliver a World Class Solution Sunday, 24th July 2011

LinuxIT, the leaders in Linux and Open-Source software and specialist services, have moved to new HQ offices in Bristol.

The move creates the UK’s ‘Open-Source Hub.’ A recognition of Bristol and its pivotal role in leading Open-Source adoption, the role of LinuxIT, the pioneering Open-Source policy of Bristol City Council and the relevance of Open-Source to local and regional businesses such as those in the media, technology public and private sectors.

LinuxIT provides Technology, Consultancy, Resourcing, Technology and Support. They have gained their specialist skills over the past 12 years in enterprise class and indemnified community Open–Source and Open–Standards technology. This, together with best fit proprietary technology solutions, provides a cost effective, reliable, secure and future proofed integrated IT system – a comprehensive world class service.

Artworks Solutions were brought in to ensure that their finished offices were as world class as their service.

“Communicating the LinuxIT brand was key,” explains Peter Dawes-Huish, CEO and founder of LinuxIT. “We chose Artworks Solutions because they were highly recommended to us by 3Sphere. Immediately we could see we had made the right decision: Artworks’ understanding of our brand and how important it is to us in our new journey was evident from the beginning. They were responsive, creative and helpful through every stage of the process from the initial meeting through to the installation. In addition to this, Artworks were able to provide a solution to our desk dividers when our original supplier could not”.

Artworks’ brief was to supply a complete internal and external branding package throughout LinuxIT’s new headquarters. Products included a bespoke feature wall made using CNC technology to create texture, complete with LinuxIT’s logo and finished using motivational text in aluminium.  Other products supplied included a white ink and simulated frosted design for manifestations, desk dividers, acrylic internal signs with stainless steel fixings, meeting room plaques, external signage and car park signs.

Everything was designed and manufactured in house and installed by one of the Artworks installation teams.

Corporate Art Works….. Sunday, 24th July 2011

The idea of ‘Art for Offices’ is not new, but because of advancements in digital printing it has become extremely popular.  Some large corporate organisations even employ specialist corporate art consultants to advise on the most effective use of corporate artwork. For example, boardrooms are places for meetings, but often the boardroom is also where you present your company, so your choice of artwork here is as important as choices made for all your other furnishings and fittings.

ImageArt is Artworks Solutions’ own corporate art product, and a great way to improve the look and mood of your workplace.  It works well in many respects. Images can carry a corporate brand or message, and this is a powerful way to reach out to visitors and staff alike with a sense of what the company stands for and how it does business. It has also been suggested that paintings in spaces lower blood pressure and heart rate, this combined can make for a better working environment.

Artworks supply the complete package. From the customer’s original brief we will search out fabulous images from our various sources, and these can be graphically enhanced to match your specification. Then, using a variety of in-house high quality finishing services (including custom made frames, canvas wraps, reverse printed glass or acrylic, kiln fired glass, aluminum, photographic, illuminated, and acoustic options along with many other bespoke solutions), we manufacture the artwork to suit your environment perfectly.

Styles range from traditional to contemporary, and everything in between.

To find out more about ImageArt call us now on T 0117 9666 331 or E: sales@artworks-solutions.com.

Focus on Artworks Sunday, 24th July 2011

You probably already know that Artworks Solutions is a multi disciplined, design-led manufacturer of corporate branding products and services, digitally printed bespoke graphics and decorative solutions for the workplace environment. 

However, did you know that:-

►Artworks make bespoke promotional structures for a variety of clients, all commissions are designed and manufactured in house at their works in Bristol.

►Artworks produce promotional advertising items on a large scale, such as Pop Up and Roller Banner stands.  The Artworks touch is essential especially if you want to print something a little out of the ordinary.

►Artworks have a flat bed kiln capable of reaching temperatures of up to 1050 degrees centigrade.  This is where their renowned Kiln fired glass is produced.

►Artworks has its own Swiss made Zünd finishing machine, one of the most advanced pieces of finishing equipment in Europe. ‘This isn’t just a question of being able to cut bigger sizes of materials, but also a wider range of materials with more precision.  

►Artworks have their own in house graphic design team; design is the key element in much of what Artworks offer.

►Artworks print onto Acrylic, Wood, Aluminium, Glass, Textured Glass, Canvas, Fabric, Paper, Card, Laminates, Vinyl…..  In fact we print onto anything that is flat and will fit through the printer.

►You can purchase Artworks stand alone products and have them designed/branded to fit your theme, for example PinArt, DrywipeArt, and Image Art.

If you would like more information on any Artworks products and services, call us on 01179 666331 or email sales@artworks-solutions.com

A Gargantuan Chapter in Bristol Grammar School's Library Tuesday, 28th June 2011

Artworks Solutions have developed a long-standing relationship with Bristol Grammar School, and in collaboration with Wylde IA have successfully completed a number of projects at the school, the latest of which is the Library. 

The project was inspired by Bristol Grammar School’s special relationship with Penguin Books, as its founder Allan Lane was educated at the school in the early 1900s.

Ben Tavener, Facilities Manager at the school, attended a workshop here at Artworks held by Tracey Wylde from Wylde IA and Dave Nowell of Artworks, and this opened up a number of possibilities for design.  Although Artworks have been working with Bristol Grammar School for some time, this was Ben’s first visit to their showroom.  Artworks showcased a range of graphical, branding and decorative solutions in a number of environments, all designed and manufactured in house.  As a result of the workshop it was decided that by using Artworks’ expertise in cardboard engineering and advanced framing equipment, along with their PinArt product, the ethos of the school could be captured, thereby enhancing the traditions of the school as well as its modern and progressive approach.

