Illuminated Panels by

by Backlit Decor^_TM

Liquor Shelf Backdrop		Lobby Feature

Welcome to Backlit Decor^TM

 Your One-Stop-Shop for backlit panels of all kinds

So, you never have worked with us before . . .

Here are a few points you may want to consider.

Info for Builders, Architects, Interior Designers and Home Owners

We have what others don't and do what others won't^TM

Over the last decade or so we used to import literally all of our surface material from Asian countries. During and even after Covid supply chain issues resulted in major production problems and job delays. But in the end -like any other negative will attract a positive- this was a good thing! Because that issue motivated us to start developing and producing surface material in-house.

We now have reached the point that we produce all surface materials in-house. So why would that make much of a difference? There are several reasons:

1.  We control time lines and are no longer dependent on sea freight and carriers and more impotantly
   

2.  We can create virtually any color desired by our clients

3.  We now can offer design patterns that were not possible before like single or multiple book matches, intensity of colors, direction of striations (veins), application of color & striations across multiple panels, to name a few.
   

We build complete self contained panels

for projects of various complexities using a variety of very unique materials. May that be a backlit 3 story lobby wall, a backlit shower stall or a custom shelf backdrop, bar top or bar front for a restaurant, bar, hotel reception area or basement bar.

By "complete" we mean shipping everything needed

to install these panels so the installer does not need any other trade to complete the job.

Our panels are complete and consist of surface material, coated metal container, lighting components, diffusers, wiring, controllers, heat sinks and all necessary hardware, in short, everything so the panel(s) can be taken out of the crate, be put in place, plugged in or hard wired and turned on. If so necessary we even include specialty tools. And of course every shipment will come with detailed installation instructions.

Our product is designed to make installation easy

and time efficient. Typically our features are installed by GC crew or millworkers. Knowing how important timing and time consumption is in every project, we make sure installers will not have to leave the job site in order to buy a missing part, hardware, tool, etc.

Future Maintenance

is a crucial part of our design process. After all, any type of lighting will fail at some point in time. Our panels can be disassembled in order to replace failed components.

All parts will be shipped in fully protective wooden crates. The only limitation in terms of size are the dimensions of a 40 foot container.

Information required to get started and receive a budget number:

Usually the first item on the agenda is to get some kind of pricing info. For that we need some idea what you are trying to accomplish. At a minimum we need info about shape and dimension(s) of your project as well as what suitable surface material you could find on this website.

The more details you can provide, the better we can serve you.

I.e.Inspirational images from our galleries or other sources, in case of a remodel mages of the area to be treated, sketches or project blueprints (PLEASE mark areas to be dressed up). We do not go through a 20 page blueprint trying to find some small description of such area(s).

If we have sufficient info you will receive a budget number within 24 hours.

One More Thing . . . 

We believe in first-rate communication and timely follow-up. We always will do our part to fulfill this committment. Our 5-Star Houzz reviews are reflecting customer satisfaction.

Backlit Panel Options

by Backlit Decor^_TM

Chore: Design and create flexible panels to be applied to a curved wall

Being unable to find any real stone material other than small mosaic type veneer, that could be applied to this radius wall, our flexible real stone panels were the only solution.

Per our design suggestion the panels were to be horizontally separated by stainless steel profiles.

The project was about to be finished, drywall applied and installation had to be speedy with a grand opening deadline in mind.

	Layout
	Panel and stainless profile location and cuts were transposed onto the image and parts dimensioned to match the layout. All parts were numbered to match this layout which was showing the numbers as well (in detailed installation instructions)

Profiles
Profile shape was designed and fabricated by our metal shop.

	Design Closeup
	As a test and for client approval panels and profiles were laid out together.

Install Schematic
This install schematic was part of the instruction for installers. In this image stone panel on right will be up and stainless steel lip facing down.

	Quality Control
	Layout and live test of all parts for match consistency. This is only one of several images sent to the client before shipping.

Finished Wall
This wall cladding was installed by 2 men in less than 5 hours. Minor cuts were required for AC vents. All fasteners as well as diamond blades for grinder were supplied as well. Client loved it!

Chore: Build a shelf backdrop

Client requirement was to create an elegant space for a bar while incorporating a large backlit wall with glass shelving. 

