The Story Behind Parklex Prodema: Wooden Materials that Withstand All Conditions

What are the origins of your brand?

Prodema was founded in San Sebastián in 1903, as an industrial carpentry shop under the name of Echevarria y Eléicegui, SRC. Specialized in the manufacture of wood and hardware, it experienced a progressive expansion that led it over the years to diversify its activity and move its facilities to Legorreta. More than 50 years after his birth, he changed his name to Prodema.

At the end of the 1980s, the first facades covered by Prodema were built, which caused a very good impression and made various architects begin to be interested in the product. Expo’92 marked a before and after for the brand, to the point of turning around the company’s business by concentrating exclusively on the world of architecture.

For its part, Vera de Bidasoa was the birthplace of Maderas Gurea S.A, founded in 1966, which became Composites Gurea S.A. in 1985. At that time, high-density phenolic stratified wood products were manufactured, aimed at the Spanish iron and steel and electromechanical industries. In 1992, the company began working on the application of wood for construction, thus creating the Parklex brand.

In 2004, the first step in the integration of the brands was executed. The MADME holding company was created, owner of both the Parklex and Prodema brands. In this first phase, all areas of the company were integrated, except for the commercial area, where the two brands competed in different markets. In 2018, the first step was taken in the integration of the commercial networks, unifying the management of the two brands, but without changes regarding the market, for which two different brands continued to follow.

2022 is the year of change, renewal, collaboration and growth. It is the year of the merger of the Parklex and Prodema brands at all levels, becoming a single brand both inside and outside.

The union between the two will mark our new future, because we believe that the union is, today - in this new international context -, the best formula to continue growing and innovating.

From now on, PARKLEX PRODEMA becomes a much stronger and more consistent project.

How do you work with interior designers?

We work with interior designers from the design phase of the project. We help them to know the wood from the hand of an expert, we help them in the search for personalized solutions and we offer technical support for the specification.

Once the project is designed, we enter in the development phase with them. We offer a shop drawings service, we help with the optimization of the material and we look for tailor-made technical solutions for their specific project.

And, if the designer or the company that is going to carry out the work needs us, we can enter in the execution phase of the project. We have logistical flexibility so that the reception of the materials is the most comfortable and appropriate to their needs, as well as being able to customize each delivery. We offer an on-site start-up service and we can provide training on the installation of all our products.

In addition to the support we offer in each of the phases of a project, we have a worldwide commercial network, which allows us to provide an international service. Our sales representatives or technicians can carry out personalized visits, resolve any doubts that may arise, show reference projects... In addition to the fact that we have digital support materials available on our website, and physical samples to see and touch each one of our products and finishes.

We adapt to the individual needs of each designer.

What value does your sector add to the interior design industry?

Thanks to our own technology, we have developed a range of interior and exterior products with natural wood that has a unique strength and durability. We give them the possibility of applying the beauty and warmth of wood in different applications, such as walls, floors, ceilings, acoustics, furniture, facades... In all those areas where they thought they would not be able to place wood, we give them that option.

How do your services/offering enhance an interior designer’s projects?

In addition to everything already mentioned, we are offering a unique product with an international and personalized service. We give the possibility of using wood, with its aesthetic benefits, where it is not usually an option.

We offer a combined solution. Personalized, with international service and with a unique delivery, of a product with unique benefits for wood.

In addition to being able to use our products in high-traffic areas, such as museums, restaurants, retail, hotels, offices... their features make them suitable for hospitals, swimming pools, spas, gyms, bathrooms and kitchens...

Questions answered by Reyes Gutiérrez, Export Area Manager, Parklex Prodema.

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The SBID International Design Awards finalists for 2022 have been revealed, boasting an impressive shortlist of award-worthy entries across Interior Design, Product Design and Fit-Out. From the design scheme, materials used and products specified through to the final fit-out installation, the SBID Awards champion design standards across the supply chain in the design, procurement and execution of outstanding interiors!

To complete the third and final stage of judging, the online Public Vote is now open! Worth an influential 30% of the final scores, it's your chance to sway the results and decide which finalists you think deserve to take home a prestigious SBID Award! You can only vote once per category, so choose wisely and vote for your favourite designs!

