Smith & Fong Co., manufacturer of Plyboo bamboo architectural plywood and paneling products, has launched its full line of high-end architectural bamboo and palm panel products for the Indian market, according to company founder Dan Smith.
“India has a rich history in design and architecture and the level of sophistication and appreciation is there,” Smith says. “We believe that our panel offerings will appeal to both contemporary and traditional tastes and also strike a chord with India’s growing awareness of sustainable and renewable design materials.”
Smith & Fong’s India launch includes its Plyboo, bamboo and Durapalm palm branded lines of decorative panels. The company has chosen Bangalore as its home base, having established offices there through an exclusive representation agreement with ASA Global Enterprises, which will market and distribute the lines in India.
“Bangalore had the right climate for us and it’s centrally located and close to port facilities at Chennai,” Smith says. “Relationships have been key to the 25-year success Smith & Fong has enjoyed in the global design industry. We found the right kind of simpatico with ASA Global and decided we were home.”
Included in this extensive offering will be the Reveal, PlybooSound and Linear Line Collections in bamboo. The Reveal Collection represents panels that are richly carved and textured and the PlybooSound Collection offers aesthetics along with noise-reduction components. The Linear Line Collection offers patterns from contemporary architectural lines to looks that resemble a multi-colored, hand-woven textile.
The palm collection under the Durapalm brand includes PalmWoven, a traditional woven motif and DecoPalm, a contemporary blocked, linear pattern with flat panel looks that express the rich warmth and beauty of the natural material.