A solid surface reception desk is built from flat sheet, thermoformed curves and bonded joints. The result reads as one continuous object, with no visible seams across the top or down the front. We supply the material and components to fit-out contractors and joinery firms, built to their drawings, for hotel receptions, bars, clinics and shop counters.
Why fit-out teams use solid surface for counters
- One piece to the eye. Parts are joined with colour-matched adhesive, then sanded and polished. The joint leaves no visible seam or gap.
- Curves in the same material. Akrilika and the AR colours thermoform, so a curved front, a radius end or a wrap-around top is the same colour and finish as the flat parts.
- Repair on site. The manufacturer states that scratches, chips and cracks are removed without visible traces. A certified fabricator does this as a paid service, without stripping out the counter.
- Fire data on file. Akrilika A101 is rated Bfl-s1 to EN 13501-1 (TÜV Rheinland test report, 2015, A101), and Class 1 surface spread of flame to BS 476-7 (SGS). Check these against the requirements of your building.
Thermoformed fronts: Akrilika only
Curves need a 100% acrylic sheet. Akrilika and AR can be heated and formed. Apietra, the modified acrylic stone-look range, cannot be bent at all. For a curved reception desk in a stone look, use an AR veined colour or combine flat Apietra with curved Akrilika parts. With veined decors, plan the cuts: the pattern breaks at every joint.
Backlit bar counters and translucent fronts
The translucent shades of the Akrilika and Design collections let light through, and some marble-look decors transmit it well. A backlit bar front or reception panel uses these shades over LED lighting. The effect depends on thickness, LED spacing and distance, so test a sample over your planned light source before fixing the design. For the decors with the strongest translucency, see Kristall translucent. For relief patterns with an LED frame, see Deco 3D wall panels.
Logos and branding
Logos can be applied to solid surface by sublimation printing. The manufacturer lists this for interior use. On a reception desk, the logo sits in the same surface as the rest of the front, rather than on a sign fixed to it. Send vector artwork with the size and position on the drawing.
Quoting a solid surface reception desk or bar counter
- Plan and elevations with overall dimensions and the radius of any curve.
- Colour codes for the top, front and any backlit panel.
- Edge profile for the top (for example pencil, bullnose or shark nose).
- The position and size of the logo, and whether any panel is lit.
- Quantity and delivery country. Chains with repeated counters should say so.
Dark shades are not recommended for tops in heavy daily use, so consider a lighter top on a dark front. Send your drawings and we will reply with the material, the fabrication route and the questions a counter maker would ask.
