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Beautiful Home Interiors Begin With

f loors FABULOUS

No. 52, 2017

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TRENDS for 2017 Plus… Color of the Year Revealed

Bathroom Remodeling Guide

Looks You’ll LOVE! Carpet, Tile, Wood, Leather, Stone, Luxury Vinyl and more www.fabulousfloorsmagazine.com

armstrong 2017 Weathered Charm with Artistic Flair Our TimberBrushed™ hardwood is textured by gently removing the soft portion of the wood to expose the grain and bring enhanced definition to each plank. Artistic techniques like liming and deep etching further highlight the beauty of hardwood, for color effects with depth and dimension.

International Edition No. 52 | 2017 Welcome to the Q1 2017 issue of FABULOUS FLOORS, a consumer magazine

Design impacts the way we live, work, and interact with one another. The everyday ways that design impacts us can be so subtle they are often overlooked. Our health, emotions, finances, and overall quality of life are influenced by the ways in which we experience our environments.

THE IMPACT OF DESIGN

BY DARLENE MOLNAR, ASID, NCIDQ, LEED AP ID+C

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Consider the settings where we spend most of our time – our homes and offices. The way in which we design our home reflects our personalities and how we wish to live. The bright kitchen shown in the photos was designed for a young family. A vibrant wall color, white cabinetry, and open layout create an upbeat and energetic center for the home. What one family might view as their ideal kitchen, another may find to be too visually active. This home’s living room design, colorful and whimsical, is an approach specific to this family. A different home owner might feel more comfortable in darker hues or a more minimalist environment.

Good design considers the user

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and their personal goals while infusing a designer’s expertise.

The impact of the design, good or bad, can sway the home owner’s mood and contentment.

The techniques used to design our work environments also impact our happiness and productivity.

Good design begins with an in-depth look at how an office functions and carefully programs it to operate at its best. This may include locating departments nearby that work closely together, considering breakout areas for office collaboration, or allocating private areas for confidential operations. Office design may include enforcing company branding with the selection of colors and furnishings. The

influence of design on an office is far reaching. Exposure to daylight and reduction of glare on computers are two common goals a designer may consider with office design as these can affect eye strain and mental health, both of which impact productivity.

Color, layout, and lighting are just a few of the ways that a design’s impact is felt in an environment. User specific preferences may also include factors such as aging in place, ADA accessibility, or sustainable design. The possibilities of design are endless and ever-changing, thus the impact of design continues to evolve and open new doors for influencing our lives.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Darlene Molnar, ASID, NCIDQ, LEED AP ID+C is an NCIDQ Certified interior designer and LEED Accredited Professional who specializes in interior design and construction. In 2012, she was featured on HGTV and named a “Hot New Talent” by Home & Design magazine. In addition to her interior design experience, Molnar has designed products for Crate & Barrel and Umbra. Her broad education includes Parsons New School of Design in Paris, Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London, and the Royal Academy in Copenhagen. She holds an M.A. in Interior Design from the Corcoran College of Art & Design, and is an adjunct instructor in the Interior Architecture & Design Department at George Washington University.

Design reflects the personality and energy of the space’s occupants and can have a profound affect on mood and contentment, from kitchen to living room and beyond.

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FEATURES 3 Refresh and Renew with ARMSTRONG FLOORINGd See what’s new is every category 14 The Impact of Design Design impacts the way we live, work, play and interact with one another.

36 How To Integrate Marble Into Your Interior Design Marble is making huge strides in the interior design world and is becoming more popular than ever before

38 Bathroom Remodeling Guide Courtesy of ConsumerAffairs.com 42 Six Easy Pieces A Trend Takes Hold…. You’ll be surprised!

44 2017 Color of the Year Revealed From Color Marketing Group

On the cover: Willow BendTM Glazed Porcelain wood look from Daltile.

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Q1 2017

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WHAT’s New for 2017?

A Lot Actually…

DEPARTMENTS 8

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ow is the time when we look about our indoor space and dream about the design possibilities.

This issue is devoted to the latest trends for 2017, to give you ideas and show you how you can decorate your own home using Carpet, Wood, Tile, Laminate, Rugs, Resilient, LVT and precious designer materials like Leather and Marble. We deliver on the promise of the possibilities, illustrating what YOU can actually do in your own home.

See, for example, what you can do with the new luxury wood-fashion vinyl plank. Or the amazing décor of porcelain and ceramic tile. How about the timeless inspiration of woods, like American Hardwoods for floors, furniture, cabinetry?

The glory of carpet backed by the performance of a stain- and odorprotecting cushion? And let’s not forget the splendor, colors, patterns and carved surfaces afforded by today’s most advanced fibers and technologies for carpet and rugs. One message should be clear as you read through these pages: There is always something new. It may be a new product.

New also may be a new technology which enhances the look or performance of your favorite flooring fashion. Even as bold as a new flooring category all together…. Like water proof floors and more! Or it may be a new vision from a designer which presents a whole new world ofpossibilities for what you can do in your own home. Because truly good ideas never grow old, we took a look back at 2016 to see what our readers thought of some great products and great designs.

Now’s the perfect time to get inspired!

CARPET COUTURE Carpet… a love affair of the senses.

Color, pattern, texture, softness

16 ALWAYS RESILIENT With today’s resilient floors you truly can have it all!

26 ON THE BOARDS Laminate… Frugal, tough, and gorgeous!!!

(See new wall applications on page 6) 30 TILE IN STYLE A Look for ANY season… and any season in life.

48 WOODN’T IT BE NICE Timeless Beauty and New Beginnings…

Vintage, reclaimed, or exotics, wood has it all!

54 FIND FLOORING FAST A Buyers Guide to what’s inside this issue

Margo Locust Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Q1 2017 No.52 www.fabulousfloorsmagazine.com KENNETH E. LOCUST Chairman MARGO RODGERS LOCUST Publisher & Editor-In-Chief margo@fabulousfloorsmag.com

BARBARA KEMPLER-TOELKE Editorial Assistant

JEANETTE CHASWORTH Jeanette@thecolorwhisperer.com

RAY STEWART Production Manager ray@stewart-comm.com

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

LISBETH CALANDRINO Associate Publisher & Director of Social Media lcalandrino@nycap.rr.com

ALEXANDER & ASSOCIATES Newsstand Director

KAREN GEORGE Managing Editor Karen@fabfloorsmktg.com RON TOELKE Creative Director ron@toelkeassociates.com

BRIDGETTE KELLY Contributing Writer, UK ALEX ROSS fabfloorsalex@gmail.com

B. Briskman, E. A. O’Connell

SPECIAL FEATURE WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ira George, Robert Partain, Andrew S. Rodgers, Karly Tedford, T. C. Lovett, Jasmine Grey, Betty Isaacson SONNA CALANDRINO Founder and Publisher Emerita

Editorial & Advertising Offices 916 Main Street, Andrews, NC 28901, a North Carolina LLC

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678-761-5002 or 828.321.9191

floors FABULOUS

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FABULOUS FLOORS MAGAZINE is published quarterly by Fabulous Floors Magazine, LLC, 916 Main Street Andrews, NC 28901, a North Carolina LLC. Fabulous Floors assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photos, images or artwork. The FABULOUS FLOORS logo is a trademark of Fabulous Floors Magazine, LLC. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and timeliness of information, FABULOUS FLOORS cannot be held responsible for discrepancies, discontinuance of product nor color reproduction.

PRINTED IN THE USA Copyright 2017 Fabulous Floors Magazine.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Full-text content licensed to EBSCO Publishing research databases at www.ebscohost.com.

Armstrong Flooring Introduces PRYZM —a New Innovation in Waterproof and Dent-Resistant Luxury Flooring T

™

armstrong 2017

here’s no need to compromise on good looks when seeking a flooring solution that is waterproof, dent resistant and virtually stain and scratch proof.

For kitchen, bathroom, basement and mudroom flooring, durability, ease of cleaning and moisture resistance are top criterion. These 100% waterproof planks are even wet mop friendly.

Pryzm features the ultimate in durability withstanding the heavy weight of appliances and furniture and daily abuse from kids’ cleats to high heels. The floor’s commercial grade VisionGuard® protects against scratches, surface spills, stains, fading, scrapes and wear-through, making clean up easy.

Easy Installation With Pryzm™ no acclimation time is needed, so it can be installed right away. Its reinforced thermoplastic core enables a smooth installation over subfloors with irregularities. The planks are backed with an acoustical cork underlayment for greater sound absorption. Not only is it fast and easy to install, but it is practically a worry free floor after installation.

