Human Diversity and Patient Recovery and Well-Being 

Gone are the days of designing healthcare environments containing long sterile, white corridors, and noisy communal living, entertainment, and dining areas. Inclusive design is for everyone and it’s a process that considers the full range of human diversity with respect to ability, language, culture, gender, age, and other forms of human difference. Overall, thoughtful design choices in the healthcare environment can have a significant impact on patient recovery and well-being, making it an essential aspect of healthcare design. Incorporating natural elements like wood, water, and minerals into the interior design can help reduce stress, stimulate positive emotions and promote healing.

Biophilic design integration on Floors & Walls

Designers and specifiers can choose floor coverings that are inspired by nature and are made from hard wearing vinyl, carpets or linoleum. These innovative solutions offer a wide variety of tones, textures, patterns, shapes, and colours that can evoke natural elements, such as plants, minerals, water, or the sky. They also deliver outstanding comfort, durability, and ease of maintenance to ensure the longevity of healthcare facilities.

Floors & Walls with Gerflor & Gradus

The Gerflor MyTaralay digital printing floor covering service offers a versatile solution for biophilic design, with customisable patterns and colours that bring natural elements into interior spaces. Whether it’s calming wood tones or organic textures, MyTaralay helps specifiers create environments that support wellbeing; while meeting compliance, durability, and hygiene standards, Floor coverings can be combined with robust wall protection for a complete themed design finish.

Gradus SureProtect Artworx is a wall cladding system that allows bespoke images to be printed on to the PVC-u sheet. This allows specifiers to incorporate murals into healthcare spaces and introduce biophilic design elements whilst still achieving durability and infection prevention. Recently launched, the SureProtect Artworx® Wall Protection collection, was created in collaboration with Kate Bond, a designer who specialises in biophilic design for use in healthcare environments. Artworx® pays tribute to the stunning scenery of the nearby Peak District.

Gradus also has 14 new SureProtect Pure Hygienic Wall Cladding Satin colours, specifically designed for healthcare environments with finishes that can enhance the biophilic design of a healthcare setting. These subtle and classic hues enhance the aesthetic appeal of healthcare facilities and also prioritise hygiene and durability. The collection offers superior protection against wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting surfaces that withstand the rigors of daily use. The smooth PVC wall cladding is easy to clean, helping to maintain a sterile environment crucial for patient safety.

Conclusion

Given the positive impacts associated with biophilic design, particularly through quality views and daylighting, and the financial benefits that can be tied to improving the patient and caregiver experience, it is no surprise that the healthcare industry has shown momentum toward incorporating biophilic design principles into interiors.

While most research on the topic has centred on acute-care hospitals to date, it is likely that similar benefits can be realised within outpatient-focused facilities. Fortunately, as more large healthcare networks reap the benefits of biophilic design in their hospitals, it is natural that similar design principles will be applied to outpatient offices and will be incorporated into healthcare spaces of all specialties and sizes.

By catering to the unique needs and challenges of healthcare environments, architects and specifiers can create interiors that prioritise patient care, enhance staff performance, and contribute to the overall health and happiness of all individuals within the facility. Through wise choices of colour and design the goal is to create spaces that not only provide excellent medical care but also promote healing, improve overall well beings and create a sense of comfort for patients, staff and visitors. Need Support Choosing the Right Solution?

For tailored advice on Biophilic design specification, Darren Curtis is available to support NHS and Private Healthcare decision-makers at every step of the process.

Reach out to Darren Curtis | LinkedIn

Contact Us For further information on flooring, wall protection, and interior solutions that can help bring your biophilic design to life speak to the experts at Gerflor and Gradus. Our solutions help deliver environments where patients, staff, and visitors can thrive.

Gerflor Flooring Visit: gerflor.co.uk Tel: 01625 428 922 Email: contractuk@gerflor.com

Gradus Accessories Visit: gradus,com Tel: 01625 428 922 Email: imail@gradus.com

A sports floor surface is arguably the most important element of a sporting facility to its players, and to those who design, build and manage indoor sports premises (whether this be in the education, leisure, fitness market), their requirements high on the agenda is the need for a high quality and sustainable sports floorings that consistently delivers the comfort, safety and performance aspects that are so crucial to everyone taking part in sport.

The fundamental importance of the role of indoor sports floorings to environments like clubs, gyms, sports halls, leisure centres and multi-use facilities can therefore not be underestimated, regardless of whether they are low-impact or elite performance sports locations. This also extends to educational establishments like schools, colleges and universities where long-term injuries to the bones, joints and ligaments of budding athletes, especially those still growing, could cut short a potential sporting career.

Clearly aesthetics, acoustics, hygiene, resistance to wear, easy maintenance and good indoor air quality are key factors to sports venues. But when it comes to reducing the risk of injury, minimising the severity of an injury should it occur, and helping to prevent both short and long-term impact injuries, then the choice of sports flooring is critical.

For specialist sports facilities with volleyball, badminton and other racket sport courts, for example, it is a case of selecting the ideal sports surface for the game so specifiers may need guidance from specification specialists. Equally important is the correct choice of flooring for multi-use venues where there is a need to accommodate other activities in addition to sport such as concerts, assemblies and examinations which require the use of occasional tables and chairs.

Flooring manufacturers specialising in sports flooring have therefore developed new product innovations to provide the best possible flooring solutions to meet the needs of varying sports facilities and to achieve the perfect balance between co-efficient of friction and easy movement.

There are different types of sports floors and the most commonly used include point elastic flooring for multi-use to elite sports venues, area elastic sports such as sprung wooden floors that are good for ball bouncing games, and combined area-elastic and point elastic flooring offering differing benefits. European sports flooring standard EN 14904 outlines the minimum performance requirements for floor coverings classified as indoor sports flooring.

