Project Overview
Featured in this residential bathroom project, Spectra by SMILE Plastics demonstrates how recycled materials can become the focal point of a contemporary interior. Used as a bespoke bath panel, the material introduces subtle colour, texture and transparency while showcasing the beauty of recycled plastic waste.
The result is a calm, plant-filled space where sustainable material choices are celebrated rather than concealed.
Material Story
Spectra is manufactured in the UK from post-consumer and post-industrial plastic waste. Embedded within a translucent base, colourful recycled fragments create a terrazzo-like appearance that makes every sheet unique.
The visible inclusions tell a story of material recovery and circular design, transforming discarded plastics into a premium architectural surface.
Application
For this project, Spectra was fabricated into a custom bath panel, creating a striking contrast against the clean geometry of the white tiled walls and sanitaryware.
The material’s light-reflective qualities and scattered fragments add depth and movement, allowing the bath surround to function as both a practical element and a design feature.
Why It Works
- Distinctive aesthetic – every sheet has a unique composition of recycled fragments.
- Visible sustainability – recycled content becomes an intentional design statement.
- Versatile fabrication – suitable for furniture, wall cladding, cabinetry, and interior features.
- UK manufactured – supporting local circular economy initiatives.
Design Impact
The project highlights a growing shift towards materials that combine environmental responsibility with strong visual identity. Rather than mimicking traditional finishes, Spectra embraces its recycled origins, creating a surface that is both expressive and authentic.
As designers increasingly seek materials with traceable stories and measurable impact, Spectra demonstrates how waste can be reimagined as a desirable and enduring design resource.
Project Details
Material: Spectra
Manufacturer: SMILE Plastics
Application: Bespoke bath panel
Sector: Residential
Attributes: Recycled Content, Circular Design, UK Manufactured, Decorative Surface, Custom Fabrication