The new library is truly inspiring. As you enter, you can’t help but notice the giant size three-dimensional books that are suspended at various angles from the back wall, all perfect replicas of famous works, including Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ and William Shakespeare’s ‘The Sonnets and A Lover’s Complaint’.  As the perfect finishing touch, each book has a giant bookmark inside, itself a version of the bookmarks used by the Bristol Grammar School students.  

Incorporated into the design are 40 metres of printed pin board with various functions, including cladding the reception desk and bookshelf ends and providing visually enhanced notice board areas both inside and outside the library.  Also framed and mounted on the wall are printed canvases of some of Penguins original book covers. 

All the artwork for the library was created from scans of the original books supplied by Penguin. These have been enlarged and digitally enhanced by Artworks to create the final images.  The end result has been well received by both staff and students at Bristol Grammar School.

Artworks have Struck Oil Tuesday, 28th June 2011

Artworks have just completed an installation for one of the leading pan-African independent exploration and production companies, Afren Plc.  Founded in 2004, and with a portfolio now extending to 29 assets in 11 countries, they currently produce the equivalent of circa 22000 barrels of oil per day.  Owing to continued growth in production they have expanded their offices in London’s Pall Mall and have taken on an extra floor.

Working in conjunction with Concept 4, Artworks’ brief was to continue the branding and themes from their existing offices on the 3rd floor into their new offices on the 6th floor. 

Afren were aware they had acoustic issues within their meeting rooms, and Artworks were able to offer the solution.  Using their expert knowledge of acoustics, Artworks calculated the quantity of acoustic panelling required to reduce significantly the level of reflected sound and to dampen both echo and reverberation.
Inspiration for the design of the acoustic canvases came from Afren’s existing artwork, the design team at Artworks digitally creating designs in the style of Afren’s artworks on the 3rd floor.   The end result combined acoustic performance with artistic imagery, adding function to what would ordinarily be considered merely a decorative solution. 

Artworks also designed, manufactured and installed kiln-fired glass signage and manifestations for the reception area, along with a branded glass dry-wipe board for their meeting room.

Artworks - Bringing art to the big screen Tuesday, 28th June 2011

Artworks have developed a range of practical product solutions for tensile screens, structures and displays. Various materials can be suspended to offer permanent or demountable screening.  Single or double-sided graphics offer unlimited design opportunities.

Not only is ScreenArt an attractive feature in its own right, tensile screen structures also enable you to divide spaces and create privacy without detracting from the layout of the building.   Further functionality can be added in the form of dry wipe surfaces, with or without a design, or interchangeable display areas for easy changing of posters etc.

A number of companies are already benefiting from ScreenArt.  The charity, Action for Children has used branded screens at their offices in both London and Watford. They have a range of interchangeable mesh screens printed to both sides and printed screens with a magnetic dry-wipe finish.   Whereas Reckitt Benckiser opted for screens made from PET-G, these toughened acrylic screens create privacy and division in an open plan office, with the added benefit of communicating their company branding.  A more formal use of ScreenArt was at The Highways Agency HQ, where Artworks supplied in excess of 60 screens made from an acoustic fabric totalling 108 linear metres.

To find out more about ScreenArt or to request sample media for a specific project requirement call us now on T 0117 9666 331 or E: sales@artworks-solutions.com.

PZ Cussons Headquarters wins 'Best Fit-out of Workplace Award' Sunday, 22nd May 2011

We are delighted to announce that at the BCO Northern Regional Awards 2011 PZ Cussons Headquarters in Manchester scooped up the award for best Fit-out of Workplace, with judges praising the building for creating a workplace that is vibrant, inspiring and flexible, allowing employees to choose where they would prefer to work within the building.   Artworks, worked in conjunction with TBWA and Architects CB Richard Ellis, to design manufacture and install bespoke products, branding and decorative finishes.  The Artworks products included;- etched film manifestation, feature wall made from solid black walnut and CNC machined, printed fabric acoustic walls and digital wall-covering, printed glass screens, printed magnetic glass dry wipe display.

To see the full case study click here

The Car in Front is a Toyota - 'Engineered by Artworks' Wednesday, 18th May 2011

Rising prices have made fuel economy a hot topic, so it's perfect timing for Toyota to be promoting the benefits of its hybrids - present and future.

Drivers are being encouraged to put the fuel efficiency of Toyota's Prius and Auris hybrid to the test in a challenge to see who can achieve the best mpg. Toyota centres across the UK are hosting the competition, each with their own set route and time limit. A Top Gear-style leader board will keep track of the local results, with prizes going to each centre's best-performing entrant.

Working in conjunction with EMO Artworks supplied 192 Top Gear-style leader-boards for Toyota!  The leader boards are a printed cardboard engineered structure with a magnetic panel to one side.  These were then distributed across the country.

Artworks were able to utilise their in house team to design and manufacture the leader boards, they were printed on Artworks Vutek direct-to-substrate printer and cut using the latest G3 Zund finishing table. Thanks to Artworks shift system and their wiliness to work over the weekend the leader boards were not only produced within the tight timescales they were also delivered ahead of schedule.