Point elastic flooring offers three levels of shock absorbency depending on the centre for different usage. A point elastic P1 flooring provides 25% shock absorbency retention, with P2 35% and P3 45% respectively. A P3 flooring provides the greatest level of impact control and will instantly absorb impact with the floor thereby meeting the requirements of elite sports flooring.

Additionally, the Impact Protection Index (IPI) indicates the protection levels a sports flooring will provide. The higher the IPI level, the higher the protection gain and impact injury when falling, diving or sliding on the floor. The highest-level achieving products on the market have an IPI of 88%, giving greater protection to players of high-risk sports. Whereas an IPI of 50% is more suited to lower risk sports.

Combined elastic and double density foam sport floor systems also enable foam technology that allows the lower layer to compress while the upper layer remains firm. This prevents fatigue through twice the area of the foot allowing for greater freedom of movement in rotation whilst permitting a secure foothold that minimises risk of injury.

Multi-layer shock absorbing P3 floorings are 12mm thick with a foam layer and an IPI level of 88%. P3 floorings comprising vinyl PVC sheets reinforced with fibre glass grid also give outstanding stability. A P1 flooring with a double fibre glass grid offers greater resistance to indentation in multiuse locations.

In some sports flooring systems built-in, easy maintenance, intelligent surface treatments provide a perfect compromise between slide and grip when appropriate sports shoes are worn.

Timber sports floorings are also popular for their traditional good looks. However, certified hardwood sports flooring, available when installed with an undercarriage system provides a resilient sprung floor with the values of area elastic and shock absorbency.

Today’s indoor sports floorings couple visual impact with advanced technology to provide the heightened performance and safety characteristics that sports environments demand. Attractive designs in PVC flooring, including wood effects, provide specifiers the choice needed to create interior spaces that reflect brand and image.

As the performance qualities required differ from sport to sport and venue to venue, the next generation of sports floorings is rising to the challenge of delivering champion solutions.

Taraflex® sports flooring from Gerflor has been fitted at over 47% Olympic Games since 1976. Approved by numerous National and International governing bodies as a world-class sports surface, it is also widely installed within the education, community, leisure, health and fitness sectors.

Taraflex® is ideal for new build projects and refurbishments and is extremely durable and costeffective to maintain. Over 6 million pupils every day enjoy the benefits of Taraflex® sports flooring, as it delivers a versatile range that can be used for various multi-specialist applications.

Taraflex® is treated with Protecsol®, which renders polish redundant. With its triple action meaning no polish is ever required, it contributes to easy maintenance and anti-friction burn and slide/grip. Meanwhile, surface reinforcement and abrasion resistance is provided by a D-Max fibre glass grid. The flooring offers maximum hygiene with bacteriostatic and a fungistatic treatment which provides easy maintenance, friction protection and ‘intelligent’ sliding coefficient.

Sports can play a huge part in everyday life. With a complete range of shock absorption P1/P2/P3, Taraflex® sports floors from Gerflor deliver the right solution every time, whether it is for leisure, exercise and play for all ages and abilities.

Let’s Talk about Gerflor!

For more than 80 years, Gerflor has been designing, manufacturing and marketing innovative, decorative and sustainable solutions for floors, walls and finishes. Gerflor is a leading manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior products, including vinyl, linoleum, carpets, and rubber that are ideal for a host of applications and meet each customer’s need across the contract and residential and sports markets. Gerflor Group achieved in 2024 a turnover of around 1,500 M€, operating in over 100 countries and employing 5,000 people.

Gerflor innovations help to create attractive, comfortable, and functional environments, as well as enhance and protect a vast range of interiors. Gerflor solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gerflor works in partnership with a large array of sectors to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

Contact us for further information

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest flooring and finishing innovations.

Available in 85 designs, 10 themed worlds, several technologies, multiple formats and sizes, the breath-taking Creation LVT range is ideal for designers and specifiers who wish to unleash their creativity. With endless possibilities, the Creation LVT collection is perfectly suited for a host of applications including housing, offices, hospitality, retail, public spaces and much more!

Creation LVT can also be mixed and matched from ‘floor to floor’ or ‘floor to wall’ with Mural Revela wallcoverings, perfect for creating unique spaces that leave a lasting impression for all. Thoughtfully created to ensure that decors can be coordinated across a build environment.

Hannah Parkinson, Marketing Product Manager, comments ‘With the new 2026 Creation LVT collection, we’ve redefined what’s possible in design led flooring. This world class range brings together elevated design, exceptional durability, and effortless installation giving our customers the freedom to create spaces that feel both inspiring and enduring. It’s a collection built for the future, shaped by real world needs and our commitment to sustainable innovation.”

Read the full press release here.

By Lewis Leadeatt, Industry Key Account Manager, Gerflor and Gradus Ltd.

As the demands on manufacturing facilities evolve, the need for versatile, and easy to manage flooring solutions becomes increasingly critical within Industrial environments. Historically, epoxy resin has been the ‘go to’ preference for specialist manufacturers in life sciences, high technology, and precision manufacturing. However, with the growing necessity for rapid maintenance, flexible zoning, and sustainable practices, epoxy resin can fall short. Gerflor’s GTI vinyl technical tiles emerge as the superior choice, offering unparalleled ease of management and future-proofing building interiors for any facility.