Voting closes at 5pm (BST) on 24 August

Voting closes at 5pm (BST) on 24 August.

Visit www.sbidawards.com to find out more!

It was a memorable journey for CROSSTEC to be the millwork supplier and to collaborate with G.A. Group for this SBID Award-winning fit-out project at the Harrods Beauty Halls. Starting with the design development through to the finalisation of the bespoke metalwork in all phases.

The second phase of the beauty halls transformation of Harrods concentrated on the final detailing, from mirror inserts to the counter canopy signs, all of which are carefully handled by CROSSTEC’s design and production team, with the use of dedicated materials such as fine trimmed metal and engraved glass.

If you’d like to feature your product news here, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

4SPACE provides quality, distinctive architectural, interior design and design solutions for commercial premises, restaurants, entertainment venues, retail spaces and private residences throughout the United Arab Emirates and further afield. 4SPACE has blossomed over the last 10 years and continuously innovates and intentionally disrupts interior design in one of the world's most extraordinary cities, Dubai. Recognised as one of the finest interior design companies in the region, the company prides itself on blending light and space with delicate, well-considered features to create memorable aesthetics.

Firas Alsahin and Amjad Hourieh adeptly lead the award-winning interior design firm. Their international experience encourages the team to go beyond limits in Dubai. They explore different shapes and forms to create unique buildings that incorporate feasibility, efficiency, and originality. They led 4SPACE to be the overall winner of the Society of British and International Design (SBID) Awards in 2018. Commercial Interior Design Magazine voted the firm among the top 20 most successful boutique interior design firms in the Middle East in 2019.

Firas Alsahin was named one of the 50 most influential interior designers on the power list in the Middle East. He's a fully accredited design professional with SBID. Alsahin's design finesse embraces futuristic, minimalist, functional and sustainable design. He is well regarded in the industry and has an active voice on various discussion platforms in the Middle East.

Amjad Hourieh is also a fully accredited design professional with the SBID. He loves to create an element of surprise and intrigue with his designs. His designs incorporate the organic influence of Art Deco with the expected natural curves and geometry but with an unexpected sense of drama. Hourieh strives to unify visions between each client with innovation and technology.

Their imitable growth led to Ehab Alhariri joining 4SPACE as the principal architect to shape the new architectural division. His experience has seen him work on various projects in the USA and with world-famed Emaar, Dubai properties, Wasl, and Hilton. Alhariri earned global recognition for his sustainable mountain pod that pushed boundaries and merged his design capabilities by integrating art and science.

4SPACE work and experience

4SPACE creates environments that inspire well-being, drive innovation, and boost company development. Dubai is the world leader in unique and well-designed properties. 4SPACE, as a full-service design firm, has revolutionised the hospitality industry with its unique floating villas, futuristic sustainable mountain pod, the tube house and the towering Marina Twin Towers. The city’s impressive VR Park located in Dubai Mall is over 5,000 square metres and is the largest virtual reality experience venue in the region. On a smaller scale, designers have created extraordinary interiors for restaurants and retail including, Kava and Chai, Space Cup, Charcoal Garden, Karamna, PAPA Dubai, Tutus Kurniati and the Discovery Channel Store in Dubai Mall.

4SPACE has two fully immersive experience parks in the pipeline; 7000 square metres in Dubai Mall and 2000 square metres in Wafi Mall. The team are also expanding into Saudi Arabia with many food and beverage projects being successfully delivered such as Kactus and Dopeamine. Steam Kitchen, HOOK, Verde and Sandwhere are currently being designed and constructed.

Design approach and process

For a comprehensive understanding of the client's needs, the interior designers examine the context of every space and deliver innovative solutions. 4SPACE is considerate and intimately works with each client to generate a comprehensive plan using physical models and mock-ups and provide accurate time frames and budgets. They seamlessly manage projects from beginning to end and communicate freely throughout the design process. The extensive team draws on the knowledge and expertise of in-house architects, technologists, engineers and project developers.

