Spirit of Innovation
Seeking a material that spoke to his innovative spirit, Uruguay based fabricator Pablo Ferrer discovered solid surface more than a decade ago. It wasn’t long before he was enamored with the creative possibilities that arise from such a unique and multi-faceted material. Though, unlike many whirlwind love affairs, Pablo’s flame still flickers for his favorite medium.
What led you to this profession?
PABLO FERRER
I always liked to innovate, look for new materials, and to be original. When I became familiar with solid surface, I recognized it had all those characteristics combined. I began working with the material immediately.
What is a “dream” project for you?
PABLO FERRER
Dream projects are the ones that provide you with some challenge. When they are large, public, or complex, it forces us to creatively develop strategies to achieve the desired result.
What do you think the future of manufacturing is like?
PABLO FERRER
I visualize a manufacturing system where manpower is more and more valuable, as it will become increasingly scarce. Robotization is reaching new heights and capabilities, so humans will have to develop unique techniques that machines can’t replicate.
How does creativity play in your trade?
PABLO FERRER
It plays a fundamental role, it is the key to success. For me, creativity links the needs of the client and the fabrication that machines are capable of.
What do you consider to be your “best” job?
PABLO FERRER
Any job, they all require an extreme amount of flexibility! When a client comes up with an idea, we rarely tell them that it can’t be done. Our best work is bringing the client’s idea or design closer to materialization. I consider our team to be one of the best out there, not only to carry out the work but to understand and advise clients.
What do you think is the most important quality in a manufacturer?
PABLO FERRER
They need to know how to sell the material, through highlighting its main benefits. In the case of solid surface, thermoforming and imperceptible joints are two unique characteristics to focus on.
Do you have any tips or tricks for those who are learning to work with a solid surface?
PABLO FERRER
Do not limit yourself, develop new techniques to achieve innovative applications. Fall in love with working with this material, keep training and never stop studying.
How has technology affected the solid surface manufacturing industry?
PABLO FERRER
I became familiar with solid surface as a material around 11 years ago. Since then I haven’t seen much advancement in terms of the technology developed for solid surface, not for fabrication at least. Technology is essential to achieving complex designs but most often, behind the machine there’s a person…
In your opinion, what is the future of solid surface?
PABLO FERRER
I believe that it will be more considered by organizations as one of the ideal materials in the health, hygiene and food sectors. Currently only in some countries require it.
What is the coolest project you’ve worked on and what made it so cool?
PABLO FERRER
We have several, but we’re particularly fond of the curved counters we’ve made for Antel, Fucac and Montecarlo. Another great project that really hit the mark and also received an award, was the our booth for the Uruguay Construction Fair in 2017.