Let’s take a closer look at the reasoning behind this:

1/ Effortless Maintenance

One of the primary advantages of GTI vinyl tiles is that they are extremely easy to maintain. Epoxy resin floors are prone to developing micro scratches, which eventually lead to cracks and flaking. The maintenance process for epoxy is invasive and disruptive, requiring grinding down to the original substrate and multiple layers of reapplication, each requiring significant curing time. GTI vinyl flooring eliminates these issues. Individual tiles or small sections can be replaced swiftly without halting operations, ensuring continuous production and reducing downtime significantly. This ease of maintenance is crucial for facilities where minimising disruption is a key priority.

2/ Flexible Zoning and Demarcation

As production needs shift, the ability to rezone and demarcate areas efficiently becomes essential. GTI vinyl flooring excels in this regard. Its loose lay installation ensures that tiles can be easily lifted and relocated as needed. Whether End Users need to create new zones, expand existing ones, adjust workflows, or reconfigure production lines, GTI tiles ensure that rapid and straightforward changes can be made on site. This flexibility ensures that facilities can adapt to new demands without the extensive effort and downtime associated with traditional epoxy resin flooring.

3/ Adaptability to Production

Changes Modern facilities to stay at the top of their ‘game’ must be agile, ready to pivot production processes and layouts to meet changing market demands. GTI vinyl flooring supports this agility. Unlike epoxy resin floors that require long periods of curing and can’t be easily modified once installed, GTI tiles can be rearranged with minimal effort. This adaptability allows facility managers to quickly implement changes in production areas, streamline operations, and respond to new challenges without the lengthy disruptions typical of epoxy resin flooring adjustments.

4/ Quick and Clean Installation

GTI tiles offers the benefit of rapid and clean installation, which is particularly advantageous during facility upgrades or expansions.  The loose lay method allows for installation over existing floors, even those with cracks or moisture issues, without the need for adhesives or extensive surface preparation. This results in minimal dust and no introduction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ensuring a safer, cleaner environment during installation and subsequent use.

5/ Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

In today’s business climate, meeting sustainability goals is paramount. GTI vinyl flooring is made with up to 80% recycled content and is fully recyclable at the end of its life cycle. Its installation avoids the use of harmful chemicals and adhesives, reducing the environmental impact. By choosing GTI vinyl, facilities not only enhance their operational efficiency but also contribute to their environmental sustainability goals, aligning with modern ESG standards.

6/ Consistent Performance and Employee Well-Being

GTI vinyl flooring is designed to deliver consistent performance, particularly with its ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) version, which is factory-certified for conductivity. This ensures reliable protection against static discharge, critical in sensitive manufacturing environments. Additionally, the ergonomic benefits of GTI flooring cannot be overlooked. Studies have shown significant reductions in shocks, vibrations, and overall fatigue for employees working on GTI floors compared to epoxy, enhancing worker comfort and productivity.

Summary

GTI vinyl flooring stands out as the natural choice for future-proofing an industrial facility, providing unparalleled ease of management, flexibility in zoning, and adaptability to production changes. Its rapid and clean installation process, combined with superior maintenance capabilities, ensures minimal disruption to operations. Furthermore, GTI’s commitment to sustainability and employee well-being makes it a forward-thinking solution for any modern facility. Choosing GTI vinyl flooring ensures industrial facilities are ready to meet the dynamic demands of today and the unforeseen challenges of tomorrow.

Note about the Author

Lewis Leadeatt is an Industrial Key Account Manager at Gerflor and Gradus Ltd. His remit includes assisting clients with Industry specification in the Life Sciences | High Technology | Manufacturing sectors that adhere to the latest standards and compliance with industry regulations.

The Gradus Lunar Carpet range brings the tranquil beauty of the moon into any environment. With six neutral designs reflecting the moon’s subtle tones and five muted colours inspired by the cosmos, Lunar’s versatile palette is perfect for creating open, flexible spaces or distinct zones. The random laying pattern ensures a unique and dynamic floor scheme every time, making it ideal for commercial offices, educational settings, and hospitality spaces. To complement the range, pair with Gerflor’s world class Creation 55 Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) in wood and mineral designs.

The Lunar collection, already recognised and valued for its modern aesthetics and organic design, now includes five new finishes: Astral Blue, Cosmic Pink, Celestial Peach, Aurora Green, and Solar Yellow. These new additions offer Interior Designers and Specifiers even more freedom to introduce subtle colour, calm, and warmth to high and medium-traffic interiors. Whether you’re looking to create a serene environment with Astral Blue, add a touch of elegance with Cosmic Pink, or bring a fresh, natural feel with Aurora Green, the Lunar collection has something for every design vision.

Commenting on the newly refreshed Lunar range of colours Hannah Parkinson, Marketing Product Manager at Gerflor and Gradus and the mind behind the collection inspiration said, “We are pleased to introduce a palette extension, which offers a harmonious blend of tranquil tones inspired by the moon’s surface and the colours of the wider universe, without overwhelming a space. These non-directional designs bring a quiet sophistication to spaces such as education environments and commercial offices, while maintaining the durability required in these demanding settings as well as comfort for all users.”

The new Lunar shades at a glance include:

• Astral Blue – a soft blue that calms and soothes perfect for creating a serene environment.

• Cosmic Pink – a muted rose that introduces gentle warmth adding a touch of elegance.

• Celestial Peach – a pale peach that delivers a warm, ambient glow ideal for cosy spaces.

• Aurora Green – a sage-infused tone that reconnects with nature bringing a fresh and natural feel.

• Solar Yellow – a golden hue that brings energy and optimism perfect for brightening up any room.

The new shades in the Lunar carpet collection from Gerflor can complement a variety of themes including the below:

Modern Minimalism: Shades like Astral Blue and Celestial Peach work well with clean lines and simple, uncluttered spaces. They can be paired with neutral furniture and sleek, contemporary decor.

