Object Nine Insights
EXPLORING ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS:
WHEN THE ONE YOU WANT ISN’T
When clients approach us with a project, they often have a specific material in mind—perhaps stone for its timeless appeal, brass for its luxury feel, or stainless steel for its modern shine. But sometimes, the material they want isn’t the best match for the purpose, location, or budget of the project.
That’s when exploring alternative materials becomes essential. At Object Nine, we believe every vision deserves to come to life—without being limited by one single option.
WHY YOU MIGHT NEED ALTERNATIVES
1. Durability Concerns
Some materials, such as iron, may not withstand outdoor conditions well without regular maintenance. A stainless steel or fiberglass alternative could perform better.
2. Budget Limitations
Premium materials, such as brass or natural stone, can significantly increase costs. Fiberglass, cement, or resin often provide similar aesthetics at a more accessible price point.
3. Weight & Installation
Stone sculptures may look majestic, but they can be too heavy for certain sites. Fiberglass offers a lightweight yet durable solution.
4. Design Flexibility
Some projects require detailed curves or intricate textures. Fiberglass or resin allows for greater freedom compared to heavier materials.
EXAMPLES OF MATERIAL SUBSTITUTION
• Brass → Fiberglass with Metallic Coating
Brass is highly valued for its warm golden tone and sense of luxury. However, it is also heavy, expensive, and requires polishing to maintain its shine. A fiberglass sculpture coated with metallic paint or electroplated finishes can mimic the appearance of brass at a fraction of the cost. It’s lighter, easier to install, and suitable for projects where budget or weight is a concern—without losing that premium golden look.
• Stone → Cement or Fiberglass
Natural stone like marble or granite brings timeless elegance, but it comes with challenges: high cost, significant weight, and limited flexibility for detailed designs. Cement can be molded to resemble stone while offering more affordability, and fiberglass can reproduce intricate textures with ease. Both options are ideal for large installations where the weight of stone would be impractical, yet the visual effect remains strikingly similar.
• Iron → Stainless Steel
Iron is strong but prone to rust, especially in humid or outdoor environments. This means ongoing maintenance and protective coatings are necessary. Stainless steel, on the other hand, provides the same structural strength with the added advantage of being rust-resistant and low-maintenance. It also offers a sleek, modern finish that fits both contemporary architecture and long-term durability needs.
CASE STUDY:
VEHHA HUAHIN LUXURY SEAVIEW CONDOMINIUM
One example of alternative material use can be seen in the Vehha Huahin Luxury Seaview Condominium project at Khao Takiab Beach, Hua Hin.
Photo credits : Proud Real Estate
For this project, Object Nine crafted a fiberglass sculpture finished with a wood-grain texture. The lower section was designed with 316 stainless steel, arranged in alignment with the natural sea level of Hua Hin’s shoreline. This thoughtful integration ensured both artistic harmony and long-lasting durability in the coastal environment.
The VEHHA project is more than just luxury living—it proudly received the Fitwel Built Certification in the Multifamily Residential category, a recognition of its commitment to healthier, more sustainable living environments. With sea views, water park access, and hotel-style services, the condominium provides a complete lifestyle experience, seamlessly blending art, wellness, and modern living.
OUR APPROACH AT OBJECT NINE
When the original choice isn’t practical, we guide our clients through options that balance beauty, durability, and cost-efficiency. Every recommendation is tailored to the project’s purpose—whether it’s a landmark, commercial installation, or private collection.
Key takeaway:
Choosing an alternative material doesn’t mean compromising quality. It means finding the best solution to make sure your artwork lasts and inspires for years to come.
If you’re considering a project and want to explore the right material options, contact Object Nine today.
We’ll help transform your idea into a lasting masterpiece!
Contact Us
*All images in this blog post are the property of Object Nine. They may not be copied, reproduced, or used in any form without prior written permission from Object Nine.