The team of architects and interior designers provides wide-ranging designs for various buildings, including homes, hospitality and entertainment venues, offices, and event spaces. They sympathetically design every element of a visitors journey. 4SPACE intelligently reformulate expectations and create innovative experiences that encourage interaction by playing with textures, materials and light. Their designs encourage touch and are delightful to the eye. 4SPACE creates memories and pleasure.

The pandemic experience

2021 has seen various successes for 4SPACE. Not only has the firm formed the architectural division, but they have moved offices, launched a new website and expanded their team with new hires.

Throughout the pandemic, each designer's curiosity contributes to impressive restaurant design transformations; they are learning how to evolve, improve and remain relevant. Alsahin and Hourieh believe that their transformational philosophy, continuous development and evolutionary approach will ensure that they remain front of mind in the design field.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories with SBID, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The SBID International Design Awards finalists for 2021 have been revealed, boasting an impressive shortlist of award-worthy entries across Interior Design, Product Design and Fit-Out. From the design scheme, materials used and products specified through to the final fit-out installation, the SBID Awards champion design standards across the supply chain in the design, procurement and execution of outstanding interiors!

To complete the third and final stage of judging, the online Public Vote is now open! Worth an influential 30% of the final scores, it's your chance to sway the results and decide which finalists you think deserve to take home a prestigious SBID Award! You can only vote once per category, so choose wisely and vote for your favourite designs!

Voting closes at 5pm (BST) on 10 September

Voting closes at 5pm (BST) on 10 September.

Visit www.sbidawards.com to find out more!

SBID Accredited practice, Tarh Va Afarinesh Architectural & Engineering Consultants provided their commercial design services to execute the development of a new dining destination for the Opal Trade Center's latest food court. With a total area of 2,300 m2, the Opal Food Hall is located on the highest floor of an upscale trade centre in Northern Tehran, Iran.

The mall consists of spacious retail areas allocated to high-end apparel, cosmetics, and home appliance brands, with the design concept of the food hall based on the designer's concern about missing human relationships and connections in the modern urban life.

Shiva Aghababaei, Co-founder of Tarh Va Afarinesh said: "Our design is driven by the belief that the quality of our surroundings has a direct effect on the quality of our lives. We believe that design shall embrace all aspects, ranging from the functional performance of a building to a concern for its physical and cultural context, as well as its aesthetics properties."

The concern for human connection is manifested in this project through the human figures and quotes about social life appearing around the space. Cosy corners are designed in the eating area, which shelter the occupants from stress of urban life whilst making no solid barriers between them.

Plants and other green elements bring in the concepts of biophillia to establish nature connections, and make an implication to the need for modern urban societies to get back in touch with the natural environment.

With proud roots in Hong Kong since 1928, The Peninsula has been synonymous with refined Asian tastes and experiences, and an icon in the world of travel and hospitality.

Crosstec Group share the delight of unveiling The Peninsula Boutique & Café, designed by Conran Design Group - a newly opened retail space and a dining destination in one of the Peninsula hotels in Hong Kong. It celebrates the finest gourmet ingredients and dining experiences that reflect the legendary hotel’s reputation for excellence.

"It was a memorable journey for our CROSSTEC team, starting from design development to the final renovation fit out. The project features the work of extraordinary craftsmanship and partnership from various parties."

The Peninsula invites guests to try their delicious culinary creations and beverages, accompanied with the famed Peninsula customer service, before exploring books on design, travel and culture by renowned French luxury publisher Assouline.

The guest experiences at the hotel will be enhanced not only by the premium food and stylish gifts they will find at the Boutique, but also by the design that is so unique to the place it is bound to become a tourist destination in itself.

Crosstec team believes that the visitors will be able to enjoy the exclusive and immersive dining experience at The Peninsula Boutique & Café and they congratulate the Peninsula on the grand opening.

Scotland’s very first YOTEL, centrally located in Edinburgh’s bustling Queen Street, perfectly combines contemporary modern interiors with the classic design of the city’s famous Old Town architecture. Its playful ‘cabin’ style rooms feature bathrooms using a bespoke solution and innovative solid surface material Surfex® exclusively from Roca.