Nature-Inspired: Aurora Green and Cosmic Pink are perfect for themes that bring the outdoors inside. They can be used alongside natural materials like wood and stone, alongside plenty of plants to create a serene, earthy environment.

Warm and Cosy: Solar Yellow and Celestial Peach can create a warm, inviting atmosphere. These colours can be combined with soft textiles, warm lighting, and comfortable furniture to make a space feel cosy and welcoming.

Playful and Energetic: Solar Yellow and Cosmic Pink can add a fun, vibrant touch to any room. Use alongside bold patterns, colourful accents, and playful decor to create a lively and dynamic space.

Elegant and Sophisticated: Astral Blue and Aurora Green can bring a touch of elegance to a room. Pair these shades with luxurious fabrics, metallic accents, and sophisticated furniture for a refined look.

These themes can help Designers to create unique and visually appealing environments that reflect their personal style and the mood they wish to create. Whether the collection is applied across open-plan offices, collaborative spaces, or educational settings, Lunar offers a visually engaging surface that aligns with the latest design narratives. Each new shade has been carefully curated to complement Gerflor’s wider flooring portfolio, including LVT, linoleum, and heterogeneous vinyl collections, empowering designers to create fully co-ordinated interior schemes with confidence.

Designed with flexibility in mind, Lunar tiles measure 500mm x 500mm and are non-directional, enabling random lay installations that support creativity and reduce waste during fitting, ideal for fast-track refurbishments and adaptive reuse schemes.

In addition to aesthetic versatility, Lunar is also a sustainable flooring solution. The polymermodified bitumen backing contains 75% recycled content, contributing to a total recycled content of 62% and are fully recyclable. Backed by a 12-year wear warranty and a 10-year antistatic warranty, Lunar tiles combine long-term performance with mindful materiality.

Gerflor Company Overview

Gerflor is a leading manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior flooring solutions, including vinyl, linoleum, carpets, and rubber that are ideal for a host of applications.

Gerflor innovations help to create attractive, comfortable, and functional environments, as well as enhance and protect a vast range of interiors. Gerflor solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gerflor works in partnership with a large array of sectors to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest flooring innovations.

Taraflex®, building a sustainable future…

Gerflor’s new Taraflex® is an eco-designed flooring solution that reduces carbon emissions without compromising on its technical performance. In addition to delivering the highest quality, Gerflor is committed to sustainability and responsible resource management. By 2025, Gerflor aims to achieve a number of environmental targets which includes a 20% reduction in its carbon footprint, together with delivering 10% bio-based content with 30% of their products made of recycled content. The overall aim is to also enable 35% of future installations to be loose laid. This initiative will be bolstered by delivering 60,000 tons of annual recycling coupled with 81% of their products made of bio-content, mineral and recycled material. It’s a bold eco-move to make Gerflor the real champions in sustainability.

Commenting on the sustainability features of Taraflex® David Carter, Gerflor National Sales Manager Sports Flooring said, “Thanks to its high natural and recycled content and comprehensive eco-design, Taraflex achieves an exemplary 43% smaller carbon footprint than the previous version, which is a notable choice for any decarbonising building interior projects. 81% of the new Taraflex® sports flooring is made from salt, recycled content, bio content, and chalk”.

The new Taraflex® sports flooring from Gerflor takes sustainability to the next level by also incorporating soya waste discarded by the animal feed industry, significantly reducing the environmental impact of its production. With low VOC emissions and allergen-free properties, Taraflex® fosters a healthy indoor environment. It is designed to support the well-being of everyone, from athletes to spectators, contributing to cleaner air quality and improved safety. Very simply…choosing the new Taraflex® sports floor means making an active contribution to a greener and more sustainable future.

Champions in safety…

The all-important element of safety is also seen as a crucial factor in delivering the high quality synonymous with this world class sports floor, which is crafted for excellent fall protection, helping to minimise the risk of injuries. Taraflex® is supremely versatile and is suitable for a variety of uses—from intense athletic events to community gatherings. As with most end user requirements the durability of any sports floor plays a vital role in the final specification decision. Taraflex® is built to withstand rigorous sports activities, and is suitable for high foot traffic. It has become the leading choice in sports flooring for a large selection of UK sports and leisure venues, as well as in the Education and Public sectors.

David Carter, further commented, “The new Taraflex sports floor is more than just a flooring solution, as it helps to amplify the energy and performance of athletes during every match or game, providing a powerful foundation for success.”

Champions in performance…

Taraflex® is made for all users and usages, from low impact activities to elite and performance sports. Shock absorption properties minimise the force of impact on the body and reduce long term injury risk. Taraflex® technologies ensure long-lasting high performance throughout the product’s lifetime with a warranty of 15 years.

Providing an enriched design capability…

With a wide choice of designs, including 29 colours, featuring both wood and solid finishes, the improved Taraflex® range ensures a perfect match for a vast range of projects and all budgets. Whether specifiers or designers are looking to create a standout sports area or a cohesive design across multiple facilities, Taraflex® allows them to customise their flooring needs to suit their aesthetic preferences.

Paris Games 2024…

As the official sports flooring supplier for the Paris 2024 Games, Gerflor was dedicated to providing three key priorities of safety, performance, and sustainability. Gerflor floors are engineered to support athletes at the highest level, while upholding their commitment to the environment.  Gerflor innovate by combining sporting excellence with environmental responsibility. At the 2024 Paris Games Gerflor supplied over 33,000 m2 of flooring for 8 sports providing 40 sports surfaces.

