Offering the same look, feel and smell as unprotected leathers but with greater longevity and less upkeep, Crypton’s premium leather is a game-changer for architects and designers, writes Adena Maier.

Articolo Studios Cuff stool in Crypton Leather. Photo: Chris Budgeon

Materialised, a long-standing Australian specialist in textiles, wall coverings and acoustic solutions, was the first to introduce Crypton textiles to the Australasian market in 1993. 

“We started with just two printable base fabrics and a limited range of print designs,” says Materialised CEO Belinda Price. “Even then, it was a breakthrough. Crypton changed the game by enabling the use of soft, functional, printable textiles without compromising on performance.” 

Now, it builds on that legacy with the introduction of Crypton Leather to the Australasian market. But what sets this product apart when compared to the many other leathers available to designers? 

“The product ticked the boxes that fit our criteria for any product we introduce – that is, it needs to be suitable for commercial applications,” Price says. “There is a lot of leather available in this market and we simply would not have added just another one without these key features.”

BELLINA Crypton Leather

According to Price, it’s the product’s balance of luxury and performance that makes it suitable for demanding commercial environments while still offering a warm, dignified and tactile finish to everything from hospitality settings and office environments to aged care facilities. 

It’s this versatility in appearance and application that makes Crypton Leather stand out. But beyond performance, the way it’s made is just as important. 

Sustainability meets high performance

Crafted using a water-based, solvent-free formula, Crypton Leather is manufactured with sustainability top of mind. It’s certified by the Leather Working Group (Silver and Gold-rated tanneries), SCS-certified for ultra-low VOC emissions and compliant with stringent global standards including REACH, LEED and California Prop 65. 

In terms of maintenance, the leather is designed to be cleaned and disinfected with common household products, including bleach-based cleaners, so there’s no need for specialty solutions. 

FLORENCE Crypton Leather: BELLINA Crypton Leather

Crypton Leather earns top marks in sustainability and ease of maintenance, but from a designer’s perspective, the product’s performance qualities are just as compelling. The Crypton topcoat resists stains, water, wear, fading, UV damage and microbial growth and is designed to last as long as the furniture. 

Trusted by leading Australian designers

Just down the road from each other in Richmond, Materialised’s Melbourne Design Studio and Articolo Studios share more than proximity – they’re both advocates of high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design. 

Known for blending industrial and organic materials, including solid metals, timber and leather, into sculptural works of lighting and furniture, Articolo Studios has built an international reputation since its founding in 2015. 

Articolo Studios Flare Collection side table in Crypton Leather. Photo: Chris Budgeon

Founder and creative director Nicci Kavals describes Articolo’s aesthetic as “layered, textured and quiet, while also being contemporary yet timeless”. This design philosophy made choosing Materialised’s Crypton leather over other leathers an obvious choice. 

“The stain-resistant treatment is what stood out to us, as all our pieces are designed to stand the test of time and be relevant in 20 years,” Kavals says. 

Articolo Studios Saddle bench in Crypton Leather. Photo: Chris Budgeon

While longevity and quality are key factors, for artisans, ease of use matters too. 

“The Materialised leathers have been a pleasure to work with,” Kavals says. “Their soft yet durable nature has given our makers the confidence to upholster even the most intricate pieces with ease.” 

Articolo Studios Cuff stool in Crypton Leather. Image: Clinkr Studio

It’s Crypton Leather’s balance of durability, performance and tactile appeal that makes it a dependable choice for designers, trusted to elevate any commercial space. 

For designers and architects interested in learning how Crypton Leather can elevate their next project, order your sample pack from Materialised here.

Lead image: ALLORA Crypton Leather. All photography supplied.