Award Winning Design Armstrong Flooring’s exclusive, award-winning MasterWorks Technology® offers twenty unique designs include natural hardwood visuals, with micro-bevel ends and edges. The popular looks are in step with current interior trends, featuring high-end, reclaimed wood looks in diverse species, colors and realistic rustic textures, including the brand new Elements of Heritage, a vintage multi-width design. >>

PRYZM™, a New Innovation in Waterproof & Dent Resistant Luxury Flooring.

Q1 2017

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armstrong 2017 |

Artfully Crafted Hardwood Collections Set New Design Trends For 2017 A

rmstrong Flooring, introduces three new, innovative collections — Woodland Relics™, Artisan Collective™ and Rustics Restoration™

The newest wood collections are inspired by the look of vintage, reclaimed floors, but these are more custom looks; naturally inspired with a focus on careful craftsmanship, distressed, timeworn hardwood looks are still a growing trend and continues to be strong. Distressed flooring infuses a room with natural warmth and mature character. It easily can become a room’s focal point, whether featured against the simple lines of an urban loft or with the causal tones of a traditional, coastal cottage.

Trend-Leading Design New Woodland Relics™ captures the essence of reclaimed, weathered wood, as random and varied as nature itself. Every plank is uniquely crafted using hand-staining, sanding and woodworking techniques like wirebrushing, scraped, strait and circular saw and tool mark textures, that showcase abundant textures and tones. The collection includes a varied sampling of multiple species, widths, colors and textures, all of which are mixed together in random fashion to create a

highly custom look. In every box, there is a unique combination of Birch, Hickory and Oak species, varied width (3", 5" and 7½"), long length (up to 7').

Layers of Color New Artisan Collective™ reimagines the look of distressed wood for a dreamy, easy style, with the distinguishing touch of thoughtfully layered, multi-dimensional tones. In this distinctive hardwood collection, Maple and Walnut come alive with style and beauty. White washed stains reveal natural or gray undertones for a minimalist, muted statement. Black washed natural and brown tones enliven Walnut’s distinctive grain with abundant color variation. Wide width planks — 6¾" and ½" thickness — combine for a more upscale, beautiful floor. This ruggedly durable floor features Armstrong Flooring Lifetime Finish with Nano particles — for strong protection against every day wear and tear. Artisan Collective is ideal for high traffic spaces

Rich Character with a Rustic Touch Build character into a space with the varying tones and textures of Rustic Restorations™ hardwood—a timeless classic born from timeworn beauty, featuring layered stains to accentuate the depth and dimension of Appalachian Oak and Hickory. Double-stained surface treatments provide greater breadth in color, easily coordinating with any current or future décor. These genuine sold hardwood floors also provide the durability needed to last a lifetime with the flexibility to remain in style and on trend.

Armstrong’s tremendous wood offerings touch upon everything from on trend designs to new technology to advancements in durability and performance, shown here, at left: Armstrong Artisan Collective; center: Armstrong Woodland Relics; at right; Armstrong Artisan Collective.

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ARMSTRONG’S DIAMOND 10 Technology… a girl’s best friend!

A ™

rmstrong Flooring, has reinvented Vinyl Sheet flooring — with incredible realism, authentic textures, vivid color and now, the infusion of its patent pending Diamond 10™ technology.

Innovative Diamond 10™ is featured on Premium and Better vinyl sheet floors, making them scratch, scuff and stain resistant. It also repels dirt, making clean-up a breeze.

This superior new level of performance withstands people, pets, scratches and stains, so the floor looks newer, longer. Great styles, easy cleaning and the added durability of Diamond 10™ technology make Armstrong vinyl sheet flooring better than ever, and an ideal choice for any room in the home.

When shopping for resilient flooring or Vinyl, consider Armstrong.

Armstrong® vinyl sheet flooring comes in performance levels and designs to suit any home.

It’s easy to find an ideal vinyl floor with two simple steps: First, select the performance level. Then choose the style, from the charm of traditional and exotic wood visuals to the character of reclaimed timber; or looks that capture the organic beauty of stone with remarkable warmth and comfort underfoot.

Diamond 10™ technology is featured across two popular vinyl collections: ■ The Duality™ collection is where high fashion meets high performance in an innovative construction — with 3D visuals on a durable structure that withstands the most activelifestyles. offers a Lifetime Limited Residential Warranty on Duality™, as well as a 10-Year Limited Light Commercial Warranty.

■ CushionStep™ is warm and soft underfoot with an unexpected level of comfort. And carries a limited 25-year residential warranty. ■

Armstrong’s Diamond 10™ Technology is featured across two popular vinyl collections: above; Cushion Step, at right; Duality.

Q1 2017

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armstrong 2017 |

Wood Look Laminates Drive Flooring Further Up the Wall Armstrong Flooring Introduces Fashion for the Floor and Walls

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ring renewed perspective to the ambiance of a room. Adding tile treatment to walls is nothing new. However today, tile is not the only flooring product that has made its way to the wall. Wood and laminates, and specialty products like Alterna — are finding opportunity beyond flooring.

And this is not your grandmother’s wood paneling any more. These products are being used as accent walls, installed horizontally, vertically or on the diagonal. The look is natural, with a beautiful accent of warmth, texture and color. Wood paneling is back, but in a big, new way.

Right now, wood and wood looks are dominating, with distressed and reclaimed wood looks trending, for both contemporary and traditional settings. It is those attributes that have made Armstrong’s Coastal Living™, Architectural Remnants® and Rustics Premium™ collections best-seller’s for floors, and now as wall accents. These looks are popular in both premium laminate collections, and Alterna™ engineered tile, which also can be used on the floor and walls (except in showers).

Above; Armstrong Alterna Historic District.

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Today’s aesthetics of authentic wood looks make the addition of “wood paneling” an easy, cost efficient project.

A Closer Look…

Alterna is the perfect choice over stone, ceramic and porcelain. The Alterna Reserve engineered stone is very versatile, and is ideal for living rooms, family rooms and bedrooms, in addition to kitchens and bathrooms. Alterna Reserve engineered stone has two new design collections: Grain Directions is reminiscent of a luxurious mountain retreat with warm rustic sensibilities to express a bold, impactful style.

Historic District offers the vintage feel of weathered wood, with texture that mimics the warmth and charm of a quaint seaside cottage. All wood designs can be mixed and matched. Each design is available in multiple sizes, enabling unique patterns to personalize a space. Kits are available to combine designs and complementary sizes, making the buying process simple.

Laminate is often a perfect way to add style, warmth, texture and the artistry of reclaimed wood to a room, at a price that fits most budgets. Now, the beauty of Architectural Remnants® flooring also can hang on a wall. This mid-century design trend has returned to give homes a unique, customized look. The combination of colors and textures create a statement in any room. From accent walls to wainscoting, anyone can elevate walls with Armstrong laminate flooring. ■

At right: Armstrong Seaside Pine Dockside; at top Armstrong Woodland Reclaim Old Original Dark.

Q1 2017

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carpet couture |

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FABULOUSfloors

Pictured here: Casablanca from the Naturals Collection by Tuftex Carpets of California; opposite page bottom: Strathmore Cross

by Helios; background; Maisey by Bloomsburg.

BY LISBETH CALANDRINO, ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Carpet

A Love Affair of the Senses

A

s homeowners flirt with any number of flooring options, they look to carpet which offers alluring beauty, reassuring strength and sensual softness.

Look for soft color palettes—subtle tones—knowing you can have any color you wish!

Look also for textures, patterns and feel. (Soft carpet is still very much “in.”)

Carpet always has been, and continues to be, a rich foundation for décor decisions. You can recreate classic looks or borrow ideas from the elegant homes and design artists you admire for an altogether updated look.

But design can and should also be personal. Carpet choice can be your way to break through conventional thinking and introduce your own personality and vision.

Carpet allows you to make a room cozy, playful, dramatic or elegant. It also helps create a continuous flowing, tasteful design room to room and floor to floor. Carpet is great to match with wood or ceramic, and to create personalized custom looks—and to do so economically. >>

Q1 2017

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carpet couture |

When planning, remember to consider the ways in which a carpet’s yarns are twisted, loose to tight. At issue is both appearance and performance. Generally, the higher or tighter the twist, the better the performance characteristics are apt to be. Higher twists result in more defined, more sophisticated carpet loops. In other words, looser twists are more casual; tighter twists more formal. Tighter twists are also easier to vacuum.

Consider as well the visual texture provided by images like florals and geometrics, or the way a carpet appears to be tailored or sculpted by altering deep and light dyeing, or the application of color flecks in the yarn.