If you would like more information on what point of sale promotional materials Artworks can produce for you, from  packing containers and display units to creating models and generating promotional merchandising solutions call us on 01179 666331 or e mail sales@artworks-solutions.com

State of the 'Art' Expansion Wednesday, 18th May 2011

Work has now started at Artworks to expand their existing premises, the new space will substantially increase the size of its facilities by 165sqm.

With the steady increase of business, space has become very tight, and Artworks directors have taken the decision to build an additional mezzanine level upstairs, giving the manufacturing department more room to house a purpose-built finishing area.

Extensive renovations will be made to outfit the facility enabling Artworks to utilise the space most effectively, whilst the floor space will be a major part of the busy operation, the wall space will be used as a gallery for a range of Artworks products.

Managing Director John Sulzmann said "The additional space will allow us to grow and expand the business over the next few years. We are under pressure from both new and existing clients, it has become essential to have available a wider range of material stock to deliver the ever-increasing demand and quick turnaround of bespoke products”. 

The demand for Artworks services has continued to grow as clients are seeing the real value this brings to their business.  Contact Artworks to discuss your ideas and explore how they can assist your organisation.

Follow the progress of Artworks building works on Facebook! 

The Art of Glass Wednesday, 18th May 2011

Interiors are rapidly changing quickly swallowing up new ideas; whilst clients are demanding much more in terms of individual design and service. 

Artworks Solutions are at the forefront of design and the use of glass, particularly in the office environment where maintaining the level of natural light can be an issue.  But because of the reflective capabilities of glass this can be achieved with the added potential to create visually stunning features. Artworks product GlassArt gives real insights into what is possible with the use of glass.  

Offering exciting possibilities as a design element in a wide range of interior and exterior architectural applications, whether it be kiln fired textured glass or glass with inter-laminated graphics, either way its has unique ability to perform as a decorative feature, as well as a functional and structural building material.

GlassArt provides inspiration for virtually every part of your workplace environment. These include working systems of: printed kitchen splash backs and countertops, dividing screens, signage, artwork panels, table tops, feature walls, multimedia furniture, wall art made from photographic glass or artistic images.

Artworks have designed and produced GlassArt for many clients they include McDonalds, Marks and Spencer, Macquarie, Dolby and Action for Children.

Artworks make the whole project happen, from design through to completion, providing a full installation service.

For information on GlassArt call us on 0117 9666331 or email sales@artworks-solutions.com

Artworks - New Appointments Wednesday, 18th May 2011

Artworks are pleased to announce they have appointed 2 new employees to strengthen the in-house production facility, Les Du Cann and Matt Freeman. Les and Matt both have a strong background in graphics production, application and installation. They also demonstrated the key qualities that Artworks require to be part of the team moving forward.

Building the Worksmart Brand Tuesday, 22nd March 2011

A woman in China wanted to buy a car. As is true in almost any market place, you get a better deal if you can buy in volume. So she listed her intention on a large Chinese social network and asked if anyone in the area wanted to go into a local dealership and buy the same car. Maybe, she reasoned, if we buy two, we’ll get a better price. Two weeks later 55 people walked into that dealership and bought 55 cars. That, I think, is the real potential for group purchasing. 

Balfour Beatty have realised their potential for group purchasing and have opened a brand new Customer Shared Service Centre in Newcastle, which will pool knowledge and expertise across the Group. The building is a purpose built office boasting 42,000 square feet of office space.  The new state-of-the-art facility has now been fully fitted out featuring a number of environmental innovations. 

Artworks, working in conjunction with Wylde Interior Architecture, were brought in to complete the design, manufacture and installation of the interior branding of the building where the brief was to translate the new “Worksmart” brand designed by Workroom into the working environment.  Artworks were able to utilise their production methods and techniques to deliver a wide range of products to the office environment at Balfour Beatty Worksmart.

The project consisted of products including signage, acoustics, wallpaper, splashbacks, graphics, engraved pin boards, printed drywipe boards, textured glass and canvas artwork, all branded and including a full package of services from consultancy and design through to installation.

The finished building is a bright, inspirational and highly functional working environment featuring many of the Artworks signature products.

A Perfect Translation Tuesday, 22nd March 2011

At the last count Bristol had about 50,000 students and around ten per cent of those are thought to have come from overseas. I’m sure this is why EC Language has announced it has chosen Bristol to open its fourth English language school in the country, and its tenth across the world.

The firm has taken three floors of the biggest building in one of the most prestigious addresses in Bristol city centre.  Local company Artworks Solutions worked with EC Language Bristol and Architects AWW to highlight particular areas within the school, to make them both functional and inspirational and to enhance the students’ learning.  Artworks supplied both aluminium and acrylic signage, manifestations and digital wallpaper, all installed to the highest standard.   

Artworks is used to tight deadlines and quick turnarounds, with the English Language Centre being no exception - the artwork for the digital wallpaper was signed off by the client the night before it had to be installed. Fortunately Artworks operate a shift system and this, along with the speed of the Artworks Vutek printer, meant that everything was produced and installed on time. 

