ACHIEVE UNFORGETTABLE FINISHES WITH SUBLIMATION

As design expectations rise across commercial, civic, and infrastructure projects, so does the demand for finishes that blend visual impact with long-term performance. One finish that continues to grow in popularity among architects and designers is sublimation—a process that unlocks creative freedom while meeting strict durability standards.

SAS International has delivered sublimated finishes for ceiling systems across the globe—including major transport hubs and retail precincts. And right here in Australia, projects like the Qantas Headquarters, Mascot, NSW have showcased how sublimation can deliver both architectural beauty and performance in demanding, high-traffic environments.

What Is Sublimation?

Sublimation uses heat and pressure to transfer patterns, colours or textures into a metal substrate. Unlike surface coatings, the ink becomes part of the material itself—creating a durable, chip-resistant finish that won’t peel or fade.

From rich timber-look panels to bespoke marble or graphic designs, sublimation offers unmatched design versatility. It’s suitable for everything from perforated baffles and modular tiles to complex ceiling geometries, allowing specifiers to achieve an elevated look without compromising technical performance.

Design That Imitates—Without the Weight or Cost

One of the biggest advantages of sublimation is the ability to replicate natural materials like:

• Timber

• Stone or marble

• Abstract patterns or corporate motifs

This opens up opportunities to introduce warm, textural, or high-end finishes in public buildings, commercial spaces and transport infrastructure—without the structural or maintenance concerns that often accompany traditional materials.

For example, a timber-look metal ceiling can achieve the same organic aesthetic while offering the fire compliance, acoustic performance, and longevity that aluminium delivers.

A Finish That Lasts

Thanks to its embedded application, sublimation offers:

• Superior scratch and UV resistance

• Seamless integration with acoustic and accessible ceiling systems

• Ease of cleaning and low maintenance over time

It’s a finish built to endure, which is why it’s ideal for Australian projects exposed to UV, humidity, pollutants, and high foot traffic. Whether in airports, train stations, shopping centres or schools.

Global Expertise, Local Application

SAS International has delivered sublimated metal ceiling systems for high-profile projects such as:

These projects demonstrate the versatility and lasting value of sublimation, especially in environments where appearance, compliance and performance must go hand in hand.

Design Without Limits

Sublimation is more than a finish, it’s a design enabler. Whether you're aiming for a calming biophilic look, a luxe marble aesthetic, or bold brand expression, sublimated finishes offer a powerful way to bring your ceiling designs to life.

At SAS International Australia, we help clients integrate sublimation into fully coordinated ceiling systems—delivering design confidence from concept to completion.

To explore how sublimated finishes can elevate your next project, get in touch with our team below.