New architectural and Experf films launched

Our innovative architectural and Experf products have been brought to life on screen, thanks to a collaboration with an award-winning film company. 

We commissioned Ithica Films, which is based in Middlesbrough, to create two films highlighting the strengths and visual impact of our architectural meshes and Experf products.

Our specialist architectural meshes are used in building cladding, façades and screening applications, and are employed by architects and interior designers to create high impact visual statements.

These products have been used in projects in the UK and abroad, and landmark buildings such as the New Museum in New York and The Young Vic Theatre in London are clad in expanded metal manufactured at our site in Hartlepool.

Our Experf range has been developed as a cost-effective alternative to perforated metal. Experf mesh is used in applications including acoustic insulation, ceiling tiles, furniture, speaker grilles, air intake screens, filtration, light fixtures and store displays.

As the metal is expanded rather than punched through, there is no waste in the production process, unlike perforated metal – meaning that raw material usage can be reduced by up to 50%. This results in significant cost savings compared to perforated metal sheets.

Ithica Films was launched in 2014 and recently moved to an 8,000 sq ft new premises at Marsh Street in Cannon Park in Middlesbrough, to support increased demand for its services. The company’s new headquarters has a studio, 10 editing suites, a production office and a creative suite.

Philip Astley, managing director of The Expanded Metal Company, said: “We have worked with Ithica Films on several projects in the past and we were confident that their team could deliver an exceptional visual showcase for our architectural and Experf ranges. We certainly weren’t disappointed with the outcome… and the results speak for themselves.

“It’s fantastic to have a company of Ithica Films’ expertise and pedigree on our doorstep here in the Tees Valley. They go above and beyond when working with their clients, and have an innate understanding of how to successfully portray industrial products and processes.

“We operate in a highly competitive market and manufacture meshes for both domestic and international markets, so it is vital to maximise on the opportunities provided by digital marketing and media platforms.

“These new films will help us to reach new audiences and highlight our capabilities in a spectacular, highly engaging way.”

Matt McGough, managing director of Ithica Films, commented: "The architectural products have always caught our eye through the work we've been doing with The Expanded Metal Company over the past few years so it was great to get them set up in the studio, light them and start to pick the details out.

“Metal is always amazing to film and these were eye catching pieces that look great in the final films.

“The Expanded Metal Company has always been forward thinking and open to new ideas around the showcasing of their products and there's always a degree of creative freedom in their productions that really push the company’s marketing content further.”