Keeping the Noise Down Tuesday, 22nd March 2011

Open plan office environments are becoming more and more popular. Not only do they save space and fit more people, but they are often more efficient. Unfortunately what comes with that is the background noise. According to a report from the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), people enjoy a 38 per cent improvement in their ability to perform many tasks if they work in a workplace where acoustic conditions have been optimised. The same survey also reported that people perform 16 per cent better in memory tests and 40 per cent better in mental arithmetic tests when they aren’t disrupted by undue noise. Other reports go even further; A study published in the British Journal of Psychology has highlighted the role that ‘irrelevant noise’ plays not only in disrupting work, but also in increasing stress levels and decreasing job satisfaction, so steps must be taken to ensure noise levels are at a suitable level, and therefore office productivity kept high.

Artworks have the solution, AcousticArt. This is a unique product that effectively combines acoustic performance with artistic imagery. The high performance acoustic panels are cleverly hidden within the artworks, adding function to what would ordinarily be considered merely a decorative solution.  

Our acoustic panels can absorb up to 95% of reverberation hitting them.  To put this in context, a typical bare wall has just a 3-5% absorption rate, a carpet 20-30%, stone 5-10%, double glazing 2-3%.  The panels have a porous surface which partially absorb and trap sound waves, thereby reducing echo and reverberation and ultimately deadening the sound.

Artworks have already designed, manufactured and installed AcousticArt for a number of clients including the Visitor Centre at Lullingston Country Park, the music rooms at Bristol Grammar School and the atrium style reception area at Balfour Beatty in Newcastle. 

Artworks have access to over 14 million images and can provide various edge finishes to your AcousticArt; this is an excellent cost effective solution with beautiful results.

To find out more about AcousticArt please contact us on T 01179 666331 or E sales@artworks-solutions.com

Scouse and Home - Artworks completes installation at one of the worlds most successfull football clubs Wednesday, 23rd February 2011

Artworks has just completed an installation at the home of one of the most successful clubs in world football, Liverpool FC. Work has been completed on a number of facilities including in the club’s new offices in Liverpool City Centre, the new Boot Room restaurant at Anfield and the club’s state of the art training facilities at Melwood. The installations have been carried as part of a strategic plan for the club’s facilities and were completed on time and on budget.

The consolidation of Liverpool’s offices away from Anfield into the city centre opened up a number of new commercial possibilities at the stadium. One of these was the opening of The Boot Room. The 230 seat restaurant draws on the club’s rich heritage to provide a unique matchday experience for supporters.  But it is not there just to serve fans lunch on their way into the ground, nor is it a dedicated facility for Anfield. According to Steve Hartley, the head of design at Liverpool, The Boot Room is there to operate as a standalone business, something that could function independently if Liverpool make their long talked about move to a new stadium or as part of a chain of restaurants.

With graphics supplied by Artworks Solutions, The Boot Room draws on elements of the Liverpool identity in a number of ways in the design of the space. The approach by Artworks was to create something that was unmistakeably bound up with the traditions and identity of the club. A graphic wall made of studs create a striking visual identity on one wall in the bar area.

The club identity is also evident in the Artworks installation at the new offices space. The reception area includes a player history wall and a representation of the club’s honours. Inside the offices, there is a football theme to many of the surfaces including a manifestation on the partitions between the open plan and breakout areas.  Meeting rooms are named after former managers with the appropriate manifestations reflecting their successes.

The themes are extended to the club’s training facilities at Melwood with graphics and displays by Artworks. The installation was carried out in parallel with those at the new offices and Boot Room and included a Liverpool club crest in the players meeting room, digital wallpaper, banners, manifestations in both the public areas and gym and branded drywipe boards for training and meeting areas. The drywipe boards incorporate a map of Europe and a Champions League crest to make sure that everybody is focussed on the objectives of the training ground.

According to Seath Herbert of Artworks, the installation was carried out to ensure that there was no interruption of any sort the players’ training schedule. ‘The important thing was that the project was managed properly,’ he says. ‘This meant preparing materials properly, carrying out a full site inspection and installing so that the players wouldn’t even know we were there. What they did know when they arrived for training was that the space had been transformed by the graphics.

Setting the Standard Wednesday, 23rd February 2011

STIHL has been setting the standard for chainsaws and other garden power tools for 80 years, and has over 35,000 Dealers in more than 160 countries. STIHL were foundered in Germany in 1926 and prides themselves on the excellence and craftsmanship of their products, so when it came to producing point of sale promotional material they needed a company that could not only manage the volume required but could also produce and deliver within very tight timescales.

Artworks was perfectly suited to supply STIHL with the 3000 banners complete with fixings and packaging, along with 1200 easy peel decals, 900 window decals and 6000 shelf wobblers that they required.  Using the equipment that Artworks have invested in over the past 12 years including our VUTEK QS3220 wide format digital printer and the Swiss made Zünd finishing machine, (one of the most advanced pieces of finishing equipment in Europe) we were able produce everything in house.  And with the aid of our split shift patterns at our manufacturing facility everything could be produced and delivered on time.

Artworks in conjunction with EMO ensured that STIHL’s promotional products were produced with the same level of excellence and craftsmanship of that of their own products. 

If you would like more information on what point of sale promotional materials Artworks can produce for you, call us on 01179 666331 or e mail sales@artworks-solutions.com

PinArt - Artworks transform the humble pinboard Wednesday, 23rd February 2011

In the workplace and other buildings, we often take for granted many of the things that surround us. But we don’t have to accept the mundane. Artworks have applied new ideas to make the working environment not only more attractive but more productive too. This is the philosophy that drives us to innovate in every aspect of our products and services.