Versatility and Future Proofing…

Over 8 million pupils everyday enjoy the benefits of Taraflex® sports flooring as it delivers a versatile range that can be used for various multi-specialist applications. Taraflex® is ideal for new build projects and refurbishments and is extremely durable and cost effective to maintain.

The Triple Action Protecsol® surface treatment ensures that no polish is ever required for the lifetime of the floor, it also saves on both water and energy consumption, as part of a cleaning and maintenance regime, excellent news for the planet and future generations.

Taraflex® meets the EN 14904 Standard, which is the minimum performance requirements to be met by indoor sports floors. Its objective is to draw attention to the necessity of installing safe and comfortable floors that will reduce the risk of injuries.

With a complete range of outstanding sports surfaces that can meet specification requirements for compliance with P1/P2/P3 shock absorption Taraflex® sports floorings are perfect for delivering optimal safety and protection for users, regardless of their age and sporting ability. The combination of D-Max™/D-Max™+, CXP™HD foam, ensures that Taraflex® sports floorings are durable, high-performing and stand the test of time. The exclusive Taraflex® technology ensures that the sports floors are longer-lasting …a massive boon, when long-term planning and budgeting are perceived as being two key considerations for specifiers.

David Carter summed up the new Taraflex® sports flooring by saying, “Whether in sports facilities, schools, or commercial spaces, Taraflex adapts perfectly to a variety of environments and applications. This provides unmatched performance and flexibility. The new Taraflex sports floor now gives millions of children the chance to play their favourite sport comfortably and safely every day.”

Gerflor Company Overview

Gerflor is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior flooring solutions, including vinyl, linoleum, carpets, and rubber. Gerflor innovations help to create attractive and functional environments, as well as enhance and building interiors . Gerflor solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building, whilst also reducing long term maintenance costs. Gerflor works in partnership with the commercial sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest flooring innovations.

Tailored Solutions for High-Traffic Area

Gerflor’s Creation 70 Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is designed to meet the demands of bustling hospitality environments such as hotel lobbies, restaurant dining areas, bar floors, and reception spaces. Its realistic wood and mineral designs, combined with a durable wear layer, ensure that Creation 70 withstands heavy foot traffic while maintaining its visual appeal. With low-maintenance and slip-resistant properties, it offers both aesthetics and safety for high-impact areas.

Acoustic Comfort for Tranquil Spaces

In environments where acoustic performance is critical, such as guest rooms, spas, and wellness areas, Gerflor offers Creation 55 Zen. This innovative LVT solution features sound-absorbing properties that help reduce noise, creating a calm and serene atmosphere—vital for ensuring a relaxing guest experience. Available in a wide range of designs, Creation 55 Zen allows for the creation of tranquil, yet visually appealing spaces that enhance the overall guest experience.

Safety  Design for Staircases and Corridor

Safety is always a priority in hospitality spaces, particularly in high-traffic areas like staircases and corridors. Gerflor’s slip-resistant flooring solutions, in combination with Gradus XT Stair Edgings, offer enhanced slip resistance to reduce the risk of slips and falls. The XT Stair Edgings, available in premium finishes such as satin bronze and brushed stainless steel, ensure that safety is maintained without compromising on style. For a touch of luxury, Gradus also offers illuminated LED Stair Edgings, combining functional lighting with safety and aesthetics.

Elegance and Functionality in Bedrooms

For guest bedrooms and suites, Gerflor’s Creation 55 Zen and Lunar Carpet Tiles combine to offer both luxury and functionality. Creation 55 Zen LVT provides exceptional acoustic performance while the Lunar Carpet Tiles, inspired by the lunar landscape, offer sound insulation and a calming organic design. This pairing not only enhances comfort but also allows for elegant, coordinated design schemes, creating a peaceful retreat for guests.

Waterproof and Hygienic Solutions for Bathrooms and Spa Areas

For wet areas such as ensuites, spas, and bathrooms, Gerflor’s waterproof solutions stand out. The Mural Revela wall covering, available in realistic stone, marble, and cement designs, adds a touch of luxury while offering practical, water-repellent benefits. The Taralay Impression Acoustic vinyl flooring provides both sound insulation and comfort underfoot, while Tarasafe Ultra Safety Flooring ensures slip-resistance even in wet conditions, meeting HSE guidelines. These solutions combine hygiene with design, ensuring that guest well-being is a top priority.

Stylish and Robust Bar and Restaurant Areas

In busy bar and restaurant settings, durability is essential, but so is aesthetic appeal. Gerflor’s Creation 70 LVT is the perfect choice for high-traffic areas, offering realistic wood and mineral finishes that bring a touch of elegance to hospitality venues. In addition, SureProtect Design wall cladding provides contemporary wood-effect protection, safeguarding walls from impacts while maintaining a stylish appearance. Gradus’ LED Architectural Lighting profiles can be incorporated into bar areas to create a visually striking ambiance, subtly illuminating surfaces with adjustable light tones.

Conference Facilities and Event Spaces

Gerflor’s range also includes tailored solutions for conference and event spaces, where comfort and acoustic control are essential. Times Square Carpet Tiles provide excellent impact noise reduction, offering a sophisticated geometric design that enhances the aesthetic of large meeting rooms. Gradus’ LED Architectural Lighting profiles allow operators to control the room’s ambiance with flexible lighting options, making conference spaces more dynamic and adaptable to different event types.

Durability for Gym and Fitness Areas 

For fitness centres and gym spaces within hospitality venues, flooring solutions must be able to withstand heavy use and impact. Gerflor’s Powershock Rubber Flooring is designed to resist static loads and protect against the impact of weightlifting equipment, making it ideal for cardio and free-weight zones. SureProtect Endure Wall Cladding offers additional protection to walls in these areas, ensuring a long-lasting, damage-resistant interior.