In other words, indulge your imagination and artistic eye and your sense of touch. Noting the hints of color and shading in a carpet, for example, makes it easier when you redecorate to coordinate what you already have, and to see design possibilities uniquely your own. â–

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Above: Orbit in Dark Earth by NOURISON, 100% New Zealand Wool face-to-face wovenon state-of-the-art Wilton looms. Below left; Elegant pattern from Lexmark Carpet; below right; SmartStrand Forever Clean Silk Carpet by Mohawk.

Generally, the higher or tighter the twist, the better the performance characteristics are apt to be.

What I Need to Know About Carpet ■ Before buying, before even shopping, check out your style and lifestyle! Are you casual, formal, city, country, contemporary, traditional, eclectic? Is yours a quiet household, or one full of pets and kid and traffic? Share this with your sales professionals; it goes a long way toward helping them help you find the appropriate product in the style you like. There are styles and performance factors to fit EVERY lifestyle and every fashion sense.

■ Protect your investment in quality carpet with quality cushion that meets the manufacturer’s specifications, and purchase walk-off mats or rugs that capture destructive dirt and grit at entryways, and purchase furniture glides as well. In an office, purchase a large desk mat.

■ Most carpet is sold by the square foot these days.

That’s helpful, considering that homes are measured by the square foot. This also help you to compare the costs of other flooring types. You may find it sold both by the square foot and square yard. If only by the yard, ask for square foot pricing.

■ Want a new look? Try layering. It’s simple. Place an area rug or two on top of your carpet. Ask for a broadloom offered with companion fabric, then create a matching rug bordered in fabric. (You can do this with any favorite fabric, even pieces left over from earlier installations. Or, simply have the leftovers bound on all four edges.)

Mallorca by Tuftex Carpets of California adorns this dramatic staircase.

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The World’s Best Carpet Cushion

TM

Why is Healthier Choice the world’s best carpet cushion? The secret is our Never Crush Foam Technology. We manufacture the only carpet cushion made from 100% High Density Memory Foam. Most carpet cushion today is made from waste or scrap pieces of low density, light weight foams which are glued or bonded F E AT U R I N G

NEVERCRUSH

F12 O A M FABULOUSfloors TECHNOLOGY

together. Our patented, Never Crush Foam Technology offers the luxurious comfort you want while providing the lasting support your carpet needs.

Hydra-Skin™ is a high performance feature unique to Healthier Choice Cushion; it is the only film-less, breathable moisture barrier, which stops liquid spills from penetrating into the cushion while allowing moisture vapor trapped underneath to evaporate and escape.

Healthier Choice Cushion is infused with Ultra-Fresh® Anti-Microbial Protection to inhibit the growth of harmful odor causing mold, mildew and bacteria. It provides permanent protection.

No Odor - Low VOC’s Healthier Choice is the only carpet cushion which is UL GREENGUARD® Gold Certified for low chemical emissions. Breathing high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) is linked to health problems including allergies and asthma.

Our product is also CRI GREEN LABEL Plus Certified.

Made in part with soybean oil and other natural resources, which reduces the consumption of fossil fuel petrochemicals while supporting sustainable agriculture.

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THE IMPACT OF DESIGN

BY DARLENE MOLNAR, ASID, NCIDQ, LEED AP ID+C

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FABULOUSfloors

Design impacts the way we live, work, and interact with one another. The everyday ways that design impacts us can be so subtle they are often overlooked. Our health, emotions, finances, and overall quality of life are influenced by the ways in which we experience our environments.

Consider the settings where we spend most of our time – our homes and offices. The way in which we design our home reflects our personalities and how we wish to live. The bright kitchen shown in the photos was designed for a young family. A vibrant wall color, white cabinetry, and open layout create an upbeat and energetic center for the home. What one family might view as their ideal kitchen, another may find to be too visually active. This home’s living room design, colorful and whimsical, is an approach specific to this family. A different home owner might feel more comfortable in darker hues or a more minimalist environment.

Good design considers the user

and their personal goals while infusing a designer’s expertise.

The impact of the design, good or bad, can sway the home owner’s mood and contentment.

The techniques used to design our work environments also impact our happiness and productivity.

Good design begins with an in-depth look at how an office functions and carefully programs it to operate at its best. This may include locating departments nearby that work closely together, considering breakout areas for office collaboration, or allocating private areas for confidential operations. Office design may include enforcing company branding with the selection of colors and furnishings. The

influence of design on an office is far reaching. Exposure to daylight and reduction of glare on computers are two common goals a designer may consider with office design as these can affect eye strain and mental health, both of which impact productivity.

Color, layout, and lighting are just a few of the ways that a design’s impact is felt in an environment. User specific preferences may also include factors such as aging in place, ADA accessibility, or sustainable design. The possibilities of design are endless and ever-changing, thus the impact of design continues to evolve and open new doors for influencing our lives.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Darlene Molnar, ASID, NCIDQ, LEED AP ID+C is an NCIDQ Certified interior designer and LEED Accredited Professional who specializes in interior design and construction. In 2012, she was featured on HGTV and named a “Hot New Talent” by Home & Design magazine. In addition to her interior design experience, Molnar has designed products for Crate & Barrel and Umbra. Her broad education includes Parsons New School of Design in Paris, Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London, and the Royal Academy in Copenhagen. She holds an M.A. in Interior Design from the Corcoran College of Art & Design, and is an adjunct instructor in the Interior Architecture & Design Department at George Washington University.

Design reflects the personality and energy of the space’s occupants and can have a profound affect on mood and contentment, from kitchen to living room and beyond.

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always resilient |

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FABULOUSfloors

BY MARGO LOCUST, PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

YES!

Yes, You CAN Have It All! R

esilient is a broad term for flooring that includes vinyl, linoleum, rubber and often cork, among others. Today’s resilient blends stunning design with cutting-edge technology, bringing beauty, versatility and performance at decidedly affordable prices. Resilient floors are engineered from both natural and synthetic materials, allowing them to have unique qualities like being firm, yet having “give” or “bounce back.”

But let’s admit it. Some of us see linoleum flooring or vinyl flooring as a yesterday’s flooring, a fossil from another age. That’s no more accurate than mistaking the multi-featured cellphone for Edison’s crank box.

The latest resilient materials offer the remarkable looks and textures of realistic wood grain, natural stone, metal, leather and even fabrics like sisal and linen. >>

Opposite page: Knight Tile from Karndean DesignFlooring, shown here is ST13 Portland Stone.

Below: From Mannington, is Luxury Vinyl Tile stone Visual Relic in color Fossil.

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always resilient | Today’s designers have embraced the resilient innovative flooring options that feature a wide and enticing array of colors and textures, as well as designs and formats. Modern resilient comes in sheets (6 and 12 feet wide), planks and tiles, and provides endless custom design possibilities.

Luxury Vinyl Flooring, called LVT and LVP, available in tiles and plank formats, can allow you to blend the look of stone, wood and metal along borders or as inlays. Imagine resilient sheets and tiles that offer the high-end looks (textures, colors, and patterns) of glass, marble, slate, leather and wood, all at more affordable prices. Blending the contemporary movement toward opalescence and gloss with old world looks, for example, is easy to do with resilient. Remember, however, that installation of borders, medallions, or other custom inlay work not only finish your design, they also add market resale value to your home.

Tough and tasteful. Practical and elegant. Resilient is ready, willing and able to play a supporting role, or to take the lead in any floor design you can envision.

Below: Alterna Grain Directions from Armstrong Flooring.

At right: Palisades Luxury Vinyl Plank from Earthwerks.

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Resilient flooring works great in kitchens, baths, and utility areas, because it is water resistant and extremely durable for those high traffic areas throughout the house. Thanks to easy installation, luxury vinyl is a great addition to your home renovations this summer.

Balterio in Bourbon Everwood from IVC.

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always resilient |

BY KARNDEAN DESIGNFLOORING

Floating Floor Solutions

F

or more than 40 years, Karndean Designflooring has been the known and trusted brand in luxury vinyl tile. Karndean creates and owns each of its product designs, deriving inspiration from nature and providing unparalleled visuals. With Karndean, not only do you receive a beautiful floor, but a practical one. Our floors are waterproof, kid and pet friendly and easy to clean and maintain — meaning you spend less time cleaning and more time with your family. In addition to glue down flooring ranges, Karndean offers three floating floor solutions — Karndean LooseLay, LooseLay Longboard and Korlok — which may be installed over imperfect subfloors.

