Dark Ash M-AF-W08-122 | MiA™ Natural Wood Collection

Product Description

Sophisticated Depth for Modern Interiors

Dark Ash captures the refined elegance of richly darkened ash wood—the deep, sophisticated brown tones that create visual weight and contemporary luxury without the dramatic intensity of near-black woods. This premium architectural film from Metamark's MiA™ Natural Wood collection brings the sophisticated depth of European dark ash into modern interiors with authentic grain character and approachable boldness.

This is dark wood with restraint. Dark Ash evokes the elegant paneling of contemporary European apartments, the sophisticated cabinetry of modern urban homes, and the refined depth that creates intimacy without drama. The rich deep brown tones with subtle gray undertones provide visual substance and gravitas while remaining more versatile and approachable than near-black alternatives.

Dark Ash represents the design movement toward contemporary dark woods that add depth without overwhelming. Where Black Oak delivers maximum drama and traditional luxury, Dark Ash offers sophisticated refinement. Where Grey Oak provides medium-tone urban character, Dark Ash brings rich depth. It's the wood tone for spaces that want the substance and luxury of dark wood with more versatility and contemporary restraint.

The embossed grain texture and protective topcoat create the multisensory experience of quality dark ash. Unlike flat printed films, Dark Ash invites touch—the grain texture provides authentic ash character even in dark tones. The topcoat delivers modern durability that real dark wood cannot match, resisting scratches and maintaining consistent rich color without the fading or wear that plagues genuine dark finishes.

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DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

Contemporary Sophistication with Approachable Depth

Dark Ash embodies the design principle that darkness creates sophistication and intimacy, but restraint maintains versatility. This is the dark wood for spaces that want impact without drama, depth without dominance.

Design Philosophy:

• Contemporary dark wood sophistication
• Refined depth without drama
• Modern European elegance
• Approachable luxury and versatility
• Sophisticated restraint over bold statement
• Urban refinement and quality
• Timeless dark contemporary

Ideal Project Types:

• Contemporary urban residences
• Modern European-inspired interiors
• Sophisticated condominiums and townhomes
• Design-forward residential projects
• Boutique hospitality with refined aesthetic
• Upscale commercial spaces
• Contemporary office environments
• High-end retail with dark sophistication

Design Movements:

• Contemporary Dark
• Modern European
• Sophisticated Urban
• Refined Minimalism
• Contemporary Luxury
• Urban Elegance
• New Sophistication

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AESTHETIC CHARACTERISTICS

Wood Grain Profile: Rich Deep Brown Ash

Visual Character: Deep rich brown with subtle gray undertones
Grain Pattern: Authentic ash grain with refined character
Color Tone: Dark, sophisticated, approachable richness
Texture: Embossed three-dimensional ash grain
Presence: Substantial, elegant, refined

The Dark Ash Sweet Spot: Dark Ash occupies the sophisticated middle ground between medium-tone woods and dramatic near-black. It's dark enough to create depth and luxury, but restrained enough to remain versatile and approachable. This is contemporary dark wood at its most refined.

Dark Ash vs. Black Oak - Critical Differentiation:

When to Choose Dark Ash:

• Contemporary dark wood desired
• Sophistication without drama
• Dark but more versatile than Black Oak
• Modern European aesthetic
• Refined depth preferred over bold statement
• Design-forward but approachable
• Urban sophisticated elegance

When to Choose Black Oak:

• Maximum drama and impact required
• Traditional luxury dark wood
• Bold design statement
• Very dark, near-black needed

Design Intelligence: Dark Ash serves as:

• The contemporary sophisticated dark wood
• The versatile dark alternative to Black Oak
• The modern European depth creator
• The refined urban wood element
• The approachable luxury dark tone
• The sophisticated restraint in dark woods

MiA™ Natural Wood Collection Context:

Harmonious Material Pairings:

MiA™ Soft Matt Colors (Perfect Companions):