Discover the Full Range of Gerflor Hospitality Solutions

With a broad selection of innovative products, Gerflor’s expanded Hospitality Collection provides comprehensive solutions that balance performance, design, and sustainability. From high-traffic areas to serene spa environments, Gerflor offers products that cater to every need in hospitality spaces. To explore the full range of flooring and wall solutions for your next project, discover Gerflor’s and Gradus’s latest Hospitality brochure and experience the future of hospitality design.

Explore the full range of Gerflor & Gradus Hospitality products!  

To request a printed brochure or for free samples, get in touch with one of our Hospitality specialists by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for latest information on floorings, for information on wall protection and accessory solutions email imail@gradus.com or visit gradus.com.

The Creation LVT range from international flooring specialist Gerflor is an extremely well established, credible, world class brand that continues to appeal to Specifiers and Designers alike with a host of vibrant and stunning decors that both inspire and stimulate the senses. The most popular designs and colourways are branded as the ‘Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection’. It’s an all -in -one solution delivering inspirational and exclusive finishes, which for 2023, now includes the stunningly beautiful Herringbone designs. The collection is stocked in UK, for fast delivery, when time is of the essence for building projects.

As a global manufacturer competing in world-wide markets, excellence in design is fundamental to Gerflor floorings. Headed by their Creative Director, Gino Venturelli, their in-house Design and Research team work closely with Specifiers from around the world, studying international design influences and identifying key trends related to the world of fashion, interior design, architecture, and surface finishes. Gino Venturelli commented, “We also draw inspiration from natural materials such as wood, stone, marble and concrete, as well as graphics and architectural forms, whilst adding new colour blends and surface treatments.” Gino Venturelli added, “The results are applied to the creation of our pioneering, design-led, flooring innovations that are tailored to the individual markets we serve. The Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection has been created using this approach to provide the ideal solution for a range of inspirational projects.”

The earliest examples of the herringbone pattern can be seen in the intricate jewellery of the ancient Egyptian elite and in fabric originating in ancient Italy. In the Roman Empire, the herringbone pattern was used in road paving systems to create extremely durable and stable thoroughfares. It has become a popular and contemporary design that is used in building interiors for a unique and distinguished finish. There are four herringbone designs within the LVT Essential Collection, perfect for a vast range of creative briefs which includes Quartet, Ballerina, Twist and Bostonian Oak Beige. All the designs are available in Herringbone Dryback formats and selected references are also available in Herringbone Rigid Acoustic formats,

Hannah Parkinson, Product Manager (Gerflor/Gradus) UK commented,” The addition of the new Herringbone designs in our Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection, provides a further design opportunity for Specifiers and Designers alike. Offering even more striking & beautiful new finishes, is a remarkable enhancement to an already stunning and contemporary flooring collection. Being able to offer increased choices from our Creation 55 LVT range, is where our research and development really delivers more for our customers. It’s a collection that can adapt itself to zoning-out working areas, or to create a feature space within a building environment. An additional bonus is that these references are also stocked in UK, for a fast turnaround.”

Design Collection Overview

The Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection now boasts 21 spectacular finishes comprising of a myriad of design classics.

The Mineral shades embrace concrete and stone effects, which are given a makeover by adopting cruder more natural textures. An example of this is the brand-new Curton Stone Light Grey reference, which combines the brutalism of natural stone and mountain rocks in their purest interpretation.

With Creation 55, the Natural Wood raw and elegant shades adopt darker hues, donning more traditional, contemporary, and elegant shades with an enhanced realistic design. Interiors are now gravitating towards a 100% natural look, free of all varnish and frills. It’s the luscious look of living nature, where you can forget waxed floors, varnished boards, and polished parquets. Examples include, the ever-popular Riverside, Long Board, Rustic Oak, Oxford, together with Ranch and Arena finishes. It’s a tantalising range of colours that will grace any project turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. It’s a spectrum of colour choices for inspirational hardworking interiors.

Exclusive embosses…

Taking the creative process further and for more enhanced designs, the Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection embossing process also allows vinyl to achieve an even more realistic and natural wood or stone appearance. The striking embossed designs to choose from include, Brushed, Stone, Saw Effect, together with Hammered and Natural. This exclusive element of the Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection provides yet another design dimension that truly sets this innovative range apart.

Mixing it up…

When a customised interior is at the forefront of a Designer’s eye, the need to explore the world of possibilities by mixing and matching colours with specific designs really becomes crucial. With Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection Mix and Match options, Designers can combine, contrast, or mix up finishes completely for a unique and customised floor scheme. The options are simply limitless providing a vast palette of incredible choices.

Unrivalled surface treatment …

The Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection also comes with the innovative Protecshield™ Treatment from Gerflor, which preserves the beauty of the floor-covering over the years, preventing dirtying and wear over time and offering overall optimal protection. The exclusive new Protecshield™ Treatment is an invisible film that protects against micro-scratches and dirtying without changing the matt appearance of the coating. In addition to protecting against external damage during day-to-day use, this new system makes maintenance much easier and cost effective.

Formats available…

The collection comprises of references available in the below technology formats:

Dryback which is ideal for new build and has the largest choice of designs and provides the opportunity to mix and match.

Solid Clic with the exclusive Clic System is perfect for renovation projects and provides great acoustic qualities and walking comfort.

Rigid Acoustic is the Ideal choice for heavy renovation projects and comes with an integrated acoustic backing.