Our latest innovation is PinArt which transforms the humble pinboard from an element in the workplace that is all too easy take for granted into a vibrant, branded, design led solution that helps you to improve your communications and performance.

PinArt is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with any environment. Because it can be designed to your exact standards in terms of both design and specification and because it is fixable on a wide range of surfaces, it will complement not only the identity of your workplace but also the way you work. It is produced using Forbo’s innovative world-class Bulletin Board® technology and is backed by Artwork’s exceptional service levels and design flair.

A number of Artworks clients are already enjoying the benefits of PinArt. Balfour Beatty has used branded PinArt pinboards in its new offices in Manchester and Newcastle. The Newcastle installation incorporated some 40 linear metres of printed upstands with edge trim and cut outs.

But it’s not just offices that can benefit from PinArt. Bristol Grammar School commissioned Artworks to provide a range of custom branded pinboards across the school campus, offering not only an immediate and informal way of communicating information but also a strong sense of identity for each department.

Similarly, an installation of 140 branded PinArt boards at Bristol University’s Hawthorns Halls of Residence offers instant access to information to the students who live there.

For more information on PinArt please contact us on 01179 666331 or email sales@artworks-solutions.com

Natural Choice - Artworks helps Environment Agency to display its green credentials at new Bristol HQ Thursday, 20th January 2011

When it came to creating its new Bristol home, the Environment Agency knew it not only had to meet the very highest standards of environmental design and management for the building, but also had to wear its green credentials on its sleeve.

Its choice of Horizon House in the heart of Bristol came as no surprise. Not only was this one of the City’s key regeneration projects, it was already intended by builder Sir Robert McAlpine to set new standards in sustainable construction. Over 85 percent of the materials from the building demolished to make way for the development was recycled in situ or taken away to be used in other developments.

Other features include rainwater collecting to cut water consumption, intelligent lighting systems to cut electricity use, natural ventilation and a ground source heat pump, photovoltaic cells and a solar hot water system to reduce heating and cooling costs. The sourcing of materials has been based on both recycling content and supply distances as well as the environmental policies of the suppliers.

The upshot is that not only is this a model of sustainable building design and construction, Horizon House was awarded the highest score ever awarded by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) for its environmental credentials, making it the greenest building in the UK.

 But that is only half of the story. As one of the most important champions of sustainability in the UK, it was not enough for the Environment Agency to act on its principles. It also had to be seen to be acting on them. So when it came to developing of the visual identity for the new building, it turned to Artworks Solutions to get the messages across.

Not only is Artworks a locally based firm, it also had appropriate environmental credentials and a proven track record of working with end users on designing and implementing powerful visual messages in workplaces.

At Horizon House, Artworks worked with the Environment Agency and its designers on an integrated approach that incorporates icons and colours from the Agency’s brand identity. The striking reception area is unmistakeably themed around the environment, with branded glazed panels establishing the identity throughout the building.    

In addition, the visuals are designed to help staff and visitors to find their way around the 70,000 square feet of offices. The use of visual clues at anchor points throughout the building typifies the intelligent approach taken by the Environment Agency in partnership with Artworks.

Artworks Solutions announces partnership with 3M Thursday, 20th January 2011

Artworks Solutions, the UK’s leading provider of branded solutions for the built environment has announced a new partnership with global technology and materials giant 3M. The deal sees Artworks become the first company in the UK to become a 3M Interior Specialist. As an affiliated partner Artworks will have access to the most advanced 3M products and technology. In return 3M will be working with one of the country’s best known and innovative branding specialists. 

As part of the partnership the Artworks installation team have been trained to fit 3M products to the highest standards. These include products such as DI-NOC™ self-adhesive film, Clear View graphic film and textured wall vinyl. The two companies will be working together on offering finished solutions to Artworks growing portfolio of customers in the workplace, retail, education and hospitality sectors.

Commenting on the partnership, Artworks Managing Director John Sulzmann said: ‘We have been working with 3M for a number of years and are delighted to be able to develop our relationship with them to the next level. The new partnership can only benefit customers who will not only draw on the resources of a global innovator in the field of material technology but also the expertise and experience of a dedicated team of designers and installation engineers at a local level in the UK.’

Cut and Dried - How customised drywipe boards can add value to an organisation Thursday, 20th January 2011

Drywipe boards need no introduction. They are a ubiquitous feature in the business landscape, their popularity accelerated in recent years by the growth in the importance of team and interactive work. We can take elements like this for granted. But boards can be elevated from the mundane with some imagination and the application of modern printing techniques.

Artworks Solutions uses the latest digital printing technology to include imagery and text on glass and specialist laminate surfaces. This offers a number of benefits.

• Because drywipe boards are an important interactive tool in meeting rooms and presentation suites, branding them can be an extremely cost effective and powerful way of communicating identities and values to customers and employees.
• The use of colours on drywipe boards can integrate them into the design of a room or floor. Not only is this important in terms of their visual appeal, the use of colour to signify to people where they are in a building is an important feature in contemporary workplace design.
• Customised designs can also be used for boards for specific tasks, for example to incorporate tables, graphs or headings. Modern printing techniques make this a straightforward and cost effective option.

Two firms that demonstrate the effectiveness of customised drywipe boards are Balfour Beatty and Acxiom.

