MATERIAL focus | What is Valchromat?
Known by brand names: Valchromat OR Forescolor.
CAN also Be referred to as solid colour MDF.
Black Valchromat cabinetry with recessed finger pulls paired with Douglas Fir.
Designed by Proctor and Shaw.
Valchromat is an evolution of MDF and fits somewhere between a wood fibreboard and a solid surface. The pigment colour is integrated directly into its wood fibres, making a consistent colour throughout the board. Because its primary raw material is wood chips (bonded with synthetic resin), it is very easy to machine and cut and requires little to no sanding. Valchromat is ideal for creative interiors and joinery applications.
Valchromat has some pretty sound environmental credentials:
Organic, non-toxic dyes used in production
Recyclable
Sustainable FSC certified
Extremely low formaldehyde levels for low VOC interiors
Valchromat uses:
Joinery
Interior cladding
Floors
Can be machined into three dimensions as the pigment colour runs through the board
Cherry red Valchromat paired with perforated metal at Restaurant REMI in Berlin.
Designed by Ester Bruzkus Architekten.
Valchromat has a textured surface that gives the material a unique appearance (think MDF here!). The sheets are supplied raw and unfinished, which means it will initially look quite "dull" in colour appearance. Applying different finishing options will alter the final depth of colour. I.e. A glossy lacquer VS satin VS waxed - would all yield different aesthetics.
Available in limited colours:
Valchromat: Stocks 10 colours.
Forescolour: Stocks 9 colours.
Valchromat is a natural product; therefore, slight colour variations can occur from batch to batch. UV Resistant to natural and artificial light. Cannot be exposed to high/continuous levels of moisture, steam or humidity. Because the product is coloured throughout, it is easy to spot repair minor scratches (that’s a win!).
Useability:
It can be used for joinery in kitchens and bathrooms as Valchromat is moisture-resistant; however, you should always apply a top coat sealer to provide a greater protection level and extend the joinery lifespan.
Valchromat is not waterproof, so spills need to be cleaned up immediately. Should also consider the joineries location, as it is not advisable to be exposed to high/continuous moisture, steam, or humidity levels.
Green Valchromat joinery.
Designed by Studio Razavi Architects.
Price Point: $ $
Australian suppliers:
Valchromat available at Urbanline.
Forescolour available at Porta.