PARAPAN®, by Element Designs, is a high gloss solid surface material, available in a 3/4" thick version that is fabricated into door and drawer fronts and a thin veneer-like version for covering exposed ends and appliance fronts.
Being in the K&B business a long time, I was reminded of the polyester cabinet doors that debuted with a big splash back in the 80's and then disappointed designers and buyers when they didn't hold up to the harsh environment a kitchen presents.
Intrigued, I contacted Element Designs and requested a sample to test myself. They sent me a beautiful, bright, Cobalt Blue sample. To request a product sample, call 800-631-5384.
To my surprise PARAPAN® proved to be up to every challenge I could think of. The only negative is the weight of the doors. Like Corian®, and other acrylic-based solid surface products, PARAPAN® is heavy. That means the hinges need to be extra heavy duty and watched carefully in use. I wouldn't want one of those doors to fall on my toesies. That's for sure!
The material is made in Germany, by Evonik Industries AG, and distributed here in the US by Evonik Cyro LLC.
Element Designs, of Charlotte, NC, seems to have an exclusive on the product, as cabinetry, here in the USA, at least for the time being.
This IS a high-end product - No doubt about that. And it MUST be seen to be appreciated. The colors are not done justice on a computer or printed page. But if you have the wherewithal and want beautiful clear color and high gloss, PARAPAN® is the answer.
Peggy
"PARAPAN® doors are made of a revolutionary, highly reflective, solid surface material which is easy to maintain, water resistant, and UV and fade resistant. The solid surface doors are environmentally friendly, do not contain any VOCs or plasticizers and are also fully recyclable. The doors are available in 17 vibrant colors, are custom manufactured to 1/16", have quick lead times and no minimum order quantities, making them ideal for both new construction and remodeling projects."