Looselay is the ultimate removable installation solution, ideal for raised access floors and also enables Mix and Match designs.

Other Benefits…

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are one of the fastest growing trends in flooring. Environmentally friendly, LVT offers improved indoor air quality (IAQ) performance and are the perfect solution for low maintenance and easy installation, together with being a ‘must have’ when a reduction in lifecycle costs is an absolute requirement of the specification process.

Super-quick service…

Gerflor now has an even wider LVT portfolio for the market, in terms of extensive designs, installation methods and accessories, which are all backed up with a customer dedicated package (fast delivery, expert technical service and on-line interior design tools). Over the decades, Gerflor has established itself as a credible manufacturer of vinyl flooring tiles and planks for both professionals and private homeowners. With market demand predicted to be growing, the Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection is held in stock for fast delivery at Gerflor’s brand new modern Winsford distribution centre, providing an ‘essential’ service when fast delivery is required for projects without compromising on quality.

Making a positive mark on the planet…

Gerflor’s’ manufacturing footprint in Europe is rated at ISO 9001, 14001 & 50001 certifications, with the emphasis on using and providing renewable energy solutions where possible. All Gerflor products are 100% recyclable with up to 55% recycled content and always provide adhesive-free solutions with packaging using 100% recycled cardboard. Gerflor are 100% Reach compliant, Phthalate free*, Formaldehyde free and deliver Indoor Air Quality: TVOC

Summary…

The time has come to feel inspired with a vast variety of design possibilities. The Creation 55 LVT Essential Collection from Gerflor which now includes the sensational Herringbone Design offers a raft of boundless design perspectives, delivering first class quality, on trend, fashion-led designs that are made both accessible and incredibly easy.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.

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Being able to overturn the thinking and day to day codes that prevail in the sports flooring environment is seen by Gerflor as a crucial move in providing customers with a range of innovative new colours and designs. When it’s time for change…it’s time for change!

Spearheaded by their Creative Director, Gino Venturelli and an in-house design and research team, Gerflor have again harnessed this talent to create these new exclusive designs, in line with current trends. Herringbone for a modern look inspired by noble materials and concrete for an industrial and urban touch. Their masking power make them ideal for multipurpose applications. Gerflor took a long hard look at the market to develop these six new designs which would both excite and inspire designers and architects. The new designs are a real reflection of a modern way of living, together with mirroring key contemporary trends that are prominent in everyday living.

The new exclusive Taraflex® Multi-Use designs include Pure Concrete, Pure Concrete Lagoon, Pure Concrete Dark and Pure Concrete Blue. These spectacular new designs are also joined by Natural Herringbone and Golden Herringbone wood effect designs with added realism.

New trends in design define the collections from Gerflor who are constantly striving to produce a whole new world of colours and textures that are stretching the boundaries of flooring design. It’s a doctrine that potentially dictates the look and appearance of the space we inhabit.

Taraflex® Multi-Use protects users with excellent shock absorption and impact protection of 25% to 35% (complies with EN Standard 14904). It’s also hard wearing enough to protect itself against non-sport demands often found in many demanding education environments, such as the movement of tables, chairs, and exercise equipment. This is due to improved indentation resistance and recovery through Gerflor’s new innovative CXP HD+ foam technology.

Commenting on the new collection David Carter, National Sales Manager – Sports Flooring, Gerflor said,” Being able to offer our customers a new exclusive collection of Taraflex Multi-Use designs has opened up even more possibilities for designers and architects. Creating six new wood and concrete designs will enhance any sports flooring project whether it is for renovation or a new build. These iconic new designs form part of our programme and commitment to on-going creative innovation.

It’s a worthy point to note that our new exclusive sports surfaces still come with the same world class technical performance of all our ranges…outstanding comfort, safety and protection for all, regardless of their age and ability when exercising or team play.

Gerflor supply their world-beating Taraflex® vinyl sports flooring to a host of education, sporting and wellness facilities in the UK which include Schools, Universities, Sports Centres and Gymnasiums.

Keeping it green…

As a world leader in resilient floor coverings the Gerflor Group is heavily committed to the future generations who will inhabit our World, and are now taking progressive, positive action to reduce their environmental footprint through a strong CSR policy.

Gerflor emphasis is on providing a small carbon footprint.  Four years ago, the Gerflor Group linked up with recycling leader PAPREC in France, to create a plan for the recovery of laying offcuts and “clean” end-of-life products, known as Floor to Floor. Recycled materials generated by Floor to Floor are sent directly to Gerflor production sites, where they are incorporated into new products.

Using flooring products that are sustainable, suitable, and fit for purpose is a crucial element of the specification process. Taraflex® Multi Use is made from 37% post manufacturing recycled waste, easily allying itself with this eco driven requirement. International flooring specialist Gerflor is a worldwide credible supplier of a complete range of eco responsible sports flooring solutions for a host of education environments.

Gerflor is committed to increasing its efforts at all production stages to preserve our planet’s natural resources. The Gerflor Group constantly strives to optimise its manufacturing methods. Its stance is to develop easy-to-live-with solutions that will improve the users’ everyday well-being and comfort but without sacrificing protection of the environment.

As a market leader with more than 80 years of expertise Gerflor manufactures and distributes innovative, design-led, eco-responsible solutions for covering floors and walls. The Group is present in both the contract and housing sectors including education, healthcare, offices, retail industry, housing, fitness, and sport sectors. Gerflor has 4,000 employees working in 12 production plants and 29 subsidiaries in 100 countries around the world.