Balfour Beatty is an internationally renowned infrastructure services business. It recently opened its new National Operations Centre in Salford Quays in Manchester and Artworks Solutions was brought in to produce solutions for a number of key areas of the building’s design. Amongst these was the provision of custom drywipe boards throughout the offices. These boards not only allow people to share and develop ideas in both formal and informal settings, but are also branded with the same identity that are used in the rest of the building.

More formal but no less striking are the custom drywipe boards created by Artworks for the new London offices of marketing services firm Acxiom. Artworks supplied 39 customised drywipe boards including penholders for the meeting rooms of the firm, which relies on collaborative work to deliver the best solutions for its clients.

A Good Year Thursday, 9th December 2010

A Good Year

At this time of year, it’s inevitable that you look back on what has happened over the previous twelve months. Not only are we starting to see the first undisguised signs of a economic recovery, some companies even managed to thrive in spite of the harsh conditions.

We at Artworks have enjoyed a record-breaking year during 2010. Not only have we enjoyed an increase in sales - up by around 70 per cent over the past twelve months – but we have also continued to invest in employees, machinery and services. I don’t think for one moment that the two are unconnected.

The past year saw the number of people employed by Artworks increase to 23.  We introduced shift patterns at our manufacturing facility to allow us to cope with demand, and the purchase of a fleet of new vans helped us to provide a complete range of delivery and installation services to a growing customer base. 
In addition we have been able to introduce new management systems to provide even better levels of service to customers and a range of products offering them an unparalleled level of choice to meet almost any requirement.

One of the most exciting developments this year has been the growing interest in our range of functional artwork including bespoke glass, drywipe boards, pinboards and screens. Artworks have pioneered the use of these applications which are not only beautiful but offer an added level of sophistication and functionality to the working environment.

Order levels are still extremely healthy and with our continued investment in new products and services, there is absolutely no reason why we shouldn’t expect to continue to flourish through 2011 and beyond.

John Sulzmann
Managing Director

Special Relationship Thursday, 9th December 2010

Special Relationship

Oscar Wilde once famously claimed that "the Americans and the British are identical in all respects except, of course, their language". Ironically, the fact that this gag still works as well on both sides of the pond as it did over a hundred years ago says something about the enduring close relationship between the US and the UK. We have far more that unites us than divides us.

It was this sense of kinship that saw our designers and fitters from Artworks crossing the Atlantic during the summer to complete an installation at the New Jersey offices of global giant Reckitt Benckiser.

Artworks have a longstanding relationship with Reckitt Benckiser, having worked extensively on the firm’s sites around the world including its global head office on the outskirts of London. Reckitt Benckiser has operations in 180 countries and owns some of the most powerful brands in the world including Harpic, Dettol, Airwick and Finish. So it is very important for them to work with companies who they can trust to represent those brands correctly and deliver exceptional service levels at all times.

Although Artworks had previously shipped products overseas before to be installed by local technicians, the New Jersey project had its own challenges in terms of timescales and installation that meant office services manager Sendra Van Roon called on Artworks to complete the installation personally. The challenge was to deliver and install a complete package of products and services to an exacting specification in New Jersey within ten days of the designs being signed off.

The project included photographing products and providing design proposals, including elevation drawings, followed by the production of tensile screens, digital glass manifestations, digital wall coverings, acrylic artworks and a reception display. But that was only half of the story, as the Artworks teams were tasked to ensure that the installation was carried out to an exacting specification and without a hitch some 3,500 miles away.  ‘Branding is central to everything that Reckitt Benckiser stands for,’ explains Sendra van Roon. ‘It is essential that we work in partnership with companies who understand our values and our brands and are able to work creatively and efficiently to reflect those values. Artworks are a perfect example of how this relationship works and we knew we could rely on them to deliver exceptional results, even halfway around the world.’

If you would like more information about the products and services available from Artworks, contact us on 0117 953 2233.

Making a Splash Thursday, 9th December 2010

Making a Splash

Digital printing has transformed the world around us in many ways. It surrounds us in more ways than we could have imagined in the past, providing us with more attractive surroundings and conveying subtle messages about the brands and values of organisations and environments.

Take the humble splashback, once limited by the finishes of the materials from which it was made, but now transformed by digital printing technology, adding colour and visual interest to a wide range of environments including offices, schools, hotels, shops and laboratories.

Artworks have pioneered a more creative approach to splashback design. Recent installations include ‘boutique’ style bathroom splashback and vanity units at the Bristol University’s Wedding and Conference facility at Goldney Hall, Bristol Grammar School, Balfour Beatty Workplace and Action for Children.

The base material in each case is low iron toughened safety glass from Artworks’ own Vitreo range. This is cut to any shape, including with socket cut-outs, safety backed with silver foil and finished with ultraviolet cured, high quality colour digital print directly on the glass.

This offers not only an extremely cost-effective, durable and hygienic surface, but also complete control over imagery and finish, allowing for creative solutions that are perfectly suited to the unique requirements of each environment.

If you would like more information on Artworks splashbacks or any other elements of its Vitreo range, please call us on 0117 953 2233.

In Our Nature Thursday, 28th October 2010

In Our Nature

There is a running joke within IBM that their buildings don’t have windows, they have something called outside awareness ports. It’s an idea that not only reflects the culture of long hours spent staring at computer screens - something you don’t have to work for IBM to be aware of - but also one that acknowledges our need to be aware of the wider world when we are at work.

Our gut instinct tells us that we are better off either outdoors or looking at it. There’s a very good reason why we feel better after some fresh air and some sunshine. It’s in our nature.

