AkzoNobel The Case for Color

AkzoNobel Coatings SA, the Greek branch of AkzoNobel, leading powder coating supplier, introduces the Case for Color designed by Filippos Fragkogiannis and Georgia Harizani. The portable swatch box features 60 durable and long-lasting powder-coated panels, ideal for application on aluminium and steel surfaces.

The Case for Color is meant to not only serve as a literal case, presenting Interpons finest powder coating technology to its clientele, but also convey AkzoNobel’s expertise in their field by making “their case for color” to architects, developers and project managers in the local market.

The design system and information architecture aim to facilitate navigation through the catalogue by distinguishing powder coatings in regards to a number of specifications. Each panel follows a numerical system that refers to the enclosed index allowing users to remove and observe its shade and texture in situ while being able to readily consult each panel's technical characteristics.

Containing four different color shades; natural, light, opulent, and dark, the textures in each shade are divided between smooth or sablé while their luminosity is either matte or gloss. Additionally, some of the colors have a metallic pigment in them, creating a metallic color finish, which highlights curved geometries in powder-coated metal architectural components.

Color/n Architecture, Georgia Harizani and Filippos Fragkogiannis contributed to the design of the swatch book by creating an immersive environment for powder-coated samples. The cover is clad in black in reference to AkzoNobel’s trademark sablé texture. The base has a smooth gloss finish, resembling a mirror-like surface, emphasising the contrast between the two shades of black. The cover features an infographic visualisation that summarises the coatings included in their respective categories, implying an immediate dimension in color selection that is informed by an analytical outlook.

The resulting object can gracefully sit in an architectural studio, serving as a decorative item amongst common catalogues while also proving a useful tool to every architect, developer and project manager.