Taraflex® indoor sports surfaces technical overview

Taraflex® sports flooring has been fitted at every Olympic Games since 1976. Approved by numerous National and International governing bodies as a world class sports surface, it is also widely installed within the education, community, leisure, health, and fitness sectors. Taraflex® is ideal for new build projects and refurbishments and is extremely durable and cost effective to maintain. Over 6 million pupils everyday enjoy the benefits of Taraflex® sports flooring, as it delivers a versatile range that can be used for various multi-specialist applications.

The flooring offers maximum hygiene with bacteriostatic and fungistatic treatment and comes with the Triple Action Protecsol® surface treatment which provides easy maintenance, friction protection and ‘intelligent’ sliding coefficient.

Sport can play a huge part in student life. With a complete range of shock absorption P1/P2/P3, Taraflex® sports floors from Gerflor, deliver the right solution every time whether it is for exercise or play for all ages and ability.

It’s important to note that alongside the Taraflex sports range, Gerflor can provide sports flooring solutions for all situations.  With first-class leading sub-constructions for increased shock absorption or linoleum playing surfaces such as the DLW Sports range, there is no facility that cannot be improved with the introduction of a sports surface from Gerflor.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 03332 412901, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.

Zoning, statement floors and personalised flooring with logos are all key vogues that we are seeing an increased hunger for. Whether clients are designing a new facility, or re-designing an existing one, the influence that the flooring finish can have on overall aesthetics, sustainability and performance cannot be dismissed . The capacity to create a bespoke design or unique effect is crucial in the overall planning and layout of many education, healthcare, retail, sports, and office environments.

The MyFloor Service  from Gerflor enables designers and specifiers alike to go even further with their imagination using digital printing as a means to translate their vision into reality. It’s where creativity meets technology, head on in a wonderful arena of fore-sight, ingenuity, and inspiration. It’s a simple process for the designer or specifier, they imagine the design and Gerflor create it with their high-quality, precision water jet technology. Using this highly accurate system also ensures that designers retain all the product benefits of longevity, durability and hygiene for their chosen Gerflor flooring.

Another benefit with the Gerflor MyFloor service is that by using the waterjet cutting technique, Gerflor can create bespoke designs and logos which further enhance the choices for designers and specifiers. It’s a real boon when a facility wants to customise its ‘look.’ Using this highly precise cutting method customers can create their own unique stamp or brand. Whether it’s a logo, signage on the floor or a bespoke laying pattern, anything is possible with striking precision… and it all can be manufactured with incredible detail with Gerflor’s precision water jet cutting technology.

Descriptive markings such as stop signs on the floor, disabled and wheelchair access, designated seating zones, together with walkways and hand sanitising areas are all made easy to recognise using this service.

The breadth of application for marking floors is huge and helps to create a secure and comforting environment, together with providing a unique and appealing space where visitors can enjoy their visit within the facility. Being able to navigate around any facility is hugely important and marking and zoning floors enables this function more easily.

In this current Covid environment, being able to continuously socially distance has delivered outstanding results for the whole country in the fight against the pandemic. Being able to clearly mark floors to encourage social distancing has been beneficial for all. With the use of signs and bold colours clearly marked on a floor has enabled a host of facilities to encourage social distancing on a tremendous scale. It’s where floor marking, and zoning can really make a significant contribution to the nation’s health.

David Collins-Lafferty, Marketing Manager, Gerflor UK commented, “By utilising and accessing our innovative MyFloor digital water jet cutting service, designers and specifiers across the contract markets, whether it’s for new build or refurbishment projects, can transform their designs into a stunning and striking reality.” David Collins-Lafferty further added, “The Gerflor MyFloor service is incredibly easy to use and enables designers to present drafts and designs for clients, together with producing the final printed floor with either its unique markings or clients’ logos.”

When specifying flooring in desirable settings, designers are increasingly seeing the benefits of luxury vinyl tile and sheet products to create the required finish. With authentic patterns, endless colours, designs and textures to choose from, the possibilities for creating an impressive and stunningly  beautiful floor are now endless. The latest technological advances in vinyl production ensures that being creative with flooring has never been easier. Establishments can not only install a flooring solution that is high-quality, durable and on-trend, but one that is in perfect keeping with the overall look, vibe and theme of the venue. Whether a business chooses to zone or design an impactful statement floor, it can be achieved without compromising on its technical performance or integrity. It’s a fact that floor surfaces are a major visual element in most facilities and will have a significant impact on the internal environment for the user. The use of bespoke logos and waterjet cutting on flooring design also creates brand awareness and re-enforces the sales or corporate message.

A school in Scotland that supports and accommodates 190 pupils with additional needs has been built to deliver an education environment worthy of its staff and students. ‘Carrongrange’ school in Grangemouth provides a raft of support to further enhance the learning and future of its pupils.

When Falkirk Council required flooring for this education project, they turned to international flooring specialist Gerflor to supply 4000m2 of flooring products that could deliver stunning looks, durability, and performance.

The pupils themselves had a hand in designing the badge for the school, and by using Gerflor’s water jet cutting service were able to have their new logo incorporated into the Mipolam flooring installed. Jack Aitken, Education Design Co-ordinator, Falkirk Council commented, “The flooring continues to perform really well. The staff and pupils are absolutely delighted with the flooring design which matched perfectly the flooring concepts designed by our pupils.”

With many years’ experience of water jet cutting technology, Gerflor proudly offers this service for customised flooring designs. Simply send Gerflor your file (preferably AutoCAD) with the design, shape and logo and the required information to produce the design (size, product etc). It really is Simply Done and as easy as that.

International flooring specialist Gerflor are at the very forefront of R&D, creating and manufacturing products that enable a bespoke look and feel for a wide range of their clients.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 03332 412901, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.