Pearlized is an iridescent finish developed by Kohler in collaboration with artist David Franklin through the company’s MakerSpace residency program. The finish was created during experiments that applied physical vapor deposition technology, typically used for metal fixtures, to ceramic surfaces, resulting in an even, pearlescent coating that displays shifting light and color. Kohler debuted the finish on its Derring Carillon Artist Editions sink, crafted by artisans at the brand’s Wisconsin facility, and presented it within an immersive installation at Design Miami.
The installation was designed by artist and Crosby Studios founder Harry Nuriev, whose environment used reflective surfaces, light, and movement to respond to the finish’s luminous qualities. The Design Miami installation occupied booth X-08 at the fair and showcased how the Pearlized surface interacts with light and space. The debut coincided with the fair’s Make.Believe theme and included a design talk featuring Nuriev, Franklin, and Kohler’s vice president of industrial design, focusing on the intersection of artistic experimentation and product innovation
Image Credit: Kohler
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Iridescent Home Decor
- Iridescent surface finishes are gaining attention in home decor, offering a unique and captivating way to transform everyday household items into artful displays.
- Collaborative Design Processes
- Partnering with artists and designers, companies can explore innovative materials and finishes, fostering a cross-disciplinary approach to product development.
- Interactive Art Installations
- Immersive installations that play with light and reflection capture consumer interest, opening avenues for experiential marketing and artistic exhibitions.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Ceramics Industry
- The ceramics industry is seeing advancements through novel applications of industrial coating techniques, enabling new aesthetic possibilities for ceramic products.
- Interior Design
- Interior designers are integrating iridescent finishes to create dynamic and engaging spaces that utilize light interaction to enhance ambience.
- Lighting Technology
- Lighting technology innovations are crucial in enhancing the visual impact of iridescent products, allowing for custom and adaptive lighting solutions that change perception.