• Cotton Matte (cool white) - Sophisticated contrast
• Putty Matte (greige) - Refined tonal balance
• Pebble Matte (cool gray) - Contemporary harmony
• Norsk Matte (warm sand) - Unexpected warm contrast
• Sage Matte (botanical green) - Organic contemporary
• Oxford Matte (charcoal-navy) - Layered dark sophistication

Metals:

• Brushed Brass: Warm sophisticated contrast (primary)
• Brushed Nickel: Contemporary elegance
• Matte Black: Tonal modern layering
• Polished Chrome: Clean contemporary
• Brushed Gold: Refined luxury
• Gunmetal: Sophisticated urban

Stone & Countertops:

• White marble (Carrara, Calacatta) - Contemporary classic
• White quartz - Modern sophisticated
• Light gray quartz - Tonal elegance
• Concrete (light gray) - Urban contemporary
• Brass-veined marble - Refined luxury
• Stainless steel - Modern industrial

Complementary Colors:

Contemporary Sophisticated:

• Pure whites and cool creams
• Light to medium grays
• Soft charcoals (tonal depth)
• Muted blues and greens
• Minimal warm accents

Modern European:

• Warm whites
• Greiges and taupes
• Sage and eucalyptus greens
• Soft terracottas (controlled)
• Deep navy (accent)

Urban Refined:

• Cool neutrals
• Architectural grays
• Black accents (strategic)
• Brass/gold touches (warmth)
• Natural greens (organic)

Contemporary Luxury:

• Layered neutrals
• Sophisticated greiges
• Deep jewel tones (minimal)
• Metallic accents
• Organic textures

Avoid Pairing With:

• Very warm honey tones (conflicts with cool dark)
• Bright bold colors (clashes with sophistication)
• Yellow-gold metals (too warm)
• Very trendy colors (dates the refined dark)

Embossed Dark Ash Texture

The embossed grain texture is essential for Dark Ash's refined character. The three-dimensional texture maintains ash grain visibility in dark tones:

• Visible Ash Grain: Even in dark tones, ash character remains
• Sophisticated Depth: Embossing creates rich visual interest
• Tactile Quality: Feels like genuine dark ash wood
• Refined Character: Texture elevates beyond flat dark
• Premium Signal: Distinguishes from basic dark finishes

The protective topcoat preserves the sophisticated aesthetic while providing:

• Superior scratch resistance (critical for dark surfaces)
• Moisture protection
• Easy maintenance
• Consistent color (won't fade like stained dark wood)
• Better performance than natural dark wood

Maintenance Reality: Dark surfaces show fingerprints and dust more than light surfaces. Dark Ash requires regular maintenance but is more forgiving than Black Oak due to its slightly lighter tone and subtle grain variation.

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ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS

Residential Sophistication

Kitchens (Contemporary Dark):

• Contemporary Islands: Dark Ash island + light perimeter
• Modern Lower Cabinets: Dark Ash base + light uppers
• Sophisticated Full Kitchens: Dark Ash throughout (urban condos)
• European-Style Kitchens: Refined dark wood aesthetic
• Mixed Material: Dark Ash + concrete + brass

Living & Study Spaces:

• Modern Media Walls: Contemporary entertainment centers
• Home Offices: Sophisticated professional spaces
• Contemporary Libraries: Refined book storage
• Urban Loft Built-ins: Modern storage solutions
• Feature Walls: Accent walls with depth

Bedrooms & Baths:

• Master Bathrooms: Sophisticated dark vanities
• Contemporary Bedrooms: Modern dark built-ins
• Dressing Rooms: Elegant closet systems
• Powder Rooms: Dramatic small space impact

Architectural Features:

• Accent Walls: Contemporary dark feature walls
• Modern Paneling: Sophisticated wall treatments
• Ceiling Details: Unexpected dark overhead
• Interior Doors: Refined dark statement

Commercial Elegance

Hospitality:

• Boutique Hotel Lobbies: Sophisticated reception
• Hotel Bar Areas: Refined evening luxury
• Restaurant Feature Walls: Contemporary dining backdrop
• Executive Lounges: Upscale business hospitality

Food & Beverage:

• Contemporary Restaurants: Sophisticated dining environments
• Wine Bars: Refined intimate spaces
• Modern Cafés: Urban coffee culture
• Upscale Bistros: European-inspired dining

Retail (High-End):

• Contemporary Boutiques: Sophisticated product displays
• Jewelry & Watch: Refined luxury retail
• Home Goods (Modern): Design-forward retail
• Technology Showrooms: Sleek contemporary displays

Professional:

• Architecture Firms: Material sophistication
• Design Studios: Contemporary work environments
• Law Offices (Modern): Refined professional spaces
• Financial Services: Sophisticated client areas

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TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE

Advanced Wood Replication Technology

Multi-Layer Construction

• Face Film: Premium polymeric PVC with dark ash printing
• Embossed Texture: Three-dimensional ash grain replication
• Protective Topcoat: Hard-wearing finish engineered for dark tones
• Adhesive Layer: MetaScape® permanent acrylic with air-release
• Release Liner: Structured for professional handling

Authentic Dark Ash Replication

• High-definition scanning of real darkened ash wood
• Rich brown color depth with subtle gray undertones
• Ash grain pattern visible even in dark tones
• Embossed texture aligned with printed grain
• Contemporary dark wood character

MetaScape® Adhesive Technology

• Permanent solvent-based acrylic adhesive
• Proprietary micro air-release channel system
• Professional bubble-free application
• Repositionable during installation
• 12N/25mm nominal adhesion strength (24-hour cure)

Material Performance

• Film Gauge: 165-250 micron nominal thickness
• Elongation: 220% MD nominal (conformable)
• Texture Depth: Realistic embossed ash grain in dark tones
• Dimensional Stability: Excellent (no movement)
• Color Depth: Rich, consistent darkness
• Grain Pattern Repeat: Allows for pattern matching

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PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

Durability & Service Life

Safety & Regulatory Compliance

Advantages Over Real Dark Stained Wood

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ROLL SPECIFICATIONS

Product Dimensions & Coverage

Standard Roll Configuration

• Width: 48 inches (1220mm)
• Length: 164 feet (50 meters)
• Total Coverage: Approximately 656 square feet (61 square meters)
• Grain Direction: Runs along length of roll
• Pattern Repeat: Allows for grain matching

Professional Packaging

• Factory-sealed protective packaging
• Structured polyethylene release liner
• Protective end caps
• Product identification and grain direction marking
• Handling and storage instructions

Storage Requirements

• Store horizontally on flat surface
• Temperature: 10-20°C (50-68°F)
• Relative humidity: 50% optimal
• Protect from sunlight, UV, heat
• Keep away from moisture
• Maintain in original packaging until installation

Pre-Installation Acclimatization

• Move to site 24 hours before application
• Allow material to reach room temperature
• Maintain consistent temperature
• Keep in protective packaging during acclimatization

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INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

Professional Installation Standards

Important for Dark Colors: Dark films like Dark Ash show substrate imperfections more readily than light films. Good surface preparation is essential, though Dark Ash is more forgiving than Black Oak.

Installer Qualifications Installers should have:

• Experience with wood grain architectural films
• Experience with dark films preferred
• Understanding of grain direction and pattern matching
• Proficiency in dry application techniques
• Surface preparation expertise
• Post-heating equipment and knowledge

Surface Preparation Protocol

Suitable Substrates:

• ✓ Painted wood and MDF (fully cured, smooth)
• ✓ Sealed plywood and particle board
• ✓ Metal with appropriate primer
• ✓ High-pressure laminate (smooth)
• ✓ Properly primed porous surfaces

Preparation Steps:

1. Clean surface thoroughly
2. Fill all holes and imperfections
3. Sand to smooth finish (180-220 grit minimum)
4. Remove sanding dust with tack cloth
5. Prime porous surfaces (Metamark Silver Bullet)
6. Multiple coats if needed for smooth finish
7. Allow complete cure
8. Final clean with isopropyl alcohol

Application Technique

Critical Requirements:

• ✓ Dry application ONLY
• ✓ Consistent grain direction
• ✓ Premium felt-edge squeegee
• ✓ Consistent firm pressure
• ✓ Material temperature: 15-25°C during application
• ✓ 45° angle cuts on all edges
• ✓ Thorough post-heating
• ✓ Light substrate preferred under dark film

Environmental Controls:

• Application temperature: 10-35°C (50-95°F)
• Consistent temperature
• Controlled humidity
• Good lighting from multiple angles
• Minimal air movement
• Dust-free environment

Unsuitable Applications:

• ✗ Exterior (UV exposure)
• ✗ Direct sunlight (fading)
• ✗ High-moisture areas (shower enclosures)
• ✗ Temperature extremes
• ✗ Heavily textured substrates

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CARE & MAINTENANCE

Maintaining the Sophisticated Finish

Reality Check: Dark surfaces show fingerprints and dust more than light surfaces. Dark Ash requires regular maintenance but is more forgiving than Black Oak due to its slightly lighter tone and subtle grain.

Daily Maintenance

• Wipe with clean, dry microfiber cloth
• Remove fingerprints promptly
• Dry any water splashes immediately

Weekly Cleaning

• Clean with warm water and mild pH-neutral soap
• Use clean microfiber cloth
• Wipe in consistent direction
• Rinse with clean water on separate cloth
• Dry immediately and thoroughly
• Buff gently to restore uniform appearance

Monthly Deep Cleaning:

• Use premium pH-neutral cleaner for vinyl
• Test in hidden area first
• Follow dilution instructions precisely
• Rinse thoroughly
• Dry completely

Prohibited Cleaning Methods:

• ✗ Abrasive cleaners or pads
• ✗ Caustic cleaners
• ✗ Solvent-based cleaners
• ✗ Petroleum products
• ✗ Bleach or chlorine
• ✗ Ammonia-based products
• ✗ Steam cleaners
• ✗ Magic erasers
• ✗ Wax or polish

Surface Protection:

• Always use cutting boards
• Always use trivets under hot items
• Never slide objects across surface
• Handle with care
• Clean spills instantly

Setting Expectations: Clients choosing Dark Ash should understand:

• Dark surfaces show fingerprints and dust
• Regular maintenance essential
• More forgiving than Black Oak
• The sophisticated depth is worth the care

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WARRANTY & SUPPORT

MetaSure® Warranty Program

Metamark (UK) Limited provides comprehensive warranty coverage for MiA™ Natural Wood films.

Warranty Coverage:

• Material manufacturing defect protection
• Performance guarantee for rated durability
• Replacement material for verified valid claims
• Discretionary contribution toward reinstallation

Warranty Requirements:

• ✓ Proper storage prior to installation
• ✓ Professional installation
• ✓ Installation per guidelines
• ✓ Good surface preparation (important for dark colors)
• ✓ Maintenance per recommendations
• ✓ Use within specified parameters

Warranty Exclusions:

• ✗ Improper installation or preparation
• ✗ Substrate imperfections showing through
• ✗ Use outside recommendations
• ✗ Accidental damage or abuse
• ✗ Chemical damage from improper cleaners
• ✗ Unauthorized repairs
• ✗ Normal wear beyond rated period
• ✗ Visible dust or fingerprints (maintenance issue)

Claim Process:

1. Document with detailed photographs
2. Contact Kirin Global Supplies
3. Provide installation details and batch number
4. Submit to Metamark for evaluation
5. Receive determination and remedy if approved

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SPECIFICATIONS AT A GLANCE