The research backs our gut instinct. A few years ago, a groundbreaking study into what make us productive at work was published by researchers Adrian Leaman and Bill Bordass. What they found, based on extensive research into a number of organisations, is that there are a number of ‘killer variables’ that affect productivity at work.

What is especially interesting is that of the eight most important variables, two of them were identified as a ‘pleasant working environment’ and ‘a level of outside awareness’. In other words, our visual surroundings make us happier, less stressed and help us to work better.

Being aware of the wider world makes us more productive. It’s a simple fact. Now, the best way of achieving this is, of course, going for a walk outside or at the very least looking out of the window. But there’s also a good reason why firms are enthusiastically increasing the number of natural images they use in the workplace. They know it makes their employees happier and more productive.

It’s certainly something we are increasingly aware of in our work with clients. While many already know just how important natural imagery can be, what many of them are now discovering is just what can be achieved in terms of bringing a little bit of the great outdoors into their buildings using modern designs and materials.

Graphical quality and reproduction is now so exceptional that images are completely lifelike. Modern materials and processes bring images to life. In addition, it is often possible to texturise surfaces to reproduce natural materials such as wood and stone so convincingly that it can be hard to tell the graphic from the real thing.

What is important is being aware of what can be achieved. So if you would like more information about the processes and materials available to meet your goals, contact us on 0117 953 2233.

Back to School Thursday, 21st October 2010

Back to School

Artworks Solutions in collaboration with Wylde Interior Architecture, has recently completed an installation of its products at the refurbishment of part of Bristol Grammar School. Artworks was able to meet a demanding brief for the 500 year old school, expressing key ideas about the school’s identity and working within an exact time frame that did not disrupt the school year. Artworks supplied a range of products including signage, acoustics, wallpaper, splashbacks, graphics and presentation boards for the new Sports Centre, banners and engraved pin boards; all branded and including  a full package of services including consultancy, design and installation. 

The school takes in pupils from the age of 4 right through to 18 and prides itself on its strong ideals. ‘The essential part of the brief was for us to express the identity of the school,’ explains John Sulzmann of Artworks. ‘That meant working in partnership with the school to make sure we had the right balance of the traditional and the progressive to ensure everybody with whom we were trying to communicate – pupils, staff, parents and the wider community – understands what the school stands for.’

As well as providing an exceptional standard of education, the school offers its buildings as a venue for corporate hire, weddings and as a location for photography, film and television. ‘These are important revenue streams in the modern world of education,’ explains John Sulzmann. ‘So a strong identity in all aspects of the school’s operations is essential. What we captured with the branding of the school was its many faces, the way it can slip effortlessly between educational institution and venue for the local and business community. And of course we captured the traditions of the school as well as its progressive, modern approach.’

Sound advice Thursday, 14th October 2010

Sound advice

Phones ringing…people laughing…computers booting up with that welcoming sound…’interesting’ ring tones…an animated conversation next to you…somebody dropping something on their foot. No wonder office workers can have enormous difficulties coming to terms with background noise, especially if they work in open plan areas. The problem is particularly acute because most people work in the UK work in open plan offices at workstations that are on average about 20 per cent smaller than they were ten years ago.

According to a report from the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), people enjoy a 38 per cent improvement in their ability to perform many tasks if they work in a workplace where acoustic conditions have been optimised. The same survey also reported that people perform 16 per cent better in memory tests and 40 per cent better in mental arithmetic tests, when they aren’t disrupted by undue noise. Other reports go even further. A study published in the British Journal of Psychology has highlighted the role that ‘irrelevant noise’ plays not only in disrupting work, but also in increasing stress levels and decreasing job satisfaction.

However, much as we are aware of the harmful effects of noise and much as many people claim they would like to work in enclosed offices (84 per cent of them according to an Office Angels survey), the cost of space and the contemporary focus on teamworking dictate that the open plan is here to stay as the norm for most of them. Fortunately it is possible to reach some sort of balance between the often conflicting need for us to work in privacy but also communicate as part of teams.

Problems and solution arise first at an architectural level. Sound is prone to bounce off ceilings and follow sight lines so the way a building is designed can have a significant impact on noise levels in its interior. The type and shape of a building is often beyond the control of the organisations that inhabit them so, regardless of its architecture, there are some basic steps that a facilities manager or interior designer can take to deal with problems of noise in a building.

One of them is to look at materials. Based originally on our stretched canvas printing process, Artworks have developed a dual purpose product offering an acoustic panel and a piece of art all–in-one. Deep frames with an interior core of absorbent fibre glass help to minimise background noise. A graphical skin on the surface creates a finished piece of artwork that is both visually stunning and effective as a way of dampening sound. Machined perforated designs can also be applied to the face instead of graphics.

If you would like more information on acoustic artworks, call us on 0117 953 2233.

Culpeper Pepped up by Artworks Friday, 18th December 2009

Culpeper Pepped up by Artworks

Artworks Solutions was chosen to supply and install bespoke graphics and signage for a new concept store in Cirencester, opened recently by Culpeper, England’s oldest chain of herbal beauty stores.

Providing a fresh direction for the brand’s retail outlets, Artworks Solutions worked closely with the design team to create striking contemporary floral images for wallpapers and display graphics, printed lightboxes on the walls and around the till area, plus window graphics and signage for the store front. Established in 1927, Culpeper’s core value has always been the sourcing of natural products from natural ingredients.

