3M Company has entered new territory with its just-launched architectural markets segment.

The Maplewood-based manufacturer said that the new business will focus on surface finishes, glass finishes, and lighting.

“It's a perfect space for 3M because it's enabled by technology,” Mike Kelly, executive vice president of the company's display and graphics business, said in a statement. “We have the unique ability to combine the richness of our capabilities into new, inventive solutions for the design market.”

3M spokeswoman Connie Thompson said Thursday that the new segment will be housed within the company's display and graphics business unit. Although the technology used on the products offered through the new segment is new, it is similar in nature to some of 3M's existing technologies-including those used on vehicle wraps and vinyl graphics, she said.

A new set of products that will be offered through the architectural markets segment will be debuted at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile design and furniture trade show in Milan, Italy-which will take place April 12 to 17. But here's a brief overview of what the new business offers now:

¥ DI-NOC architectural finishes: These are durable, flexible films that come in more than 500 designs; additional designs are being prepared for release later this year.

¥ Fasara glass finishes: These are billed as a “high-style, low-cost” option for enhancing design and privacy on glass surfaces. They provide the look and translucency of etched, sandblasted or custom decorative glass, but 3M claims that they bear only a fraction of the cost.

¥ Architectural lighting: The company said the lighting was created with “cutting-edge aesthetics, energy savings, and ease of installation” in mind. The lighting makes use of the company's “daylighting” technology, which brings sunlight deep into buildings and thus allows greater efficiency.

In addition to the products that 3M offers through its new business, the company also will provide consultation services for architects, designers, building contractors, and owners tackling specific projects.

For more information about 3M's newest business, click here to visit the Web site.