AJ Wells

Innovation & Recognition: A.J Wells & Sons Wins Big at the Surface Design Show

We’re delighted to share that we won top spot in the Commercial Building Exterior category at the Surface Design Awards 2024! 

Held at the Business Design Centre in London, the Surface Design Show is a renowned showcase of innovation in the design industry. This year, the awards received over 160 entries from around the world, which makes winning the Commercial Building Exterior category a really proud achievement.  

A.J Wells and Sons designed, developed, manufactured and installed the beautiful vitreous enamel external soffit on the sixth floor of the award-winning project, at The Rowe, Whitechapel, London.  

The building’s twelve floors are split between the upper six which have been designed as a reflection of the original building below. These two areas, old and new, are separated by an external terrace that features the beautiful vitreous enamel external soffit, creating a striking visual for both those on the sixth floor and from street level below.   

The multi-coloured panels of this prestigious artwork were installed as part of a six-story building extension designed by Architect Allford Hall Monaghan Morris for developers Frasers Property.  

The captivating artwork, which is the project’s centrepiece, is by renowned artist Yinka Ilori and was commissioned by Zoe Allen of Artist Statements . Yinka’s design has been printed onto our WellsClad vitreous enamel cladding system and exemplifies the unique potential of vitreous enamel to blend artistic expression with architectural excellence.  

Surface Design Show 2024 from AJ Wells & Sons Ltd on Vimeo.

The distinguished panel of judges commended our work as “an interesting way to use cladding and a good way of spreading joy to the public, making the building a better place.” This resonates deeply with us at A.J Wells, as we strive to create not only durable and functional products but also those that inspire and uplift.    

Beyond the award, the Surface Design Show provided a valuable opportunity to connect with existing clients and build new relationships with potential partners. Our stand was buzzing with interest as visitors explored the diverse applications and benefits of our vitreous enamel products, including:  

Exceptional durability: WellsClad products withstand the harshest environments, making them ideal for both interior and exterior applications.  

Unique surface finishes: Vitreous enamel is very versatile allowing for endless possibilities, from vibrant hues to intricate patterns.  

Colourfast: The vitreous enamel process ‘locks in’ colour so our products look as good as new for decades to come. 

Graffiti & dirt resistance: Vitreous enamel surfaces resist vandalism and dirt making it easy to maintain their appearance.  

Fire-proof and weather resistant: Safety and longevity are paramount, and our WellsClad products excel in both areas.  

Thank you to our team, the Surface Design crew, the judges and all the visitors who stopped by to chat. If you would like to learn more, check out our website and discover the endless possibilities of vitreous enamel and our WellsClad system. 

For more information, including a video, about this specific project click here.