Like all Karndean floors, our floating floors are waterproof, kid and pet friendly, and carry a lifetime residential warranty. Both formats are easy to install, meaning less upheaval for families, and have acoustic qualities that reduce noise to rooms below, making these products ideal for playrooms or basements. Karndean floating floors are manufactured with a 20 mil wear layer and carry a 15-year warranty in commercial applications.

Karndean LooseLay and LooseLay Longboard offer highquality wood and stone designs secured in place by its K-Wave friction-grip backing.

In October 2016, Karndean introduced LooseLay Longboard, comprised of 12 new wood looks whose longer planks lead to an even faster installation and less disruption for your family. The designs in the LooseLay Longboard collection are inspired by native Australian species, oaks from Europe, and heart pine from the United States. Each of these designs displays the intricate details found in the woods that inspired the collection.

by a premium 5G vertical click locking mechanism that is fast and easy to install. Its innovative, proprietary K-Core is 100% PVC to ensure a stronger, more stable core that can easily be scored and snapped. This layer provides unparalleled dimensional stability for installation over imperfect subfloors and over most existing hard floor coverings. Its attached underlayment makes Korlok Karndean’s most acoustically friendly product to date and is well suited for any environment where you’re looking to reduce noise transfer to rooms below. The collection includes 12 new colorways in a 56" × 9" format.

Karndean Korlok is the newest Karndean product range, available to the consumers in May 2017. a rigid core floor secured

For more information about our floating floor solutions, visit www.karndean.com.

Above: Looselay RP102 in Natural Oak; at right: Korlok RKP 8104 in Washed Grey Ash.

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Karndean LooseLay

Karndean LooseLay

Longboard

French Grey Oak LLP308

Lifetime warranty

Waterproof

Kid friendly

Pet friendly

Extra large planks

Acoustic qualities

Comfortable underfoot

Individually replaceable

Low maintenance

Karndean LooseLay Longboard is our fastest and easiest to install floor, combining our longest plank size with the proven technology of Karndean LooseLay’s K-Wave frictiongrip backing. Find a local Karndean Dealer at our web site for more details.

888-266-4343 | info@karndean.com | www.karndean.com/longboard

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always resilient |

Waterproof floors just got BIGGER, BETTER, BOLDER, … ENHANCED More waterproof decors than ever before!

Introducing…. COREtec® PLUS XL Enhanced

Y

ou won’t believe your eyes, offered in 18 beautifully detailed hardwood decors featuring :

● embossed

grain patterns for realistic visuals ● an attached cork underlayment for sound absorption and warmth ● four-sided Enhanced Bevel edge for the look, feel and detail of real hardwood floors. ● created with the patented COREtec® technology allowing easy handling and installation The USFloors COREtec Plus® Enhanced collection features a variety of planks and tile decors. The 4-sided enhanced bevel simulates the look of genuine wood and tile, making this collection the next revolution in luxury vinyl flooring. With both modern and rustic visuals, these decors guarantee timeless elegance that lasts a lifetime.

A great alternative to glue down LVT, locking LVT, or laminate flooring. The rigid core platform is made from recycled wood and bamboo dust, limestone, and virgin PVC. It provides a 100% waterproof floor that can be installed in wet areas, and will never swell when exposed to moisture or excessive amounts of water.

All COREtec Plus® products are GREENGUARD GOLD Certified making it an ideal choice for sensitive individuals (such as children and the elderly.) With the comfort of cork, the luxury of vinyl and the look of real wood or tile, this floor can live in any room of any home…. How about yours? ■

Above: Venado Oak; at right; Rainier Oak.

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...because

sometimes there just aren’t enough chairs.

Just like your friends, COREtec® flooring is warm, inviting and comfortable.

So spread out and relax...because COREtec is the perfect fit for your life.

100%

Waterproof Kidproof Petproof

find out more at usfloorsllc.com

FLOORS Q1 2017 23

®

Unique and Sustainable Flooring

always resilient |

Thinking of floors, then think Vinylasa.

Vinylasa has been producing VCT floors, LVT and high performance accessories since 1950. Today, the growth of resilient flooring is remarkable and the market offers better products with outstanding features. The market requires stand-out design, comfort, durability and low price. Vinylasa offers high-quality materials that meet these expectations.

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esilient floors are among the first choices for hospitals, schools, retail, public buildings, offices and residences. In virtually all markets, you will find resilient flooring, since both builders and end-users prefer resilient flooring. The advantages include simple maintenance and cleaning, ease of installation, and durability.

Today, with a company committed to protecting the environment as Vinylasa is as demonstrated by their green products, resilient floors still offer the best option. Vinylasa takes care when it comes to health issues, and we produce certified low-emitting VOC’s tiles and planks.

Imagine the beauty of wood at your residence, or a warm marble ‘look’ for a health care center. LVT can provide these benefits and more. If you want quality, high-performance flooring, choose Vinylasa. ■

Vinylasa resilent wood-look plank in a hospital, and below, a gymnasium floor; background: premium resilent tile.

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COMMERCIAL FLOORING Vinylasa is the one most important VCT, LVT and sundries manufacturer in North America. Innovation is our goal to bring you our 65 years of experience in the market with new, fresh and comfortable designs to your home, office or business. Our products are certified by FloorScore. If you know about flooring you know about Vinylasa.

IF YOU THINK OF RESILIENT FLOORING THINK OF VINYLASA Contact your local retailer. Visit us at www.vinylasa.com

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on the boards |

Here, Quick-Step’s Rustique Collection in Toasted Hickory. At right; Sawmill Hickory from Mannington.

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BY KAREN GEORGE, MANAGING EDITOR

Laminate‌ Call it Tough. Call it Frugal.

Definitely Call it Gorgeous!

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aminate flooring, already celebrated for its ability to project the look of hardwood, now offers remarkable innovations in realistic stone, dazzling digital-age images and lustrous glosses. Yet, through all of this, today’s laminate stubbornly insists that beauty should show off its practical side.

Starting with thrift.

Designers are particularly enchanted by wide planks with hand-scraped or wire-brushed distressed looks. Some designers are even mixing plank widths to create a custom look that remains traditional, but is less formal.

Because mixed-media is the design trend, you can create a truly custom look for less, adding in a ceramic, leather or metal tile, for example. Contrasting borders and striking inlays can also make a dramatic appearance at a fraction of the cost.

Designers are particularly enchanted by wide planks with hand-scraped or wire-brushed distressed looks.

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on the boards |

If you’re looking for a really new angle — literally — consider the elegant look of a diagonal floor made of planks or tiles. With laminate’s interlocking, snap-together construction, installation is far easier and costs are significantly less, even with the 15 to 20 percent waste required with such patterns.

Laminate’s wear layer, with aluminum oxide (approaching the hardness of diamonds), provides superior dent, stain and fade resistance, as well as easy maintenance. Many laminates have cores, backings and even joints treated with water repellent chemicals and paraffin. Laminates are also antibacterial, anti-mold, antistatic, and sound insulating — carrying warranties extending from 10 years to a lifetime.

Laminates are also renowned for environmental sensitivity, using a high percentage of renewable and recycled materials and maintaining low emission levels.

Laminate’s ability to restyle an individual room or an entire home is a tribute to artistic imagination and technical ingenuity.

And yes, maybe a little attitude. ■

Here; Coastal Living Patina from Armstrong.

Above: Claremont State from Pergo.

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Reclaimed Values by Shaw Laminate.

What I Need to Know About Laminate ■ Laminate is versatile. It can go just about anywhere in your home and installs easily.

■ Installation is easy. Laminate is installed as a “floating floor,” meaning not nailed or glued down. It clicks together. Laminate can go over virtually any solid, intact surface including wood, concrete, tile, resilient, etc. Ask your retailer about manufacturers’ recommendations.

■ Quick. Easy. Laminate fits any budget.

Though you save by doing-it-yourself, our recommendation is always to have your floors professionally installed.

■ Explore thin or wide planks, large and small tile and new looks, such as exotic or hand-scraped wood. The trend in laminate is toward larger formats.

■ Laminate is easier than ever to install as a custom floor. Good news! The cost of the custom look is attractive, because the time to install laminate is greatly reduced, compared with other flooring types.

■ Laminate flooring is low maintenance and extremely durable. Much of that has to do with super-tough wear surface treatments, such as embedded aluminum oxide particles.

■ Ask about the latest sound-deadening underlayment making laminate quiet underfoot and other features that are available with underlayment -such as moisture, mold, mildew and bacteria resistance.