The dividing wall was torn down to open up the space. 

Backlit Feature Dimensions: 83" x 54-1/2" x 3-1/2"

Since the feature dimensions were too large for one panel, it divided into two panels.

The goal was to hide the seam with the glass shelving.

Another requirement was that the feature needed to be dimmable.

Concept Development
An inspiration image was provided by the client so a rendering was produced to represent an idea of how the final product would look like in the proposed area.

Anchoring & Panel Sizes

In cooperation with the contractor and client, our engineers made sure there was enough space to fit both backlit panels on the wall without creating a large gap surrounding it. Once spacing of the glass shelving was determined, sizes of the panels were adjusted accordingly so the seam would be hidden. When two or more panels are joined, we incorporate a slot and tab system system to make sure they do not slide apart.

Demolition
After demolition of the wall, locations for the cabinetry and backlit feature were finalized.

	Electrical Layout
	Preliminary shop drawings were provided to give an exact location for the electrical hookup. It is crucial that the junction box is located in an area where it can be accessed for easy hook-up of the wires to the panel.

Testing
All features that are produced are extensively tested for faults. Our team makes sure everything is working 100% before it is shipped.

	Color Temperature
	Variable white LED's were chosen for this project to allow for multiple color temperatures. They range from 3000K (warm white) to 6500K (bright white). Note: the color temperature makes a dramatic difference.

Completion
Everything in this project turned our successful. Installation was done in less than an hour. The client was extremely happy since we handled all aspects feature including: Lighting, wiring, decorative surface, fasteners, and even special tools(in this case a flexible philips head bit) to make installation easy.

Chore: Create removable backlit faux onyx panels

Client requirement was to use backlit Onyx or Faux Onyx behind the shelves in a refrigerated wine room. Dimensions of large leg: 12' x 10' high, Small leg 5' x 10' high.

The backdrop needed to be dimmable and connected to a 0-10V system in order to adjust for day/ night ambient light.The appearance was to be one large surface without visible seams/ joints.

Upon our suggestion client approved to have us design future maintainability of the light sources (LED) into the project.

In the process client decided in favor of Faux Onyx

Concept Development
Shaded areas show future glass wall. Faux Onyx panels to be sliding behind shelves and resting on top. Mill worker voiced concern about stability of shelves.

	Anchoring & Panel Sizes
	In cooperation with mill worker a system was devised to use long brackets as anchors providing enough space behind the shelves to slide in the panels as well as provide stability for the shelves. This way the lighting inside the panels can be maintained in the future by pulling the panels out from behind the shelves.

Electrical
In coordination with GC and electrical contractor, outlet locations were determined and marked in drawings.

Mark Panel Locations
In order for all trades and GC to be on the same page, we always suggest to mark panel locations with blue tape. This will help reduce errors and costly delays.

	Production Electrical
	Shown here is a completed small back panel with LED lighting attached (2' x 8' high). In this case the panel is made from 20 gauge steel and powder coated white for best reflection.

	Finished Panels
	Finished panels in preparation for testing

	Finished Panels
	Finished panels in preparation for testing

Backlit Panel Specialty Fabrication

by Backlit Decor^_TM

Stuck on a project? Need an idea or solution? Too many companies to deal with? No local expert?

Challenge us, we may be able to assist as your One-Stop-Shop.

We can handle almost any shape or size project. When designing a project consider that surface materials come standard 48" x 96". Cutting down to size is no problem. scaling up requires multiple panels. Try to avoid "being a little over" as this will add to the project cost.

Example: Designing a backlit feature measuring 9'-0" high by 5'-3" wide will require (3) panels @ 3'-0" high by 5'-3" wide. If that dimension can be brought down to r' by 8' and the difference be "padded" somehow it can be done with ONE panel, saving a substantial amout of money.

Skill sets of our team members:

Translucent Surface Materials

Faux Onyx, Genuine Onyx, Faux Marble, Faux Granite, Slate, Mother of Pearl, Wood

Lighting

Newest LED lighting technologies including controllers, dimmers, 0-10V technology

Metals

Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Powder Coating

Wood

Frames, Trim

Paint

Faux Marbles, Faux Onyx, Color Composition

Plastics

Acrylics, PVC, Forming

Project Pricing / Terms

Every project is different and entails a number of variables that cannot be addressed by a square foot price.

