Panels & Furniture Asia March/April 2024

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FLOORING Where style meets sustainability What are some trends that laminate flooring manufacturers should take note of in the new year? The Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring (EPLF) shares a few. In 2024, the laminate flooring industry will continue to embrace the warm and cosy aesthetic, given that prevailing trends lean towards natural and tranquil designs. Besides the comforting visual appeal, product innovation will prioritise waterproof, durable, and sustainable laminate flooring, as reported by EPLF. The trends for this year will emphasise natural, warm and sandy colour palettes, alongside natural and matte textures, and technologies that underscore the association’s and laminate flooring manufacturers’ commitment to sustainability. With this vision in mind, EPLF members are committed to introducing new original designs and technologies to meet client expectations. EMBRACING NATURE This year, manufacturers will continue to embrace calm, warm, and natural design elements. The industry keeps moving towards greige and raw wood colours, reducing the emphasis on rustic and knotless designs. Warm oak continues to enjoy popularity, with regards to both colours and materials. The objective is to create calmer and more harmonious decors, ranging from honey and walnut tones to darker Water-resistant flooring is in high demand 50 PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA | MARCH / APRIL 2024
FLOORING brown shades. Nonetheless, some manufacturers already see the first signals and interest in wood types beyond oak, with walnuts and pine making their mark. Other wood species like beech and larch are gaining importance. In terms of finishings, the main goal is to achieve realism in surfaces, with a strong demand for matte and natural aspects. CLEAN LINES AND LARGE PATTERNS Regarding formats, there is a strong demand for longer planks and unconventional shapes, although the herringbone pattern remains a popular choice, according to EPLF. The incorporation of geometric patterns, as well as stone and marble designs also highlight the desire for natural and harmonious decor. The trend of larger sizes, unusual formats, and softwood designs also underlines a demand for the fast and easy installation of floorings. IMPROVING WATER-RESISTANT TECHNOLOGY Laminate flooring manufacturers lead the charge in researching quality floors that align with key technological trends. Water-resistant laminate is becoming increasingly popular and is expected to be part of the standard range offered by the industry. EPLF members are reportedly producing an increasing number of water-resistant products to meet the growing demand for including more wood in areas that previously did not, such as kitchens and bathrooms. This is a testament to the industry’s investment in innovative technology and its understanding of the needs expressed by their customers. WHERE INNOVATION MEETS SUSTAINABILITY Sustainability is now more than ever a central concern for EPLF members, as they actively contribute to the cascading use of wood while fostering a circular economy. Sustainability takes centre stage with a strong emphasis on resource preservation. Reduced laminate thickness is a strategy to save resources and material costs. The members of EPLF are said to be privileging natural packaging, eco-label certifications, and product longevity. The objective is to deliver durable products featuring waterresistant mechanical locking systems as eco-friendly alternatives. RESILIENCE IN CHAOTIC TIMES The whole construction sector is facing challenges, with high inflation rates and increased raw material and energy cost. While the laminate sector is not immune to these challenges, there is a growing interest in laminate flooring driven by increasingly positive acknowledgement of the products’ sustainability, design, and durability. As EPLF looks towards 2024, the members of the association recognise the need to adapt to these trends to meet customer expectations and contribute to a more sustainable future. Their focus is on authenticity, environmentally friendly products, and resource-efficient solutions. P Although oak remains popular, other species like walnut or pine are also making their mark MARCH / APRIL 2024 | PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA 51
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