Case Study: Custom Wall Panels in a Commercial Lobby — Transforming Spaces in Orlando
- Silvia Rolla
- Feb 3
- 3 min read
Commercial lobbies function as transitional spaces that establish first impressions, reinforce brand identity, and support wayfinding. In contemporary commercial architecture, wall treatments play a critical role in defining these environments. This case study examines the application of custom wall panels in a commercial lobby in Orlando, demonstrating how material selection, detailing, and coordination contribute to spatial clarity and architectural presence.
The project illustrates how custom wall panel systems can elevate a high-traffic commercial interior while meeting performance, durability, and maintenance requirements.
Project Overview and Design Objectives
The Orlando commercial lobby was conceived as a welcoming yet authoritative space serving multiple user groups throughout the day. The design brief emphasized durability, acoustic control, and visual refinement, while maintaining alignment with the building’s architectural language. The client sought a solution that would differentiate the lobby from adjacent circulation spaces and provide a cohesive backdrop for branding and reception functions.
Custom wall panels were selected as the primary vertical-surface material due to their dimensional consistency, controlled texture, and integration with lighting and architectural elements.
Early involvement of architectural and interior design teams allows material strategy, performance requirements, and brand expression to align from the outset. A coordinated design approach ensures that custom wall panel systems support both functional and representational goals.
Material Selection and Panel System Strategy
Material selection focused on achieving long-term performance alongside visual coherence. The wall panel system incorporated durable finishes suitable for commercial use, with a surface treatment that balanced texture and reflectivity. Panel dimensions were carefully coordinated with ceiling heights, door openings, and adjacent architectural elements, thereby reinforcing proportional order throughout the space.
The system was engineered to allow precise joint alignment and concealed fixings, ensuring a clean visual outcome while supporting ease of maintenance. This approach positioned the wall panels as architectural components rather than decorative overlays.
Custom wall panels offer flexibility in finish, dimension, and performance, making them suitable for a wide range of commercial environments. Access to architecturally specified panel systems supports design precision and long-term durability.
Integration With Lighting, Acoustics, and Wayfinding
A key objective of the project was to integrate wall panels with lighting and acoustic strategies. Linear lighting elements were coordinated with panel joints to accentuate vertical rhythm and guide movement through the lobby. The panel system also contributed to acoustic moderation, supporting speech clarity at the reception area without introducing visually disruptive elements.
Wayfinding signage and branding components were mounted directly onto the panel system, maintaining visual continuity while ensuring legibility. This integration reinforced the lobby’s role as both a functional and representational space.
Successful integration of architectural finishes requires early technical coordination between design, supply, and construction teams. A dedicated B2B consultation streamlines specification, detailing, and execution across project stakeholders.
Installation Process and On-Site Coordination
The installation phase required close coordination between design, supply, and construction teams. Panel layouts were finalized through shop drawings and on-site verification to ensure alignment with existing conditions. Sequencing was carefully planned to coordinate with flooring installation, ceiling systems, and electrical works.
The precision of the panel system reduced installation time and minimized on-site adjustments, supporting project timelines while maintaining design integrity. This process highlights the value of early technical coordination when specifying custom architectural finishes in commercial environments.
Performance Outcomes and Client Impact
Following completion, the custom wall panels contributed to improved spatial definition, acoustic comfort, and visual identity within the lobby. The material system demonstrated durability under daily use while maintaining its architectural clarity. From a client perspective, the lobby now communicates professionalism, quality, and coherence, aligning with the organization’s brand values.
This project demonstrates how custom wall panels can transform commercial lobbies into composed, high-performing spaces when specified and executed as integrated architectural systems.
For commercial interiors seeking architectural clarity and long-term performance, custom wall panel systems provide a refined and adaptable solution. Working with a design-led supplier ensures continuity from concept through installation.
Concluding Perspective
The Orlando commercial lobby case study illustrates the transformative potential of custom wall panels in commercial interiors. Through careful material selection, precise detailing, and coordinated installation, wall panels can elevate spatial experience while meeting technical and operational requirements. For architects, designers, and commercial clients, this approach offers a reliable strategy for creating impactful, long-lasting lobby environments.