Our turn-around for a rough estimate is only 24 to 48 hrs anyway, which also gives you a much more accurate number.

Here are just a few items that can affect pricing:

• size (cross lamination)
• number of panels if not divisible into 4 x 8'
• layout
• attachment
• seamless application
• special coloring
  
• shape - 2-D, 3-D or any other
• interior or exterior application (weather seal)
• wet application (shower stalls, fountains)
• impact resistance
• surface lamination
• special coatings
• type of lighting
• future serviceability/ maintenance requirements
• design/ engineering/ development issues

To get a meaningful number please submit your specs or sketch here to receive a quote within 24 to 48 business hrs.

Assisting Owners, Architects, Designers, Builders

So what can we do for you?

Design

You have worked with our product in the past? If so, you are already off to a good start! If not then you likely will have a handful of issues like:

What product can I use to achieve the result desired by my client?
Can I combine certain products?
How can I control the looks/ appearance?
What technical problems are there to achieve the design?
What do I need to consider for installation?
Is my design prone to run into snags because of technical/ design issues?
Are shape/ size technically possible?
What's the cost compared to other products?
How can I convince the client that my design is producing the proper result?
What kind of maintenance issues are important for my client?

There are many other issues as well, of course all depending on the complexity of a project.

The answer to all these questions: The earlier you involve us the easier your job will be and the smoother the installation will proceed.
We have not seen one project yet where there were no issues between Owner, Architect, Designer, Trades.

On the other hand we certainly have seen a number of times where designers (architectural or other) got themselves in a pickle by "imagining" certain results or effects that according to our experience will not or cannot happen.

Check Lighting gone wrong to see some telling examples.

Fabrication
When we are working on your project, it has the highest priority, period! Following specifications precisely, paying attention to detail, not cutting corners and working with high quality materials as well as the proper state-of-the-art tools are as important as finishing on time. We understand that issues between Owner, Architect, Designer and Trades sometimes can lead to the necessity to make adaptations quickly. We will always do our best to accommodate all involved.

Installation

Have to say it, but this is a detail that is often overlooked by design professionals. Design is important, absolutely but what if the installation is so cumbersome that it will throw the project out of budget? Or like in many cases where the designer did not consider future maintenance issues, the owner then eventually had to "break into" the project in order to get things fixed the expensive way. We can give you tips in the early stages to avoid these snags.
Shipments will always contain absolutely everything to complete the project successfully. If that requires some special tools - as it has happened in the past - we will add them as well. Installers should not have to go out and find certain items like hardware, fasteners, etc. to be able to complete the job. This obviously is extremely important for projects in distant countries where some of these items may not even be available. All project parts will be shipped in fully protective crates.
Typically the assembled or pre-assembled project parts can be installed very easily and right out-of-the-box following the supplied Installation Instructions.

Communication

We believe that good communication between all parties involved in our projects is crucially important. We certainly will do our part! It is equally important that the client is informed about the project status at any given time he or she chooses to find out. That is why at the time of order we will supply login credentials to the client which will provide access to respective project reports. These reports are available 24/7 and updated every other day. They may contain images and video (for large projects).

Compensation

A majority of our projects are commercial where budgeting is "built in" on the Architect side. We also do high end residential for which we can offer different compensation models to Interior Designers. We can bill the client directly. That would require the designer to provide mark-up info (if so desired), so we can build it into the invoice. Collection would then be on us and mark-up would be forwarded to the designer. Alternatively we can bill the interior designer directly.

Architects. We gladly help with spec details, budget numbers and design/ maintenance issues

Interior Designers. As our product is very unique, eye-catching and suitable for all kinds of spaces in high end residences, it opens a number of ways to increase revenues significantly. Designers even have the opportunity to branch out into the commercial arena (restaurants, hotels, resorts) which can be very lucrative as well. We can tell you how.

Builders/ Remodelers. Working in the high end market? Unique, eye-catching "different" decor is increasingly in demand with the affluent. Show our galleries to your client and make an additional sale. Your client will be grateful! We've seen it many times.

Samples