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tile in style |

Here, Candalara Glass from American Olean; opposite page right: Sideview by Crossville; Far right: Serentina from American Olean.

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BY BETTY ISAACSON

A Look for Any Season Using materials as old as the Earth itself, tile is the perfect embodiment of artistic imagination, practicality and environmental responsibility. It’s a look for any season and any season in life.

Today’s tile continues to wed tradition and technological innovation as fashion-forward design artists hearken back to ancient artisans for inspiration.

The result of the perfect paradox? Richer textures, novel formats and breathtaking patterns in an incredible array of colors — from subtle to bold to gorgeously flecked, etched, streaked and dappled. >>

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tile in style | Varieties of tile include ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal, natural stone, mosaics — even handcrafted concrete, cork and leather — and now come in sizes from ¼ inch “pencil” tiles to incredible 64-inch pieces. Larger formats are definitely in fashion, especially for larger spaces.

Look also for the new and dramatic appearance of HD, or high definition, porcelain.

Porcelain tile comes in updated mosaic designs, large format pieces, plank shapes and the latest ultra-thin tiles — just ¼ inch for reduced environmental impact on every aspect of production, from manufacturing to fuel consumption in transportation. Today’s thinner tiles can be ideal for renovation, because you can put them over existing material while minimally raising floor levels. >>

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Porcelain tile comes in updated mosaic designs, large format pieces, plank shapes and the latest ultra-thin tiles. . .

Opposite page far left: Morello by American Olean. At left: Speakeasy from Crossville. Above: Tile in herringbone pattern

by Mohawk

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tile in style | Glosses can be natural, matte or gloss. Cutting-edge processes have created unique crystalline glazes, unusual visuals like watermark motifs, gorgeous veining, richer color shading, and enhanced textures. Metallic finishes are even available.

Unique looks and textures are achieved through various techniques that include polishing, tumbling, honing, flaming, sawing and sand-blasting.

Translucent glass tiles, reminiscent of beach glass, are extremely popular – from blush pink to radiant aqua. Their soft radiance perfectly complements stainless steel appliances and sleek wood elements that define contemporary kitchens and baths.

Now imagine tradition fusing with innovation. Simplicity with intricacy. Artistry with practicality.

Imagine tile… season after season! ■

Above: Serentina from American Olean; here, Restore HDP Thin Tiles from Florida Tile.

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What I Need To Know About Tile Molded, three-dimensional tiles in small-to-large formats can create texture and pattern when used with companion two-dimensional pieces. This is especially dramatic in subtle white-on-white, or gray-on-gray installations.

Decorative and hand-painted styles—some by individual tile artists—can be integrated into your overall tile design. If you choose to include a few such tiles (in fact, any insert or plaque), make sure sizes, not just colors, are compatible.

Planning something special? Ask your retailer or designer to show you photos of tile projects they’ve done. During the planning, shopping phase, bring along a digital photo of the room you’re doing over. Whether it’s ceramic, porcelain, stone or any other tile, great looks are in the details.

Grout lines.

■ What do you like, and what looks best?

■ Thick? Thin? None at all? (These are butted tight.)

■ What colors are available? Coordinating? Contrasting?

Surface finishes ■ Matte? Satin? Shiny? Mixed looks are in vogue!

■ Aside from texture, think color. Ask yourself what mood or feeling are you trying to evoke. Calm?

Bright? Excitement? Fresh? Warm?

■ What colors are your personal favorites? Cut out what appeals to you in magazines and start a file of “best looks.” (This works in all categories!) Bring home paint samples and live with them for a few days, along with the tile you’ve chosen. Light changes during the day and with the source. Decorating is easier when you choose both at the same time! (Like two colors?

Keep the alternative for when it’s time to redecorate.

You have only to change the paint for a coordinated, inexpensive makeover.)

■ Matte floors absorb light and make a room feel cozier.

■ Shiny floor make a room feel airy and elegant.

■ This applies to wood, tile and laminate, too.)

Depending upon your budget, add a simple metal accent on the wall, or install a full medallion in an entryway or special space. Your retailer or designer can put your layout on a graph to scale.

At top: Beehive in Patchwork from Daltile; above: Middleton Square in Steeple Gray from Marazzi

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DEVIN VANCE

tile in style |

HOW TO INTEGRATE MARBLE INTO YOUR INTERIOR DESIGN Devin Vance is the owner and president of Classic Marble Restoration, Inc. He is a member of the Stone Repair Network and alumni of the Natural Stone Restoration Alliance. As a licensed realtor in South Florida, Devin also helps homeowners looking to buy or rent a home.

T

imeless, luxurious, and exquisitely grand, marble has long been viewed as a colonial style flooring laid throughout expansive, vast homes and commercial buildings. One does not often associate or describe this naturally-derived stone as ‘sleek and modern’ but instead is often viewed as simply classic.

Marble is making huge strides in the interior design world and is becoming more popular than ever before. Gracing the centerfolds of countless interior design magazines, marble is being introduced in a new, non-traditional light. Marble is a fantastic addition to any home, as it is durable and long lasting, making it a perfect flooring for families with pets and children.

INNOVATIVE WAYS TO USE MARBLE THROUGHOUT YOUR HOME Marble can be used for so much more than just flooring or for a kitchen counter top. Here are some innovative ways to incorporate marble into your home decor and interior design.

1. O pen Concept Spaces: The ever popular and in-demand ‘open concept’ space can be partitioned beautifully with built-in marble dividers and columns. People love this because the marble is used in a small dose thus not overwhelming.

2. H alf Wall Of Marble: A feature wall that is simply half covered with a marble slab is a delicate way to add a touch of elegance. This is ideal for backsplashes in kitchens as well as creating a focal point for above the stove. Tip: Add a marble-framed mirror over your sink for a touch of stately flair.

3. Small Marble Accents: A touch of marble throughout your home via refined accents is a great way to showcase this natural stone in a low-key way. A simple coffee table or side table that has a marble top is elegant and beautiful while not being overbearing.

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IT’S ALL IN ROOM ACCESSORIES Perhaps you love marble but feel as though placing huge slabs of it throughout your house is far too drastic and cumbersome.

Instead, opt to accessorize with marble. End-table marble lamps in your kids bedroom, master bedroom or family living space gives a wonderful touch of stone without being overly domineering. It is a more subtle way to introduce marble into your interior design without committing to a lot of marble.

Some common marble showpieces are: ■ Tray for perfume and/or fun children’s accessories ■ Desk file folder holder ■ Vase & candle pillar ■ Floating kids book shelf ■ End coffee table ■ Wall clock in the family room

Marble is making huge strides in the interior design world and is becoming more popular than ever before.

■ Coasters Perhaps you are craving the ambiance that marble exudes and the durability it has but are not exactly in the market to indulge in such a huge expense. Adding just a hint of marble throughout your home will satisfy that marble-craving all while staying within your budget. Some commonly used natural stones include marble, onyx, granite, travertine, soapstone, slate and quartzite When people think of marble they often think that it is strictly for flooring, counter tops, and benches.

Marble is being seen as a new fresh trend, forming focal statement pieces that are easy on the eyes without looking bulky and hectic.

Adding marble accents and integrating them into your interior plan is a fantastic way to add a touch of sophistication to any room in your home or office space. ■

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remodeling |

Courtesy of Consumeraffairs.com, A Consumer Unified, LLC property reaching 6 million consumers worldwide every month

BATHROOM REMODELING GUIDE

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athroom remodeling contractors can repair problems, install new fittings and fixtures, improve access and functionality and revamp a bathroom’s appearance. Bathroom remodeling helps homeowners increase the value of their homes while addressing and fixing major bathroom challenges.

The bathroom remodeling process can be extensive, often involving electrical and plumbing work, as well as cosmetic changes. Therefore, careful research should occur before selecting a contractor. It is important to work with a remodeler who will stay on budget and work efficiently to meet your timeline, especially if there’s only one bathroom in the house.

What are different types of bathroom remodels?

Minor cosmetic Minor cosmetic upgrades enhance and update the look of a bath without making any major, expensive changes.

Cosmetic improvements include new light fixtures, wall paint, faucets, showerhead and cabinet knobs and pulls.

Major cosmetic Major cosmetic bath remodeling projects address the same issues as a minor project, but also include new flooring, wall tile and sinks.

Bathroom repairs This type of bathroom remodeling project addresses problems with the current bathroom, fixing problems such as leaky sinks, slow-draining bathtubs, running toilets and cracked floor tiles.

Remodel current bathroom A complete remodeling replaces all existing surfaces, cabinetry, and fittings but typically leaves in place large fixtures, such as the toilet and tub.

