MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO—Torlys has created what it considers to be an industry first—a breakthrough floor for today’s home: environmentally responsible flooring made of 100% recycled leather.

While leather floors have been produced before, they’ve been available only in glue-down formats for limited/customized applications, usually at a high price, noted John Kocemba, Torlys’ vice president of marketing. “Torlys has created a new and original product, an engineered floor that uses Uniclic joint technology for a tight fit without glues or nails, and can be sold at an affordable price.”

Torlys Leather is a bold, exotic and original floor that will hit select retail flooring stores across North America this fall, he said. In support of the launch, Torlys has embarked on a “Create-a-Sensation with Leather” promotional campaign that includes advertising, consumer direct marketing, and in-store merchandising.

Consumer inquiries preceding the launch are at a record level for the mill. “We’re absolutely thrilled with positive feedback from dealers and consumers,” he said. “Leather is definitely generating a buzz. Our research has shown that consumers would like leather floors in virtually every room in their house; they love the combination of great looks, exotic feel and environmental benefit.”

Inspired by the quality of fine Italian leather, Torlys has created a distinct collection that includes 12 different styles with names such as Novara Black, Modena Wine and Genova Tan. The floor’s stunning looks are enhanced by extra-long planks and oversized tiles.

Torlys leather is recycled from the manufacture of jackets, upholstery, belts, shoes and handbags, making use of material that would otherwise find its way local landfills, he said. The leather surface wear layer is 2.7mm thick.

Kocemba confirmed affordable pricing is a key feature of the new floor. “For the first time, homeowners can own a leather floor and not worry about breaking their budget.”

Torlys Leather floors are made with a cork backing— a renewable resource and a natural insulator— for extra comfort, warmth and quietness, he noted. “This innovative use of cork eliminates the need for an underlay in most cases, saving time and money on installation.”

In addition to the environmental benefit of using recycled leather, Torlys Leather floors contain no harmful VOC emissions, no added formaldehyde and exceed California Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) standards— among the most stringent in the world.

Like all Torlys Smart Floors, Torlys Leather ensures long-lasting performance, noted Kocemba. “The leather stands up beautifully to the wear and tear of everyday living and carries a 25-year wear warranty. Every floor can be easily disassembled and moved to another room or second property, and moved up to three times under warranty.”

Torlys Leather floors will be available at select retail stores this month in Canada and in November in the U.S.

Shea Gifford of Nu-Way Floor Fashions in Calgary, Alberta is more than ready. “Torlys Leather is the most exciting product I’ve seen in over 38 years of being in business. We’ve been talking to customers about it for months. The reaction is something I’ve never experienced before.”

Harry Harles, owner of Brentwood Carpets in Raleigh, N.C., who recently participated in a local home show event, was very impressed by the new Torlys product. “The introduction of Torlys Leather floors was the hit of The Fall Southern Ideal Home Show in Raleigh. We had two booths devoted to leather, and at times it was so crowded, it was difficult to see the floor!”

Pierce Flooring of Billings, Mont., recently promoted and showcased Torlys Leather at the local Parade of Homes show. Many people came out to see the new floors and had a lot to say. “‘This is the coolest floor I’ve ever seen!’ ‘Oh, that’s smart, very smart!’ ‘That’s really something, that’s unique.’ These were just a few of the many very positive comments we received at the show,” said Jon Pierce, owner of Pierce Flooring.

Al Maghes, vice president of business development for Erickson’s and current president the North American Association of Floor Covering Distributors (NAFCD), reported great interest in Torlys Leather floors with higher-end dealers. “This quality, high-end niche leather flooring from Torlys will stimulate consumer traffic, allow the dealers to make full margins and will appeal to designers and architects as well as the targeted retail décor customer.”

For more information on Torlys, call 800.461.2573.