The new store was required to bring this idea to life, repositioning the brand by combining Culpeper’s rich heritage and history with a contemporary shopping experience for both new and existing customers. Artworks Solutions created a large scale digital wallcovering using a black and white floral photo print for the entire back wall of the outlet, complementing smaller, coloured floral and herbal images around the store. Lightboxes on the walls and till area feature a selection of botanical and organic images on frosted vinyl mounted on thick acrylic, and the front windows are decorated with silhouetted herbs in a fresh turquoise green colour.

Brian Hay, Managing Director of Culpeper UK, commented: “The service from Artworks has been excellent throughout. From rapidly grasping the concept we wanted and offering creative solutions, through to delivery of the final product, this was a very successful working relationship. Even when deadlines were tightened at the last minute, Artworks Solutions reacted incredibly quickly and proved themselves to be very effective.”

Artworks Solutions were selected for the project by Burtt-Jones & Brewer design who have worked with them on several projects.

Seath Herbert, Director of Artworks Solutions, said: “We were delighted to work on this project and help create this new look for Culpeper with their in-house team. Given that retail store environments such as these consistently demand a fresh and individual approach, we worked to help create graphical solutions that were really in keeping with the brand.”

Investing in the future Sunday, 20th December 2009

Investing in the Future

Artworks takes delivery of cutting edge Vutek digital printer 

By far the largest capital investment we have made to date is our new ‘fully loaded’ Vutek QS3220 hybrid printer which arrived this month.  This new tool has already started to revolutionise the way we think about print and production at Artworks, bringing the possibility of printing over 3.2m in width and directly on to almost any kind of flat or flexible surface, in full colour (plus white). 

This is without doubt the most exciting period in our 12 year history, as we see the creative talents of Artworks let loose on the latest and most versatile form of digital printing our industry has seen. Production processes have been streamlined, quality and speed enhanced, new product applications have been born and ultimately there is greater affordability and choice for our clients. 

Main features and benefits: 

• 6 colour high definition UV inks
• White ink for a variety of specialist applications
• Huge range of printable media (rigid and flexible)
• High production capability / lower production cost. 

Applications: 

• Wall coverings / Vinyl / PVC banner & mesh (interior/exterior dressing)
• Acrylic / Foamex / Cardboard etc. (POS, Signage, Exhibition, Display)
• Woods / Laminates / Metals (signage, cladding, retail, artwork)
• Acoustic paneling, ceiling tiles, pinboard material… you name it, it prints it!

New Showroom Opening, Thursday, 5th November 2009

We are delighted to announce that we have completed the fit-out of our showroom in Bristol.  Using space within our own premises we have showcased our range of graphical and branding solutions in a number of environments.  We would be delighted to show you around, so please call us on 0117 9666 331 to book an appointment.

From digital wallpaper to dry-wipe dividing screens, graphical table tops and personalised pinboards we will be able to give you a flavour of:

• how our interesting and practical solutions can make the workplace more productive and can facilitate communications;
• how combinations of kiln-fired glass and graphics offer unique and stunning options for interior design;
• and well-designed signage is crucial in making a great first impression.

We hope that you’ll visit us very soon to see for yourself.

Artworks at London Design Festival Sunday, 20th September 2009

Artworks Solutions was commissioned to act as consultants and supply event signage for ‘The Dock’, an exciting and much talked about ‘emporium of creative talent’ curated and instigated by Tom Dixon during The London Design Festival 2009, and sponsored by Derwent London.  In addition, Artworks Solutions created a bespoke installation piece called ‘The Many Sides of Artworks’ for the site.

Working to a tight timescale Artworks Solutions visited and assessed the newly completed Portobello Dock development in August undertaking a wayfinding exercise with the event organisers.  A series of solutions were produced and included banners on pillars, signage on railings and the exterior perimeter walls, and a freestanding map for the site during the event.

Held from 21^st – 27^th September, across three distinct spaces; The Wharf Building, The Canal Building and The White Building, ‘The Dock’ spanned food, fashion, art, design and new media and included an international range of brands.  It also played host to seminars and talks, including a private evening for The London Festival of Architecture. 

Indoor and outdoor installations presented in over 40,000 square feet of space, made this new destination area within the London Design Festival an exciting attraction to visit.  The site in Ladbroke Grove, which is bisected by part of the Grand Union Canal, made a real impact and provides a stunning combination of history with its Victorian industrial infrastructure, open space and contemporary architecture.

Picking up on this ‘The Many Sides of Artworks’ showcased Artworks’ individual and tailored approach to projects.  Taking the form of a cube, this multi-disciplinary piece was specially designed, manufactured and themed on the local area.  Manufactured from 3-dimensionally machined, engraved and inlayed HDF, featuring various designs and images in textured glass and acrylic, it represented Artworks Solutions creativity and attention to detail, and provided an eye-catching and intriguing element which was positioned outside of the Canal Building.

All the installations provided for ‘The Dock’ draw on Artworks Solutions considerable expertise in creating, designing, manufacturing and installing bespoke graphics, branding and decorative solutions for interior and exterior surfaces in a range of materials and finishes.   

Managing Director, John Sulzman commented: “We were delighted to be part of this initiative and work alongside the Tom Dixon Design team to help link all the elements together through the signage.  Given that The Dock attracted over 5,000 visitors, I think that everyone agrees it was a great success all round.”