Ground-up bathroom remodel When total transformation is required, choose a ground-up approach. The entire bathroom is gutted and rebuilt from scratch. In some cases, this includes removing walls to enlarge the bathroom.

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Below: the many aspects of bathroom remodeling, from repair, reconstruction, tiling, and plumbing, to finish work.

What features matter most?

Pricing Contractor pricing varies widely depending on the type and complexity of the bath-remodeling project. Budgets are also impacted by complications, changing orders and increases in project scope, so consumers need to completely understand pricing before any work begins.

Compare quotes: Bathroom remodeling projects vary in costs, so consumers should compare quotes from a minimum of three contractors.

Speed Bathroom remodelers work on specific project deadlines, but their work speed is impacted by several factors.

Work hours: Consumers need to confirm the daily working hours for the bath remodeler to ensure they’re compatible with the consumer’s schedule.

Contracts A thorough, clearly written contract keeps the contractor and homeowner on the same page with a bathroom remodeling project. The contract will help avoid problems, misunderstandings and overlooked details.

Remodeling work: The consumer and contractor define all work required for the bathroom remodeling project, the materials needed, the design style, paint colors, cabinetry, faucets and many other details. >> Below: Beauty, Interior, Tiling, Kitchen Countertop, Dazzle, 18x27

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remodeling |

When total transformation is required, choose a ground-up approach.

Expertise Bathroom remodelers have different levels of expertise. General contractors and specialty contractors provide consumers with different levels of service.

General contractors: These bathroom remodelers have general knowledge of, and the many skills required for, bathroom remodeling. They typically manage the project from start to finish, and hire and supervise all subcontractors.

Style Most bathroom remodeling services can create any style of new bathroom, but some specialize in certain distinct styles. For example, some contractors might focus on modern designs, while others are experts on historical restorations.

Designers: If consumers are looking for a specific style or custom look, they should work with a bathroom designer.

Interior decorators: Some contractors have in-house interior decorators, or hire them as subcontractors to match the consumer’s preferred bathroom style.

Licensed Most states require licensing for bath-remodeling general contractors, subcontractors, designers and other specialists. Avoid hiring unlicensed contractors.

State required: Consumers need to confirm the contractor has a license if the state requires it. Some states have optional licenses, which can set a bathroom remodeler apart from other companies.

Insured Bathroom remodelers carry commercial or contractor insurance to cover any accidents and problems that may occur during the remodeling project.

Homeowner’s insurance protection: Homeowners should check with their insurance carriers to see if their property is covered while the bathroom is being renovated.

Contractor coverage: Most contractors carry liability insurance — in fact, some states require it. Homeowners should be able to review these policies before they sign a contract.

Communication To avoid any mistakes or misunderstandings, the consumer and contractor must stay in communication throughout the duration of the remodeling project.

Availability: Consumers should look for bathroom remodeling services that are easy to reach — especially after normal working hours — so changes and problems can be quickly addressed. ■

Left above: Florida Tile Granduer Amber; at left: Calabria Bianco from RagnoUSA.

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Bathroom featuring Sideview and Reclamation by Crossville.

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leather kitchens |

Six Easy Pieces…

A trend takes hold!

Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) Showcases Leather in Kitchen Design LEATHER FLOORS AND INSERT PANELS This year, KBIS featured cabinet installations with Formica dECOLeather on panels fabricated by EcoDomo. Thousands of show participants embraced the leather trend, commenting on the elegance, luxury and universal appeal of the leather. The leather inserts were complemented by black leather flooring from EcoDomo’s Rainforest Collection — a collection of leather planks and tiles with an interlocking system.

Shown at right is the Omega kitchen showroom from MasterBrand Cabinets which features custom Ebony Shagreen dECOLeather.

Note that the floor above was photographed on the last day of the show, after thousands of people walked through the space. If you were wondering whether or not you can have leather floors in a kitchen, clearly the answer is yes.

LEATHER SHELVES AND BACK PANELS Elkay showcased the versatility of leather by integrating leather panels and shelves into two displays — one modern and one more traditional.

Elkay featured Mahogany Buffalo dECOLeather with custom stitching and panels by EcoDomo in this island, drawing many curious eyes and compelling many visitors to touch and feel the product for themselves.

Elkay also showcased the modern TV wall/media unit above, which was created using Antique Grey Crocodile dECOLeather for its back panel and shelving.

The Crocodile imprint was sequence matched throughout the back panel and shelves for a smooth, seamless appearance.

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Fabuwood from New Jersey featured a quintessential mix of wood and leather in cabinetry. Their luxurious china cabinet utilized glass shelving, which allowed additional light to come through and illuminate the Mahogany Crocodile dECOLeather.

The recycled leather was used as an in-lay within the sides, top and doors of the cabinet.

LEATHER COUNTERTOPS Hafele showcased its hardware within a manly gentlemen’s closet, which featured an EcoDomo Cordova Nigrine leather countertop complemented by re-purposed black belt panels as drawer fronts. Countertops and belt panels are available directly from EcoDomo.

MasterBrand Cabinets also displayed a leather countertop in another area of their KBIS showroom. The accent countertop above was made with Grey Thunder dECOLeather from Formica.

LEATHER CABINET DOORS Northern Contours introduced recycled leather doors at KBIS for cabinetry. The doors are made with dECOLeather, and have matching or contrasting edge banding. Contact Northern Contours for details about their leather door program.

Element Designs presented recycled leather door inserts, which are designed to fit within any of their profiles. Shown below is a brushed antique aluminum frame, with an Antique Black Walrus dECOLeather 4 mm insert panel. The 4 mm dECOLeather insert panels allow designers and manufacturers to offer leather in lieu of acrylic or glass inserts within aluminum frames.

LEATHER DRAWER BOTTOMS AND BACK SPLASH WALLS MasterBrand Cabinets complemented the leather doors and floor with dECOLeather drawer bottoms of the same style as the doors. Northern Contours displayed their products with a vanity that had an Ivory Buffalo dECOLeather back panel with a custom gold double-stitch detail fabricated by EcoDomo.

LEATHER SLIDING BARN DOOR Hafele showcased its sliding door hardware with a large barn door made with elegant EcoDomo custom Shagreen cushioned panels fabricated by EcoDomo. ■

EcoDomo Leather Surfacing and Fabrication Are you looking to integrate leather in your space or product? Contact EcoDomo for customized solutions with both leather, recycled leather and belt panels. We offer all our leathers in both recycled and standard hide options with similar unique wear properties. We also offer fabrication services such as lamination, stitching, laser engraving and finished leather products, such as insert panels, back panels, tiles, countertops, and table tops in leather. Count on EcoDomo’s solid record of exceptional product performance and service for the past decade across the continents. Contact us at info@ecodomo.com for more information, or call us at 301-424-7717 today for samples for your next project.

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color of the year |

ANNETTE CALLIARI

Color Marketing Group Elects 2017 Color of the Year

I

t’s that time of the year. Be prepared for an onslaught of companies announcing their choice for the 2017 “Color of the Year.” I have just returned from the Color Marketing Group International summit meeting, and as a specifier and a designer, the CMG announcement is the one most meaningful. This premier color forecasting group is a non-profit organization. The members are North American color professionals from a cross-section of industries, including fashion, interior design, automotive, consumer goods, graphic design and many more. CMG’s goal is to provide a vehicle (via local ChromaZone workshops) for color professionals to contribute their local research and future vision as to the direction of color. The result is a collaborative color forecast focused on color, and only color.

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With that in mind, the 2017 key color presented by CMG is called Thrive — a robust, yellow-infused green, born from new growth in nature. As we move towards the next decade, Thrive represents more than just nature. It defines a symbol for growth, strength and endurance. As humans, we are striving to achieve a balance between our driving work ethic and taking time to nurture our spirit. This new color is purposely balanced between light and dark, subtle and strong. It represents a healthy living style: Healthy eating, healthy choices, maintaining our physical energy.

The balance inherent in Thrive earned it the honor of being CMG’s key color for 2017 and beyond. Expect it to be embraced in home design, commercial design, fashion, and graphic design.

Special effects will be added to enhance the color, including metallic, high-gloss and understated matte finishes. â– Images courtesy Color Marketing Group; www.colormarketing.org Annette Callari is an interior design expert with over 20 years of residential and commercial design experience. An allied member of the American Society of Interior Designers and a Chair Holder of the Color Marketing Group International, she is the Southern California commercial sales specialist for Karndean Design Flooring.

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Design. Diversity. Dedication.

