Creating the Mood

Clients are looking to create an appropriate mood for their stores. An outdoor goods store would use something rustic, a fashion store something more radical, while franchised clothing or food stores something repeatable and recognisable.

However, it is important that the product should be “fit for use” in the intended area. You can, for example, use the exact same pattern for the main entrance way and for the quiet jewellery shop in the corner. Designers need to know about the different surface and wear characteristic of floors. And obviously, ease of cleaning and cost of maintenance is also key.

Hugh Krog of Traviata Flooring Systems points out that technology has changed what is available for use in these type of environments. It is no longer the case that concrete and tiles are the only options from a wear and tear perspective. The advent of Luxury Vinyl technology, either in interlocking or glued down options, means you can get any look you require. This can be traditional timber, stone and masonry, solid colour, and even patterned flooring such as herringbone, basket weave, etc.

Traviata currently has two types of flooring that are well proven for use in retail environments.

The first falls into the category of “Rigid Core” LVT. Ranges such as the “Firm Fit” and “IsoCore” are ideal for in store use. These are warm and quiet under foot, easy to clean and available in a large variety of patterns. Users of this type of flooring include Milady’s, Soviet, Drimac, Steers, FNB, Standard Bank, Mercantile Bank, Spitz, Kurt Geiger, Ocean Basket and many more recognisable brands.

The second is the new “Tru-Wood” range. This is 12mm thick large format AC5 laminate. Engineered to perfection this product looks, feels and sounds like genuine timber but has none of the drawbacks of solid or engineered wood. It is very highly scratch-resistant, waterproof, can be used in wet areas and can be wet washed or steam cleaned without any fear of swelling or warping. This product is ideal for high end restaurants where it will look completely authentic but can totally withstand the daily scraping of chairs and tables and handle any spillages.

One of the key benefits that “rigid core” boards bring to the table when doing refurbishments or installing new tenants is that these can be installed with no noise, no mess, no adhesive smells and no inconvenience to neighbouring businesses. They can also be installed over any firm surface – even over existing tiles. Installation is quick and simple and any store can be changed, literally overnight, and be back in business the next morning. No loss of turnover or rent!!