In the ever-evolving world of home design and construction, a new material has emerged, offering a healthier and more sustainable living environment.In this blog, we will dive into what Fenix NTM is, exploring its origins, unique properties, and how this cutting-edge material, developed using space-age technology, is revolutionizing the world of interior design. We’ll also look at how it contributes to creating a beautiful, sustainable home that promotes well-being.
Fenix NTM as a Sustainable and Stylish Alternative to Granite
This granite alternative uses nanotechnology to make better, more sustainable kitchen countertops and cabinets. At Salone del Mobile, we found it used for tables, chairs, and even showers and sinks. Only a couple of decades ago, the only alternatives to hardwood, stone, and porcelain tile were inexpensive synthetic materials that didn’t look very nice, didn’t last very long, and weren’t recyclable or biodegradable. Today’s alternatives, like Fenix NTM, are integral to building a healthy, sustainable home and they’re as beautiful as they are efficient.
What is Fenix material? It’s an exciting new material made in Italy by Arpa Industriale. NTM stands for NanoTech Matte. This space-age material is already used as a granite alternative for kitchen countertops, rivaling traditional materials like Quartz countertops, and is also used to build cabinets like Aran Cucine’s Erika collection and the new Sipario collection. At the 2018 Salone del Mobile in Milan, it was featured in a wide range of products, from furniture to shower walls.
What is Fenix NTM?
The material uses nanotechnology to blend acrylic resins with a high-pressure paper core. A process called Electron Beam Curing scatters a dense grid of crosspolymers across the surface of the material, each with its own memory. So, what is Fenix NTM? It’s a type of thermo-laminate that’s suitable for both horizontal and vertical use throughout the home, making it a sleek and practical option in many modern master bathroom ideas.
Fenix NTM used to create a sleek bathroom countertop with an integrated washbasin.
Fenix is about 70% paper, but still highly resistant to moisture and light scratches can be “healed” using heat. If the surface is scratched with a knife or other sharp object, heat up a standard clothes iron and press it on the scratch. It will disappear quickly from the surface. As long as the structure of the countertop isn’t damaged, thermal repair can be performed an infinite number of times. On the other hand, Fenix is also resistant to dry heat and won’t be damaged by a hot pot placed momentarily on the surface.
Key Features of Fenix NTM
Fenix NTM is a revolutionary material that combines cutting-edge technology with aesthetic appeal, offering an innovative solution for modern interiors. Its unique properties make it ideal for a variety of applications, from kitchen countertops to furniture. Here are the key features that set Fenix NTM apart:
Advanced nanotechnology
A standout feature of Fenix NTM is its use of nanotechnology, which involves manipulating materials at the nanometer scale. This advanced technology creates a highly durable and resistant material with exceptional aesthetic appeal. Fenix NTM is produced by impregnating layers of paper with resin, followed by an Electron Beam Curing (EBC) process, ensuring that the material possesses unique properties that make it ideal for a variety of applications, including Italian kitchen cabinets and Italian bathroom vanities.
Matte finish with soft touch
Flip through a few home design magazines and you’ll notice more and more matte finishes for countertops, cabinets, vanities, and furniture. Fenix is an extremely dense material with an opaque matte finish that’s soft to the touch and resistant to fingerprints. It’s ideal for modern, industrial-style kitchens, and looks fantastic paired with natural wood grain.
In Milan, we saw Fenix used for countertops with integrated sinks, in closets, bathrooms, bedrooms, and office furniture. The material is currently available in four thicknesses between .9mm and 12mm and more than a dozen flat, pearlescent, and wood grain finishes.
Hygiene & sustainability
If members of your household are allergy prone, Fenix NTM is an excellent solution. Its anti-bacterial and mold-resistant properties make is suitable for contact with food. Fenix is NSF certified and meets Greenguard IAQ standards for chemical emission limits, and it’s as easy to clean as quartz. While you’re exploring innovative materials for your kitchen, you might also find smart walk-in closet ideas useful for enhancing other areas of your home with functional design.
Self-healing capabilities
A fascinating feature of Fenix NTM is its ability to “heal” superficial micro-scratches. The self-healing properties are activated by heat; simply applying heat, like from an iron or hot cloth, can restore the surface. This unique capability reduces the need for repairs, making Fenix NTM a sustainable option for homeowners.
Health-focused living spaces
In addition to its aesthetic and functional benefits, Fenix NTM contributes to healthier living environments. The material is non-porous, meaning it does not absorb liquids or harbor bacteria, making it perfect for kitchen countertops and other surfaces that come into contact with food. Its resistance to mold and mildew promotes better indoor air quality, especially for those with allergies or asthma.
Energy-efficient light reflection
Fenix NTM not only provides beauty and durability but also contributes to sustainability. The material reflects a significant amount of light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and saving on energy costs. Produced using eco-friendly manufacturing processes, Fenix NTM helps homeowners create energy-efficient homes with a minimal environmental impact.
Versatile applications
The versatility of Fenix NTM makes it ideal for a variety of applications around the home. From kitchen countertops to bathroom vanities, Fenix NTM is perfect for surfaces that require durability and aesthetic appeal. In the kitchen, its resistance to heat and scratches makes it ideal for countertops. In bathrooms, its non-porous nature ensures hygiene and easy maintenance, making it a great option for Modern bathroom cabinets as well.
The bottom line
Fenix has already racked up several awards, including Dwell’s “Best Design Material” award and the 2017 Iconic Award in the “Product: Best of the Best” category. Innovative design firms are using it in high-end projects, and not just in the kitchen. Amos Goldreich Architecture used Fenix NTM in the kitchen, bathrooms, and office when renovating a London townhouse to create a fluid, streamlined look. Its sleek, matte finish works especially well in spaces inspired by black and white bathroom decor ideas, where contrast and minimalism take center stage. If you want to build a cutting-edge home, Fenix is a material to consider. And while you’re planning your interior finishes, don’t forget important details like how to select a front door that complements your overall design vision.