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If you believe interior design impacts life in positive and transforming ways, ASID is the association for you.

ASID members are trained to create the spaces where we live, work, play, and heal, and are specialists across multiple disciplines and areas of expertise. Residential, commercial, healthcare, hospitality, entertainment‌whatever your specialty, the diverse ASID community welcomes you.

DISTRIBUTION OF PRACTICE AREAS

Residential: 36%

Multihousing: 11%

Office/ Branded Environment: 15%

Membership in the design industry’s most prestigious society gives you more than professional credibility. It connects you to a network of peers, thought leaders, and luminaries. You will engage in a variety of educational and leadership opportunities while growing in your career and keeping up with the latest trends and innovations. ASID membership will provide the support you need to reach your full potential as a designer and will provide you with the tools you need to make a difference in your world.

Healthcare/ Education/ Government: 20%

Hospitality/ Retail: 18%

ASID.org/belong

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woodn’t it be nice |

BY JASMINE GREY

We Expect it from Nature: Timeless Beauty and New Beginnings.

T

he latest trend in wood flooring is toward vintage and reclaimed wood looks featuring weathered greys and browns, greater character, wider boards and increasingly exotic appearance.

Traditional, tailored golden oak remains the most popular hardwood flooring in America. Brazilian Tigerwood from the Amazon Basin offers a unique option, featuring a golden background and distinctive graining. In turn, a “Domestic Exotic” made from North American yellow birch, offers the same tiger-striped graining from a more abundant and renewable resource.

Imported wood species with their exceptional colors and textures have set the trend in recent years. Amazing blues and espresso browns from Africa, Asia and South America, have added to the customary neutral palette.

Brazilian Cherry and African Bubinga, for example, offer pinkish or russet hues. Some exotics even become more purple with age. Others are known for their unusual graining, flecks and rays. >>

Mannington Hardwood Rock Creek Bear.

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Linen from the Artisan Collection by Kahrs

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woodn’t it be nice | The news today is the exotic looks from domestic species, stained to look like gorgeous exotic varieties but made from renewable domestics like birch and ash.

With the inception of tough, responsible forestry practices worldwide, it is important to note that American hardwood forests are renewing, abundant and sustainable. In fact, the quantity of hardwoods in American forests today is actually 90 percent greater than it was 50 years ago, producing oxygen and reducing greenhouse gases!

Reclaimed wood from old ships, barns and other structures are also coveted for modern wood floors. Exceptional visual effects can also be achieved with special, expensive cuts like quarter-sawn, to reveal tight grains that are straight, wavy or interlocking.

Distressed looks on wider planks, most often in deeper colors, are very popular. Character marks are caused by hand-scraping or wire brushing. Wider boards with rustic or Old World looks have tended to feature more satiny finishes, but higher glosses and burnished glazes are still popular.

When choosing wood, ask your flooring representative about wear layers, joint and seam integrity, and longer warranties. Ask about recent technologies, such as aluminum oxide and acrylic impregnated finishes, especially for challenging high traffic areas.

With advances in the industry — burgeoning options in colors, finishes, sizes, patterns and even species — it’s good to know some things about a wood floor never change.

Like radiant beauty and lasting value. ■

At right: Willamsburg 5" engineered hardwood in Espresso by Shaw; right bottom: Signature Scrape Forest Land Oak by Bruce Hardwood. Opposite page top left: Timberbrushed hardwood from Armstrong Flooring; opposite page top right: Meadowbrook Tigerwood by Mullican

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Trend-Leading Design New Woodland Relics™ (at right) captures the essence of reclaimed, weathered wood, as random and varied as nature itself. Every plank is uniquely crafted using hand-staining, sanding and woodworking techniques that showcase abundant textures and tones. The collection includes a varied sampling of multiple species, widths, colors and textures, all of which are mixed together in random fashion to create a highly custom look. In every box, there is a unique combination of Birch, Hickory and Oak species, varied width (3", 5", and 7½"), long length (up to 7') planks and beautiful surface treatments including Wire Brushed, Scraped, Straight and Circular Saw Marks and Tool Mark Texture, to create a truly one-of-a-kind floor. Woodland Relics offers a Lifetime Limited Residential Warranty and a 10-year Limited Commercial Warranty.

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woodn’t it be nice |

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Fashion Meets Function Acrylic-infused wide-plank flooring that is fashionable enough for your home, but built for commercial spaces!

Nydree Flooring introduces a new handcrafted product that brings on-trend, design-driven, real wood flooring to any commercial space. Nydree Flooring raises the bar for design-driven commercial flooring again with the first wide-plank, acrylic-infused option for the industry.

Traditionally featured in residential spaces, 7.5" wider handcrafted planks are a style trend that make spaces look larger and more modern. This innovative wide plank product line combines the durability of its signature acrylic-infusion technology and latest design trend of the wide-plank product.

Nydree Flooring’s wide-plank option is available in 5 colors of Plainsawn White Oak, one of the top products for contemporary commercial spaces. Plainsawn White Oak wide-plank is popular among hospitality, retail, restaurants and other commercial developments. Consumers continue to desire a product with a residential feel in their commercial spaces, and Nydree has delivered this stylish acrylic-infused, wide-plank option as a result.

Nydree’s namesake horse farm in Albemarle County, VA, is known for its beauty and strength, which is paralleled in each handcrafted plank of wood flooring. Like all of Nydree Flooring’s products, this new wide-plank flooring option is made of real, natural wood with an acrylic-infused top layer. Its signature acrylic-infusion process produces 300 percent more durable flooring than standard wood. ■

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Magzter is also available on storefronts like the AMAZON App and Huawei App Stores.

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BLOOMSBURG CARPET 212.688.7447 www.bloomsburgcarpet.com www.asid.org BONAKEMI ARMSTRONG FLOOR www.bona.com PRODUCTS, BR-111 ® ® which include Bruce , Armstrong 800.525.BR111 and Robbins®, offer hardwood, resilwww.br111.com ient, laminate, ceramics and Genuine BRINTONS Linoleum™. To see products, go to www.brintons.com www.armstrong.com BRITISH WOOL FLORIDA TILE INC. MARKETING BOARD 800.789.TILE www.britishwool.org www.floridatile.com CAMPAIGN FOR WOOL HEALTHIER CHOICE www.campaignforwool.org http://www.healthierchoice.com When purchasing your next CAPRIfloor, CORKask about credit KARNDEAN www.capricork.com promotions offered by your specialty flooring retailer. No DESIGN FLOORING CARLISLE WIDE PLANK FLOORING longer is credit merely a way to spread out payments. www.karndean.com 800-595-9663 US FLOORS/ It’s become something far different—a money managewww.wideplankflooring.com NATURAL CORK CO. STAINMASTER™ ment tool for today’s familyCARPENTER chief financial officer. More 800.404.2675 Carpet Cushion System than a way to manage payments, credit represents the www.naturalcork.com www.carpenter.com www.usfloors.com CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME opportunity to buy better merchandise, especially when VINYLASA www.carpetone.com the timing’s right. www.vinylasa.com CARPET & RUG INSTITUTE Flooring is an investment as much as it is fashion www.carpet-rug.com WORLD FLOOR COVERING ASSOCIATION (WFCA) COLORstructure.

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INFORMATION CENTER COLONIAL MILLS (CMI) www.hardwoodinfo.com Your project will likely 800.343.9339 begin with a budget. So, AMERICAN OLEAN www.colonialmills.com with fl ooring comprising as much as a third of one’s 888.AOT.TILE FLOORING renovation cost, your credit COLUMBIA plan can actually keep costs www.americanolean.com www.columbiaflooring.com AMTICO contained by helping to track and limit expenditures.

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SHOPPING FOR NEW FLOORS?

