As Australia takes a decisive stand against silicosis with a landmark ban on engineered stone products, WK Stone proudly introduces Quantum Zero – a groundbreaking collection of crystalline silica-free, recycled surfaces.
October 14th, 2024
The alluring beauty of the slab is punctuated by the dynamic, perfectly randomised marble pattern sprawling through its sleek, robust expanse. Fusing a warm palette of neutrals with a rudimentary constellation of veins, the mesmerising surface encapsulates the raw creativity of natural stone and the architectural quality of an engineered surface. Except this novel material isn’t either one of them. It’s Quantum Zero, WK Stone’s pioneering recycled surface that contains no crystalline silica. The new range doesn’t just redefine the world of surfaces – it sets a new global benchmark for sustainable design.
Landmark ban, trailblazing innovation
The launch of this cutting-edge product, which replaces WK Stone’s Quantum Quartz collection, comes as a direct response to the Australian government’s world-leading ban on engineered stone products containing more than 1% crystalline silica. Introduced in July, this decisive measure aims to prevent silicosis, a debilitating lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust, a significant risk for stonemasons and workers in the construction industry.
For some manufacturers, the ban brought a sense of finality, forcing them to discontinue some of their product ranges. For WK Stone, this landmark decision marked a consequential step in the company’s design evolution, offering a chance to lead the industry forward through groundbreaking material innovation.
“Our team has been working behind the scenes and visiting international markets to develop this innovative new product,” states WK Stone’s Director, Bill El-Cheikh. “In transitioning from Quantum Quartz to our crystalline silica-free Quantum Zero, we have created a material that is safe for stonemasons and just as easy to cut and install.”
WK Stone’s outstanding commitment to worker health and safety sets a new industry benchmark. However, the pioneering innovation of Quantum Zero extends beyond its silica-free composition. WK Stone has achieved a more remarkable feat: a safe, compliant material that doesn’t compromise the aesthetics or performance demanded by architects and designers. By replacing quartz with recycled glass, WK Stone has been able to maintain the look and feel, the durability and the performance industry professionals have grown to appreciate about the now-discontinued Quantum Quartz collection.
Spectrum of sustainable style
Spanning almost 40 exquisite and carefully curated patterns, the Quantum Zero recycled surfaces collection boasts four unique ranges: Ultra Natural, Deluxe, Standard and Designer.
The stunning Ultra Natural range draws on the raw beauty of nature, yielding a palette of luxurious marble-look designs, soft-touch matte surfaces, and organic colours. It encompasses the gentle elegance of patterns like Classic Palazzo and Michelangelo and more dynamic designs like the Champagne or the newly added Taj Mahal Palazzo, which showcases WK Stone’s digital printing capabilities in all their stunning glory.
The Standard range leans into the timeless colour palette and terrazzo-style design, boasting a selection of versatile neutrals – like Polar and Driftwood Grey – and bolder statement shades, perfectly exemplified by Galaxy Black. The Deluxe range celebrates the elevated sophistication of refined patterns like Calacutta Roma, Storm or newly launched Alabaster Matte, while the Designer range embraces the intricate complexities and industrial inspirations of contemporary shades like Metro Concrete, Leggero or Argento.
With a broad spectrum of nuanced variations spanning the enduring grace of marble hues and the striking charisma of the modern motifs – all available in a variety of finishes, including polished and matte – the new collection is bound to augment any design scheme and style, empowering designers to create stunning interiors without compromising on safety or sustainability.
Engineered for excellence
The surfaces’ non-porous, durable and resistant nature further enhances their appeal, offering a hygienic, easy-to-clean solution that is resistant to bacteria and mould. These features, alongside Quantum Zero’s sustainable composition, crystalline silica-free formula, and market-leading 10-year warranty, position the new collection as the ultimate surface solution for design professionals looking to craft exquisite kitchens, bathrooms, bars, and beyond.
There is no doubt that Quantum Zero transcends mere compliance. This groundbreaking product, which so aptly embodies WK Stone’s steadfast commitment to innovation, worker health, design excellence, and environmental stewardship, isn’t just a design tool – it’s a catalyst for a momentous shift galvanising the Australian design landscape. And in choosing Quantum Zero, design professionals aren’t simply selecting a stunning, high-performing surface – they’re casting an important vote for a safer, more sustainable future for all.
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