Karndean Designflooring’s extra-large tiles offer a streamlined concrete look.
Credit: Tim Ainsworth
The introduction of an extra-large tile size to Karndean Designflooring’s LooseLay concrete collection is finding favour with designers looking for greater flexibility to explore engaging contemporary design and industrial interiors.
From retail and hospitality to public sector spaces, the new tile size is ideal for creating minimalist clean lines and an unbroken effect.
A modern backdrop
Karndean’s latest collection includes three designs, selected from its existing LooseLay range, in a larger 1000mm x 1000mm tile to offer a realistic yet more convenient alternative to poured and polished concrete. Laid in a simple grid pattern, the new format makes it possible to create an on-trend streamlined look quickly and with less environmental impact.
Providing a plain neutral canvas in shades of pale grey, these concrete designs sit smoothly in conjunction with either the clean lines of a fresh white interior or the calming earthy tones of a biophilic scheme. By adding resimercial aspects or unexpected elements, designers can imagine inspirational spaces which will enhance health and wellbeing.
Authentic streamlined concrete design
Concrete flooring is a timeless choice when looking for a modern backdrop and industrial finish in commercial spaces.
With a subtle emboss and matt finish, the creamy-grey tones of Quebec, complex grey shades of Colorado and gunmetal grey mottled effect of Vermont offer a look that’s reminiscent of a concrete floor but without the cost or inconvenience.
Unlike the real thing however, these designs can also be combined to incorporate effective wayfinding and zoning. The larger tiles can be blended with the LooseLay range’s regular 500mm x 610mm concrete design tiles and wood design planks or alternative floor coverings.
Credit: Tim Ainsworth
Convenient easy-fit installation
Karndean LooseLay is designed to be easy to install, featuring a K-Wave friction grip backing that creates a strong bond to the subfloor using a combination of weight and friction, with just tackifier required in high traffic areas and at thresholds. Karndean’s water based tackifier offers twice as much coverage than standard adhesive thus reducing waste and lowering the overall impact on the environment.
Rather than having to replace the entire floor in the event of damage, each tile or plank can be lifted individually, making this the perfect option for vulnerable zones and high footfall spaces. In addition, the loose lay format allows for simple access to underfloor services as required or for flooring to be lifted and reused in another setting.
Enhanced health and wellbeing
Fulfilling a host of stringent health and sustainability criteria and holding impressive accreditations, designers can be reassured that specifying Karndean flooring will not only meet but exceed aesthetic and technical specifications to enhance a greener built environment.
Karndean LooseLay features an incorporated acoustic layer which effectively reduces noise transfer to the floor below by 13dB. For additional protection, tiles can be installed over Karndean’s Versilay InstaShield to achieve sound reduction of 17dB.
Naturally warmer and softer underfoot than concrete, Karndean flooring is also compatible with underfloor heating systems and is easier to keep hygienically clean, requiring no resealing or resurfacing.