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A BUYER’S GUIDE DREAMWEAVER CARPET www.dwcarpet.com ECODOMO LLC 301.424.7717 www.EcoDomo.com EGE SERAMIK www.egeseramik.com ELDORADO STONE www.eldoradostone.com ELIANE CERAMIC TILES www.elianeusa.com EMMA GARDNER DESIGN, LLC www.emmagardnerdesign.com EMIL CERAMICA www.emilamerica.com ENGINEERED FLOORS LLC www.engineeredfloorsllc.com EPRO TILE www.eprotile.com EXCELSIOR WOOD PRODUCTS, LLC 845.339.6630 www.excelsiorwood.com EXPANKO www.expanko.com 800.345.6202 FABRICA INTERNATIONAL 800.854.0357 www.fabrica.com FAUS GROUP INC. 888.231.3287 www.fausinc.com FCITS www.fcits.org FLOOR COVERINGS INTERNATIONAL Nicole Perry — 770-992-3913 To Find a FCI Franchise near you: www.floorcoveringsinternational.com FLOORMAX DIRECT 800.423.1823 www.floormaxdirect.com FORBO LINOLEUM 866.MARMOLEUM www.themarmoleumstore.com FORMICA www.formicaflooring.com FORTIS ARBOR www.fluxstudios.com GOODWIN HEARTPINE www.heartpine.com GODFREY HIRST 800.480.7135 www.godfreyhirstusa.com HB FULLER Construction Products www.groutboost.com HELIOS CARPET www.helioscarpet.com HOMERWOOD www.homerwood.com HOMESPICE DÉCOR www.homespicedecor.com HOME LEGEND 877.630.1800 www.homelegend.com IDG • INTERNATIONAL DESIGN GUILD • JUST SHORN 800.205.4345 www.justshorn.com www.design-guild.com www.dabbiericollection.com blog.dabbiericollection.com

find flooring fast ILVA www.ilva.com.ar IMAGINE TILE www.imaginetile.com INTERCERAMIC USA, Inc. 214.503.5500 www.interceramicusa.com INTERNATIONAL VINYL CORPORATION 706.278.8008 www.ivcgroup.com IVC US www.Ivcfloors.com JMISH CARPETS www.jmishinc.com JOHNSONITE www.johnsonite.com JUST SHORN www.justshorn.com KAHRS INTERNATIONAL 404.206.9910 www.kahrs.com KAINDL www.kaindl.com KARASTAN www.karastan.com KARLSON HARDWOOD FLOORS 404.422.2264 www.karlsonshardwood.com KATHY IRELAND www.kathyireland.com KORUS –NYDREE WOOD www.koruswoodflooring.com KRONOTEX USA www.kronotexusa.com LAND PORCELANICO www.landporcelanico.com LAUFEN 800.321.0684 www.laufenusa.com LAUZON DISTINCTIVE HARDWOOD FLOORING 877.427.5144 www.lauzonltd.com LEA CERAMICHE www.ceramichelea.com LEXMARK Lexmark flooring LILYWORK CERAMIC ORNAMENT www.lilywork.com LIORA MANNE www.lioramanne.com LUMBER LIQUIDATORS 1-800-HARDWOOD www.lumberliquidators.com MANNINGTON MILLS 856.935.3000 www.mannington.com MARBLE INSTITUTE OF AMERICA www.marble-institute.com MARAZZI USA www.marazzitile.com MASLAND CARPETS & RUGS 800.633.0468 www.maslandcarpets.com MEDITERRANEA 305.718.5091 www.mediterranea-usa.com METROFLOR www.metroflorusa.com

MILLIKEN CARPET & RUGS 800.528.8453 www.millikencarpet.com MINWAX® 800.523.9299 www.minwax.com MIRAGE HARDWOOD FLOORS FROM BOA FRANC www.miragefloors.com MOHAWK CREDIT 800.2MOHAWK www.mohawkflooring.com MOHAWK INDUSTRIES Smart Strand 800.2MOHAWK www.mohawkflooring.com/green MOMENI www.momeni.com MOTAWI TILEWORKS 734 213 0017 www.motawi.com MP GLOBAL www.quietwalk.com MULLICAN 800.844.6356 www.mullicanflooring.com NAFCO by Tarkett www.nafco.com NALFA www.nalfa.com NATIONAL WOOD FLOORING ASSOCIATION www.woodfloors.org NATURE’S PALETTE www.TheColorWhisperer.com NORTH AMERICAN LAMINATE FLOORING ASSOCIATION (NALFA) www.nalfa.com NOURISON www.nourison.com OCEANSIDE GLASS www.glasstile.com OLD AMERICAN LUMBER OSHKOSH DESIGNS oshkoshdesigns.com OVERNITE CAPITAL 800.957.4309 www.overnitecapital.com PARTERRE FLOORING www.parterreflooring.com PERGO 800.337.3746 www.pergo.com PLANETA PEDRA www.planetapedra.com QUICK-STEP, INC www.quick-step.com ROGER OATES www.rogeroates.com RUGSTREET 480.635.8643 www.rugstreet.com

SAINT GAUDENS METAL ARTS 760.891.0300 www.vsgmetalarts.com SHAW INDUSTRIES/ SHAW LIVING www.shawinc.com SAFAVIEH 866.422.9070 www.safavieh.com SCHUMACHER www.fsco.com SENECA TILES www.senecatiles.com SHAMROCK PLANK FLOORING 866.473.3765 www.shamrockplankflooring.com SHAW FLOORS 1.800.441.7429 www.shawfloors.com SICIS The Art factory www.sicis.com SOUTHWIND CARPET MILLS (a division of Cherokee Carpet Ind.) www.southwindcarpet.com 800.272.2808 SPHINX, DIV. OF ORIENTAL WEAVERS 800.832.8020 www.owsphinx.com STAINMASTER CARPETS STAINMASTER CUSHION 800.438.7668 www.stainmaster.com SUSTAINABLE LUMBER COMPANY www.Sustainablelumberco.com STANTON CARPET 516.822.5878 www.stantoncarpet.com TARKETT www.tarkett.com TERAGREN Fine Bamboo Flooring, Panels & Veneer www.teragren.com 800.929.6333 TERRA LEGNO (800) 393-7424 www.terralegno.com TILE CIRCLE www.tilecircle.com TILE OF SPAIN® 305.446.4387 www.spaintiles.info TORLY’S www.torlys.com 800.461.2573 TOUCH UP PRODUCTS www.exactmatchwoodtouchup.com 1.855.YOU.TOUCHUP

TUFTEX CARPETS OF CALIFORNIA The Premier Carpet of Shaw Floors 877.224.7429 www.tuftexcarpets.com UNIQUE CARPETS www.uniquecarpets.com VILLEROY & BOCH www.villeroy-boch.com WALKER ZANGER www.walkerzanger.com WEAR-DATED CARPET FIBER 800.845.5270 www.weardated.com WELLMADE PERFORMANCE FLOORING www.wellmadefloors.com WHITE OAK CARPET MILLS www.whiteoakcarpet.com WICANDERS www.wicanders.com WOOLS OF NEW ZEALAND www.woolpremierpartner.com www.wonz.com WUNDAWEVE COLLECTION

By Mohawk 800.2.MOHAWK www.mohawk-flooring.com YAREMA MARQUETRY www.yaremamarquetry.com YERRA RUGS www.yerrarugs.com

INDUSTRY PARTNER

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Bathroom Remodeling Services Founded in 1999, Bath Planet is a designer, manufacturer, seller and installer of bathroom remodeling solutions for consumers. Bath Planet takes pride in being one-stop hub to meet customer needs completely and efficiently. (844) 792-2052

The Home Advisor website allows homeowners to search through its directory to find the most appropriate contractors for any job. Search by service and zip code and browse through customer reviews to choose the best. (844) 326-6657 Founded in 1984, Bath Fitter makes it easy for homeowners and commercial properties to update their old and worn bathtubs. Bath Fitter manufactures and installs custom acrylic bathtubs that fit snugly over existing tub surfaces.

(888) 674-7956 Founded in 1979, Re-Bath is one of the world's leading bathroom remodeling specialists. Headquartered in Arizona, the company has over 200 franchise locations, and partners with dozens of national bathroom product vendors.

(877) 611-1297 Granite Transformations delivers a faster, more affordable remodeling process.

The innovative, mess-free process of fitting new materials for vanities, shower interiors and tiles over existing surfaces can be finished in a day. www.granitetransformations.com Thumbtack is a directory resource for people searching for professional services in their area. Search simply by service name and zip code and instantly be introduced to a range of relevant services in your area. www.thumbtack.com One Week Bath is a bathroom remodeling company serving homeowners in southern California. The company saves the homeowner any hassle by bringing its showroom to the client, using quality materials and no sub-contractors. www.oneweekbath.com Jackson Design and Remodeling is a San Diego-based remodeling agency.. The company combines design and construction operations under one roof, leading to quick, seamless jobs. www.jacksondesignandremodeling.com John Moore Services is a Houston company specializing in residential plumbing, heating and electrical. Founded in 1965, the company has grown from a one-man operation into a large team of hand-picked professionals. www.johnmooreservices.com Innovate Building Solutions has over 28 years of experience in bathroom remodeling in the Cleveland area. With an honest and personal approach, Innovate Building Solutions take pride in using high-quality building materials. www.innovatebuildingsolutions.com 56

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