Article Number : 4690 |
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| Date | 7/28/2009 9:08:58 AM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=4690 |
| Abstract | The Hand Crafted Italian Veneers collection took home a Best of NeoCon Award for Resilient Flooring. The first in a series of hand-crafted veneers, these .5mm tiles were created by... |
| Article | The Hand Crafted Italian Veneers collection took home a Best of NeoCon Award for Resilient Flooring. The first in a series of hand-crafted veneers, these .5mm tiles were created by trend-driving Italian artisans, are suitable for commercial applications and can be easily maintained for years of use. The line launches with patterns Pesca and Spinato, although Expanko will be unveiling new designs throughout the year. Pesca is a check pattern reminiscent of a fishnet. “The blocks within the pattern are not consistent—they are random and uneven in places—which adds to the beauty,” said Randy Gillespie, director of sales and marketing. Spinato, which translates as herringbone, is “a very unique looking cork that gives direction to the tile.” He added that both Pesca and Spinato can be used as borders around Expanko’s traditional cork looks to create unique designs or stand alone as an overall pattern. “These styles exude classic sophistication and reinforce the company’s commitment to sustainable design.” Gillespie noted that these designs were created to showcase the flexibility of cork. “These are not the traditional cork looks you world normally see on the floor. This is fine design you can’t get anywhere else.” The company believes two factors will contribute to the success of Hand Crafted Italian Veneers: aesthetics and environment. “It contributes toward LEED credits, which is a big part of designers’ choices,” Gillespie said. “The second draw is the excitement generated from a product made of 100% recycled material coupled with high design.” And if NeoCon feedback is any indication, the collection will indeed be a hit. Gillespie said they were surprised on three levels. “First, attendees were surprised to see this level of design in a cork product. Second, they were surprised that cork is manufactured at the density of hardwood, so it can be used where hardwood canbe used. And finally, they were surprised at the ease of maintenance. We use BonaKemi Traffic, which is one of the most popular finishes for wood and cork. Cleaning is simply done with a dust mop or Swiffer.” |